Stop Making Sense
Director: Jonathan Demme
Actors: David Byrne, Bernie Worrell, Alex Weir
PlotThe film opens with a stark, minimalist stage setup as frontman David begins performing solo with just an acoustic guitar and a boombox. As the concert progresses, the rest of the band members gradually join him on stage, and the set pieces and lighting evolve in sync with the growing musical complexity. Each song introduces additional instrumentation and more elaborate stage design, creating a dynamic and visually engaging experience. The footage captures the energy and creativity of the live performance, emphasizing the musicians' synergy and the intricate choreography of their movements.
The film's structure is driven by the sequential addition of band members and instruments, which reflects both a literal and metaphorical layering of sound and artistry. The camera work and editing are as rhythmic and syncopated as the music, offering close-ups of the performers and wide shots of the stage, immersing the audience in the concert atmosphere. The narrative is essentially a visual and auditory exploration of a live musical event, showcasing the spontaneity and innovation of the band. The concert experience culminates in an impressive climactic sequence that underscores the band's unique style and the director's visionary approach to capturing the essence of live performance.
Writers: Jonathan Demme, Talking Heads
Release Date: 22 Sep 2023
Runtime: 88 min
Rating: PG
Country: United States
Language: English, French
Home Video Reviews
An exemplary presentation of a seminal concert film, 'Stop Making Sense' offers unparalleled audio quality and essential viewing for any music enthusiast.
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Talking Heads' sui generis concert shines in this Blu-ray release; while some may miss the stereo track and surround mixes, its technical merits and supplements are outstanding.
Read our review of Stop Making Sense Blu-ray A24 Shop Exclusive DigiBook to find out more
Stop Making Sense shines with its 4K Dolby Vision transfer and terrific Atmos track, despite missing lossless stereo, making it a highly recommended release by A24.
Read our review of Stop Making Sense 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray A24 Shop Exclusive DigiBook 4K Ultra HD to find out more