In need of a new movie? Looking for something much more fun than the average box-office flick? Want a guaranteed out-of-this-world soundtrack? Check out a recently remastered Stop Making Sense, the iconic Talking Heads concert film.
After watching the movie with my brother this past weekend, we both have unashamedly admitted to the concert’s album being on repeat. Originally released in 1984, Stop Making Sense hit the theaters and wowed fans, earning the steep—but warranted—title of “greatest concert film ever made.” But nearly forty years later, it’s back and better than ever, ready for eager audiences young and old. Turns out high definition can make all the difference.
In March of 2023, A24 obtained the rights and restored the vintage film. In early September, the band and the studio excitedly announced its re-release. Now, it’s being shown in theaters across the country.
Even if you’ve never heard of the electric Talking Heads, with eccentric choreography, infectiously fun music, and a stage presence to rival any Eras show, it’s sure to be a great time.
The Music
Ever wondered what would happen if you gave instruments to a group of people so enigmatically groovy that you suspect they’re extraterrestrial? Talking Heads is exactly that. Comprised of David Byrne on vocals, Chris Frantz on drums, Tina Weymouth on bass, and Jerry Harrison on guitar. The band took the world by storm, emerging into the music scene with a brand-new sound.
Talking Heads is usually regarded as one of the “founding fathers” of new wave music. As their discography was a healthy mixture of funk, rock, punk, and a little bit of pop. Their avant-garde sound quickly garnered a huge fanbase that skyrocketed them into popularity. With hits ranging from “Once in a Lifetime” to “This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody)”, it was pretty certain you’d find yourself serenaded by Byrne the next time you turned your radio on.
Their career spanned less than twenty years, from 1977 to 1991, but in that short time, Talking Heads cemented themselves as icons. Despite breaking up, they’re still regarded as one of the greats in rock and roll fame. A unique mixture of instrumentals combined with David Byrne’s unique voice makes for unforgettable albums.
The Film
In 1983, Talking Heads pooled together their own funds to produce a concert film during the tour for their newest album Speaking in Tongues. The band and crew, led by director Jonathan Demme, filmed Stop Making Sense over the span of four live shows, all at the Pantages Theatre in Los Angeles.
Featured players include the main four of the band, accompanied by Bernie Worrell on keyboard, Steve Scales on percussion, Alex Weir on guitar, and iconic background vocals from Lynn Mabry and Ednah Holt.
Aside from the stellar performances, the doc shows an extensive peek into the psyche of Talking Heads’. Stop Making Sense combines music and imagery to produce a film that’s both visually and audibly appealing. The eighteen songs performed range from their first single “Psycho Killer” (1977) all the way up to their most recent album Speaking in Tongues (1983).
The Moves
But what would a performance be without choreography? These were the exact thoughts running through Talking Heads’—pun intended—heads. And so they delivered.
Byrne lights up the stage with shenanigans ranging from running laps around the stage to serenading a floor lamp. Weymouth taps her feet to the beat in an impressively hypnotic rhythm. Frantz is constantly singing along while he drums from above. Harrison donned in a very 80s Canadian Tuxedo, dances with the background singers all while casually strumming guitar.
Their synchronized theatrics may work to emulate a performance that’s been practiced over and over, but you can tell that the band is really just having fun. They’re constantly laughing and smiling along, seemingly still impressed that an entire audience is watching and dancing along.
Their energy is electric, contagious, and completely genuine. Plus, it makes for some pretty iconic shots. Who doesn’t love an oversized suit?
Stop Making Sense is the labor of love from an intriguingly transcendent Talking Heads. Forty years have passed since its original release, but the film continues to stand the test of time. Each song, each beat, and each move is a perfect testament to the power of a band that embraces the odd.
The untraditional group has built a career out of having unadulterated & contagious fun, so it’s no surprise moviegoers across the country want to experience the electricity of Stop Making Sense for themselves.
As an avid fan who grew up listening to their music, I was really excited to finally watch the film I’d heard so much about. To say it surpassed my expectations would be an understatement. Grainy YouTube clips definitely can’t do it justice.
On the big screen is just exactly how Stop Making Sense should be consumed. One minute you’re handing an usher tickets and buying greasy popcorn, and the next you’ve found yourself transported right back to 1984. The movie immerses us into a zany world filled with boomboxes and lampshades and everything that follows from a band who’s just here to have fun.
Where To Watch
Want to get a taste of the magic of Stop Making Sense for yourself? It’s currently available for viewing in theaters across the country. I highly recommend you buy tickets and maybe bring a friend or two. Big suit optional.
