Watch Bob Dylan: Trouble No More - A Musical Film

Bob Dylan: Trouble No More - A Musical Film is a documentary that chronicles Bob Dylan's Christian phase in the late 1970s and early 1980s, when he began to sing explicitly religious songs and perform gospel music. Directed by Jennifer Lebeau, the film is comprised mainly of footage from Dylan's 1980 tours and showcases his live performances of Christian-themed songs such as "Gotta Serve Somebody," "When You Gonna Wake Up," and "Slow Train." The musical performances are interspersed with sermons given by actor Michael Shannon, who provides context for Dylan's religious transformation and how it affected his music and image.

The film has a strong message of spirituality and redemption, and at times, the live performances feel like a spiritual awakening within themselves. In one particularly powerful moment, Dylan begins to sway back and forth as he sings "Solid Rock", a song about standing firmly in one's faith.

Throughout the film, Dylan's band plays beautifully and showcases their immense talent. Each member is given time to shine in sultry solos or driving groove sections. Watching them play is a treat as one can feel both the raw energy within the music and the spiritual connection Dylan and his bandmates had with each other.

The documentary also features behind-the-scenes footage of Dylan's rehearsals and interactions with his band members. The glimpses of the legendary songwriter during soundchecks give the moviegoers a feeling of intimacy with the artist, as if they are peeking backstage at a real-life concert.

The film is highlighted by Dylan's dress, which is inspired by the gospel motif. He dons a suit that looks like a preacher's garment, complete with a hat and beaded necklace. The choice of clothing seemed effortless and added to the realism of this powerful documentary.

Bob Dylan: Trouble No More - A Musical Film manages to capture a period of Dylan's life that many people were unaware happened. Many people saw the shift as out of character for the musician and a way to capitalize on a new audience. However, watching this documentary, it is evident that Dylan’s exploration of faith was a genuine experience that he felt compelled to share through the medium of music.

A notable aspect of the film is the cinematography. The lighting of the concert shots is astounding, with a mix of traditional lighting and stage smoke, casting an ambiance that transforms each shot into its own individual moment. The work done on the visuals help set the tone for the film, bringing it to an entirely new level.

Furthermore, Shannon’s sermons provide insightful context, both for Dylan’s religious beliefs, and the popular opinions that swirled around his conversion. Shannon’s readings act as a pause button within the film’s music, creating a moment to reflect and think about the tracks.

In the end, the movie succeeds in its objective of showcasing Dylan during his most controversial phase. The film is a powerful tribute to the depth of Dylan's faith and the impressive music he created in the process. In a time where faith was not widely accepted, Dylan's conviction and the music he made inspired a new root that was both pious and thrilling. Bob Dylan: Trouble No More - A Musical Film is a must-watch for fans of the artist, fans of the period's gospel music, and for those who enjoy themes of redemption and faith.