In “Masked and Anonymous,” a singer named Jack Fate, portrayed by Bob Dylan, is released from prison to perform in a benefit concert amid a chaotic and unspecified political landscape. The movie weaves through a series of enigmatic encounters and performances, featuring a diverse cast and a soundtrack rich with Dylan’s music, including tracks from his album “Time Out Of Mind.” Despite its star-studded ensemble, the film’s abstract narrative and Dylan’s inscrutable performance render it a polarizing piece, with critics and audiences divided on its merits.
Length: 1h 52m
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Music
This Title is: Visionary, Indulgent, Cryptic
Masked and Anonymous is New on Apple TV in Canada!
Trailer
Cast
- Bob Dylan as Jack Fate
- Jeff Bridges as Tom Friend
- Penélope Cruz as Pagan Lace
Parental Guidance
Maturity Rating: PG-13 The film’s content and thematic elements suggest a mature audience.
Content includes complex themes and potentially challenging material for younger viewers.
Trivia
- Music from Bob Dylan’s career is prominently featured, with “Time Out Of Mind” tracks like “Dirt Road Blues” and “Not Dark Yet” used in the film.
- The film was given poor reviews upon release, with a Rotten Tomatoes approval rating of 24% and a Metacritic score indicating generally unfavorable reviews.
- Despite initial negative reception, the film has been revisited by some critics, with Glenn Kenny re-evaluating it positively for its Blu-ray release in 2020.
Our Review
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“Masked and Anonymous” presents a unique, albeit confusing, narrative enriched with Bob Dylan’s musical genius. The film’s abstract storytelling and Dylan’s enigmatic performance create a divisive viewing experience. While some appreciate the film’s artistic approach and rich soundtrack, others find it incoherent and self-indulgent. The ensemble cast delivers notable performances, yet the film’s overall reception remains mixed, reflecting its unconventional approach to cinema.
Critic Scores
Masked and Anonymous has received a mixed review by the critics.