Watch Bob Dylan - 1978 - 1989: Both Ends Of The Rainbow

Bob Dylan - 1978 - 1989: Both Ends Of The Rainbow is a 2008 documentary film directed by Joel Gilbert. The story of this film is told through the eyes of Josh Abbey, a drummer in Bob Dylan's touring band from 1978 to 1981. The documentary focuses on the years of Bob Dylan's career from 1978 to 1989 when he made a major musical shift towards a more gospel and Christian-inspired sound.

The film explores Dylan's creative process during this time, offering insight into the motivations behind his musical output. It features interviews with many of Dylan's collaborators, including Chuck Plotkin, who produced several of Dylan's albums during this period. Additionally, some footage of Toby Scott, who served as the engineer and mixer on many of Dylan's recordings from this era, is shown.

The documentary features many interviews with the key players during Dylan's career transition. It delves into the backlash that he received from fans and the media for his newfound faith and his decision to incorporate gospel themes into his music. It also explores the reactions of his religious followers and the impact that his work had on the Christian music community.

The film is a treasure trove of historical footage and photographs that document Dylan's prolific career from this era. Archive footage of Dylan performing in large stadiums is matched with footage from smaller church venues, underscoring the changes that he was going through in the public eye. This change in Dylan's focus is well-captured in the film, showcasing the singer's artistry and range over a decade of dramatic changes.

The most interesting thing about the film is the way in which it blends both the historic and the personal. Not only does the documentary offer context for Dylan's creative choices, but it also delves into the more intimate aspects of his personal life. These discussions focus on Dylan's relationships with his band, his wife and his family, and how his faith played a role in these relationships.

The film doesn't offer anything too new or groundbreaking in the story of Dylan, but it does shine a new light on the way that Dylan's particular brand of spirituality was a driving force behind the trajectory of his career. It also highlights the contrast between the public backlash and Dylan's own internal journey during this era.

Overall, Bob Dylan - 1978 - 1989: Both Ends Of The Rainbow is a richly detailed, well-executed documentary that examines an often-overlooked chapter in Bob Dylan's career. It's a gripping look at one of the greatest musical talents of the twentieth century at a pivotal moment in his career. It is a must-watch for all Bob Dylan fans and anyone interested in the evolution of music in the 1980s.

Bob Dylan - 1978 - 1989: Both Ends Of The Rainbow is a 2008 concerts movie with a runtime of 2 hours. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1.