Sign O’ the Times, Abba: The Movie, Don’t Look Back

On June 8, the Northwest Film Forum begins screening a trio of rock movies on their respective anniversaries— Sign O’ the Times, directed by and starring Prince; Abba: the Movie; and D.A. Pennebaker’s legendary cinema verite, Don’t Look Back. This last work captures the trials and tribulations of a young Bob Dylan on his 1965 tour of England.

A rare treat for both film and music aficionados, Don’t Look Back follows the folksinger into situations unseen by folk fans. Through confrontations, spontaneous music, hotel rooms and concert halls, the voyeuristic camera keeps rolling. In low light situations the film is pushed, which has the effect of revealing its granular structure. The grainy look, the swish pan, and the unedited refocus imply a journalistic integrity, techniques soon employed by other producers to suggest authenticity.

Dylan arrives in Europe as a new and curious cultural phenomenon. The press doesn’t know what to make of him. He doesn’t seem to know what to make of them. As a consequence, his press interviews are invariably contentious and entertaining. It’s the same aloof Dylan we know today, weary of inane queries seeking to define him in a context he finds wanting, if not repulsive. This is not to say he didn’t use the media, he just didn’t let the media use him.

In a business where the word classic is applied to movies that haven’t even been screened, Don’t Look Back is the real deal. Dylan’s songs were fresh and a young Joan Baez, who accompanied him to Europe, sounds as good in a motel room as in a recording studio. Both add priceless complements to Pennebaker’s groundbreaking film.

Sign O’ the Times, directed by Prince, was released before he dropped his name (and took it back), and after his impressive film, Purple Rain. Basically a concert movie, it effectively captures a great performer in his element, for the most part absent the interwoven dramatic themes of his past efforts. However, the most memorable performance comes from drummer and singer, Sheila E. It’s difficult to remember anyone who plays the drums with more vibrancy. When she trades places with Prince, fronting the group, she steals the show. Complete with backup singers, exceptional choreography, all supported by impeccably tight horn and rhythm sections, Sign O’ the Times wants for neither talent nor energy, especially on the big screen with a theater sound system.

ABBA: The Movie, which I did not preview, includes a subplot concerning a disk jockey who is trying to catch the group for an interview. There’s footage of backstage shenanigans, adoring fans and of course the band in concert. Songs include “Take a Chance on Me,” “Fernando,” “Dancing Queen,” and “Mamma Mia” among others.

Sign O’ the Times plays June 8 to June 10. Abba: The Movie plays June 11 to June 14. Don’t Look Back plays June 15 - 21. Showtimes are 7 p.m. and 9:15 p.m. Tickets are $8.50 ($5 for NFF members). Northwest Film Forum is located at 1515 12th Ave. on Capitol Hill.