Stop Making Sense (1984)

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Director: Jonathan Demme

Writers: Jonathan Demme, Talking Heads

Stars: David Byrne, Jerry Harrison, Tina Weymouth, Chris Franz, Bernie Worrell, Alex Weir, Steve Scales, Lynn Mabry, Edna Holt


Jonathan Demme's concert film captures Talking Heads at the height of their powers in 1983. 


Fans of the band will not be disappointed, and I don't think anyone who comes to this film with an open mind, open ears, and open eyes will, either. 


It begins with David Byrne alone on a bare stage, where he performs an acoustic version of Psycho Killer with a boom box providing the percussion. 


The band members and supporting musicians come on stage, set up, and join in during succeeding numbers and the music becomes steadily more layered until we arrive at the explosively exuberant performance of Burning Down the House that ends the picture. 


Byrne's quirky personality, the exquisite musicianship of the band, and everyone's sheer love of making music are on full display here.


 Highly recommended.


















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