True Stories
Director: David Byrne
Actors: David Byrne, John Goodman, Annie McEnroe
PlotIn a fictional Texas town preparing for its 150th anniversary, a bemused visitor explores the lives of the quirky inhabitants. The visitor, who serves as a narrator, observes their day-to-day activities and unique celebrations, providing commentary on the town's eccentric charm. Among the townspeople are Louis Fyne, a loveable but lonely clean room technician searching for a wife, and a rich woman who refuses to leave her bed despite being perfectly healthy. The town is bustling with preparations for a parade celebrating its sesquicentennial, and the visitor interviews various residents, delving into their whimsical ways and philosophical musings.
Through the visitor's eyes, the audience meets characters like the Lying Woman, who spins tall tales about herself; Mr. Tucker, an entrepreneur; and Ramon, a man who can "hear" the city's wires. The content showcases a series of loosely connected vignettes that paint a broader picture of small-town life with an offbeat beauty and rhythm. As the big event draws nearer, the townsfolk's stories become interwoven, illuminating the shared humanity amidst their eccentricities. The narrative balances humor and heart, capturing the essence of American life with an off-kilter lens. As the celebration approaches, the visitor's perspective serves as a bridge between the residents' peculiarities and the universal truths binding them.
Writers: Stephen Tobolowsky, Beth Henley, David Byrne
Release Date: 10 Oct 1986
Runtime: 89 min
Rating: PG
Country: United States
Language: English
Home Video Reviews
David Byrne's 'True Stories,' revived in an excellent 4K Criterion Blu-ray, offers a mind-bending experience with rich bonus features and a dedicated soundtrack CD.
Read our review of True Stories Blu-ray DigiPack to find out more