Watch It's About You

It's About You is a music documentary film from 2010 that follows the journey of musician T Bone Burnett and his collaboration with Bob Dylan on his Across The Borderline tour. The film is directed by Kurt Markus and features cinematography by Markus and his son Ian. It's About You is an unconventional documentary that combines elements of concert footage, interviews, and impressionist visuals to create a unique cinematic experience.

The film opens with footage of T Bone Burnett in the recording studio, where he discusses the creative process behind his music. The filmmakers then join Burnett as he embarks on a road trip across the American South, traveling from Memphis to New Orleans to join Bob Dylan on his All Along The Watchtower tour. Along the way, Burnett reflects on his own journey as a musician and the inspirations that have shaped his work.

As Burnett and his crew make their way to the first stop on Dylan's tour, they encounter a variety of fascinating characters who represent the diverse cultures that thrive in the American South. From old blues musicians to young hip-hop artists, the film showcases a wide range of musical styles and personalities. In between these encounters, Burnett muses on the importance of staying true to one's own creative impulses and respecting the traditions of the past.

Once he reaches Dylan's tour, Burnett dives headfirst into the world of concert production. The film captures the frenzied energy of backstage preparations, set changes, and sound checks that are crucial to the success of any live music event. Meanwhile, Dylan himself appears only sparingly in the film, but the glimpses we do get of him onstage show a man who is still passionate and lively despite his many years in the business.

Throughout It's About You, the Markus' cinematography is a constant source of wonder. Whether they are focusing on the natural beauty of the landscapes Burnett travels through, the rusted-out relics of forgotten industrial towns, or the neon lights of Nashville's honky-tonk bars, the filmmakers always keep their eye on the poetry in the everyday. Some of the film's most striking moments are its impressionistic interludes, in which images of clouds, waterfalls, and sunsets are matched with Burnett's musings on the nature of creativity and the human experience.

The documentary also boasts a powerful and diverse musical soundtrack. In addition to featuring performances by Burnett and Dylan, the filmmakers include recordings of artists like Captain Beefheart, Bob Wills, and John Fahey, drawing connections between these musicians and Burnett's own work. The film also includes original compositions by Burnett, including the hauntingly beautiful "Kill Zone" and "Palestine, Texas," which reflect his deep connection to the landscapes and people of the American South.

It's About You is ultimately a testament to the continuing power of music and the creative spirit. It is a film that celebrates the ways in which music can connect us to our past, inspire us in the present, and point us towards a better future. Through its combination of stunning visuals, insightful interviews, and electrifying performance footage, the film invites audiences to join T Bone Burnett and his collaborators on a journey through some of the most evocative and soulful landscapes of the American South.

In conclusion, It's About You is a must-watch for any music lover, particularly those interested in the history and culture of the American South. The Markus' sumptuous visuals and Burnett's candid reflections make this an intimate and moving exploration of the creative process and the human spirit. Whether you are a fan of Bob Dylan, T Bone Burnett, or simply great music in general, you will find much to love about this extraordinary documentary.

It's About You is a 2012 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 26 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.4 and a MetaScore of 55.