Welcome to Documentary History and Aesthetics! Today, we dive into the topic of authenticity in documentary filmmaking. Consider Bob Dylan, a cultural enigma whose persona defies categorization. In our pursuit as filmmakers to capture truth, how do we navigate the complexities of portraying individuals like Dylan, who resist easy classification?

In this unit, we explore the interplay of performance and authenticity using "Dont Look Back" as our lens. This verité-style documentary challenges traditional notions of truth-telling, presenting Dylan's public and private personas in a nuanced manner. Through encounters with journalists and private moments, the film unveils Dylan's struggle with fame and authenticity.

As we dissect scenes from "Dont Look Back," we confront the question: How do filmmakers balance authenticity with the performative nature of their subjects? Join us as we unravel the intricacies of truth-telling in documentary filmmaking.