A flawlessly remastered masterpiece
Originally released for home viewing in 1984, Stop Making Sense, which follows the band Talking Heads over three nights, has been remastered for the big screen. But how does a four-decade-old concert translate to the big screen? And does it stand the test of time?
Armed with only a guitar and boombox, vocalist David Byrne opens the show with a rendition of ‘Psycho Killer’. Byrne stumbles around the stage, half falling over, immediately welcoming us to the signature quirkiness of Talking Heads.
The first act feels intimate, with anticipation building as the other band members gradually join the stage. This anticipation peaks during a passionate and joyous performance of ‘Burning Down the House’, the first song with everybody present.
Stop Making Sense frames David Byrne as the main character of the film’s story. This is rightfully so; it is impossible not to be enthralled by his stage presence, dance moves and iconic big suit worn in the final part.
Byrne’s involvement in the storytelling makes for some of the most enjoyable parts, such as the energetic choreography of ‘Life During Wartime’ and the lamp prop Byrne dances with during ‘This Must Be the Place’.
The 4K remaster works remarkably on the big screen, with beautifully clear visuals and sound making you forget that you are not actually at a Talking Heads gig. Stop Making Sense demands to be danced to, and many do. It speaks volumes that a 40-year-old performance can have people on their feet in the cinema, it has certainly stood the test of time.
All these years later, Stop Making Sense still holds up as a blueprint for how a great concert film should be made. It shows a band in their element, with an infectious energy which is a delight to watch, whether you know Talking Heads or not.
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