Stop Making Sense 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The 4K UHD video presentation of "Stop Making Sense," expertly handled by A24, features a HEVC / H.265 encoded 2160p transfer in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio. This release, sourced from a pristine 35mm negative discovered at the MGM film library, surpasses previous versions, including the Palm Pictures release. The restoration process, led by American Zoetrope’s James Mockoski, was relatively straightforward due to the negative's excellent condition. Shot on Panavision cameras using spherical lenses by Jordan Cronenweth, the film showcases enhanced palette and detail levels significantly improved by both Dolby Vision and HDR10.

The transfer presents notable improvements such as reduced grain noise and exceptional detail clarity, especially in the shadowy, intricately staged performances captured vividly by Dolby Vision HDR. Previous home video editions often struggled with murky shadow details and skewed coloring, issues now rectified in this 4K version. Each lighting change, integral to Cronenweth’s scheme, from pitch-black shadows to pops of color like Frantz’s robin-egg-blue shirt, is faithfully rendered.

Fans will appreciate the film’s newfound clarity and the authentic replication of the theater experience. Grain remains present, maintaining the filmic texture, occasionally noticeable in certain panning shots but not distracting. Overall, this 4K restoration effort superbly captures every intricate performance and visual nuance, ensuring that "Stop Making Sense" has never looked better.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Stop Making Sense" delivers an audio presentation featuring a new Dolby Atmos track alongside the original Dolby Digital 2.0 stereo mix and English Descriptive Audio. The Dolby Atmos track, though not a seismic shift from a traditional surround mix, brings an engaging auditory experience. Initially, the immersive capabilities take time to surface due to David Byrne's solo performance, with surround activity primarily comprising audience reactions and hall ambience. Notably, crowd noises are largely placed in the side and rear channels rather than the height speakers. As the full band takes the stage, surround activity becomes more consistent and impactful, enveloping the listener in a near-wall-to-wall sound environment.

The Dolby Atmos mix offers some subtle but impressive placement alterations, particularly when performers are in closeup, resulting in a dynamic experience that makes you feel part of the audience. However, there are occasional sync issues, notably in tracks like "Thank You For Sending Me An Angel." Additionally, the absence of an LPCM 2.0 track might be seen as a drawback by audiophiles who appreciated this feature in previous Blu-ray releases. The original Dolby Digital 2.0 stereo mix, while still clean and decent, lacks a lossless format upgrade, which some may find disappointing given its historical significance.

Users should also be aware of potential technical glitches; initially, audio may not engage properly upon disc boot-up, potentially requiring multiple attempts to activate the Atmos track. This might just be an isolated incident but it's worth noting for troubleshooting purposes. Overall, despite minor caveats and the lack of certain previously available audio tracks, the Dolby Atmos mix significantly elevates the auditory experience of "Stop Making Sense."

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Stop Making Sense" by A24 delivers an impressive array of extras, although not all from previous editions are included. Foremost among these is the inclusion of two extended cuts: the newly restored 2023 Talking Heads Extended Cut with Dolby Atmos audio, and the 1985 Jonathan Demme Extended Cut, sourced from a LaserDisc master. Noteworthy is Jonathan Demme’s director commentary from 1999, featuring archival material remixed in 2023. The documentary "Does Anybody Have Any Questions: Making Stop Making Sense" offers an engaging look into the film’s creation and entertaining interviews. Additionally, the unique "26 Minutes of David Byrne Dancing in Silence" provides a fascinating look at Byrne's performance style.

Extras included in this disc:

• Stop Making Sense: Talking Heads Extended Cut (2023): Includes previously unseen/restored footage, Dolby Atmos audio.
• Stop Making Sense: Jonathan Demme Extended Cut (1985): Sourced from 1989 LaserDisc, in 1.33:1.
• Jonathan Demme Director Commentary: Recorded in 1999, remixed in 2023.
• Does Anybody Have Any Questions: Making Stop Making Sense: HD documentary featuring interviews and roundtable discussion.
• 26 Minutes of David Byrne Dancing in Silence: Unique HD feature.
• Bonus Songs:
  • Cities (2023 Talking Heads Edit): HD, sourced from the new cut.
  • Cities (1985 Jonathan Demme Edit): SD, sourced from LaserDisc.
  • Big Business / I Zimbra (2023 Talking Heads Edit): HD, sourced from new cut.
  • Big Business / I Zimbra (1985 Jonathan Demme Edit): SD, sourced from LaserDisc.

Jonathan Demme's directorial expertise shines brilliantly in "Stop Making Sense," a concert film that captures the Talking Heads at their artistic peak. Filmed over four nights at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood, the opening sequence featuring David Byrne's solo rendition of "Psycho Killer" sets the stage with striking minimalism. The simplicity of Byrne stepping onto the stage with a boombox creates an arresting visual and auditory entry point, which is further amplified by the rhythmic interplay between Byrne's acoustic guitar and the offstage drum loop. This approach underscores the meticulous craftsmanship that defines the entire concert experience.

The film gradually builds an exhilarating narrative, as band members and equipment are introduced one song at a time. Starting with Tina Weymouth joining Byrne for "Heaven," each subsequent track adds layers of complexity and energy, culminating in vibrant performances of iconic songs like "Once in a Lifetime" and "Burning Down the House." Demme's decision to focus primarily on the band rather than the audience fosters a sense of intimate engagement, transforming viewing from passive observation to an immersive experience. It feels as though you're not just witnessing a concert but are privileged to have front-row access to a historic musical event.

The A24 re-release on 4K UHD Blu-ray encapsulates this groundbreaking film with stunning clarity and enhanced audio, including Dolby Atmos for an enriched auditory experience. Notably, previously omitted songs such as "Cities" and "I Zimbra" are reintegrated, offering a complete rendition of the concert. Despite some reservations about the oversized mediabook packaging, the 64-page booklet containing behind-the-scenes imagery and detailed sketches from David Byrne offers enriching supplemental content. This release underscores the timelessness of "Stop Making Sense," providing die-hard fans and newcomers alike a pristine and comprehensive presentation of a legendary concert film.

Talking Heads' "Stop Making Sense" on 4K UHD Blu-ray is a remarkable offering that elevates the iconic concert film to new audio-visual heights. Directed by Jonathan Demme, the film captures the band's unique style and infectious energy with unprecedented clarity. The 4K Dolby Vision transfer is exceptional, ensuring vibrant colors and sharp details that breathe new life into every frame. The Dolby Atmos soundtrack complements the visual experience, delivering an immersive audio environment that places you right in the middle of the concert. Some may lament the absence of a lossless stereo track and alternative surround mixes, but the Atmos track undeniably enhances the overall experience.

The supplementary materials included in this A24 release are equally noteworthy, providing fans with a treasure trove of additional content that enriches the experience. These extra features make this package truly comprehensive and worth celebrating. The film's restoration has been executed masterfully, making it a must-own for both lifelong fans and those new to Talking Heads. While some collectors might find the oversized Mediabooks a minor inconvenience, the quality of this release more than compensates for it.

In conclusion, Talking Heads are completely sui generis, and their weird and wild proclivities are brought wonderfully to life in this iconic concert performance. Technical merits are generally solid, though I'm sure some will find the lack of a lossless stereo track and the omission of different surround mixes a disappointment. Otherwise, though, this is another handsomely packaged effort from A24 that includes outstanding supplements. Highly recommended.