Legendary Concert Takes Center Stage in Obscure Film by ‘Silence of the Lambs’ Director!

What’s it about?

In December 1983 at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood, David Byrne, the frontman of Talking Heads, steps onto an empty stage, hits play on a tape recorder, and begins a mesmerizing rendition of the hit “Psycho Killer.” With each new song, additional band members join him on stage, culminating in one of the most legendary rock concerts ever staged.

For forty years, a special aura has surrounded this yet underappreciated film: Stop Making Sense, created by the late, great director Jonathan Demme (The Silence of the Lambs, Philadelphia…). Fortunately, the film is being re-released in theaters to mark the 40th anniversary of its original French release!

Talking Heads and Their Collection of Hits Including “Psycho Killer”

This unique film offers an end-to-end experience of a Talking Heads concert, featuring a string of hits (“Psycho Killer,” “Burning Down The House,” and others). The distinctive staging by the band and the director makes it a cinematic experience unlike any other. Immersive and captivating, the musical ingenuity of the band is both straightforward and incredibly inventive. For many, Stop Making Sense is regarded as the greatest concert film of all time!

A Cult Band in Pop Culture

The relationship between Talking Heads and cinema (and television) is indeed a long love story. Countless films and shows feature musical snippets from the band. Just last May at Cannes, “Psycho Killer” played during the opening credits of Rebecca Zlotowski’s much-anticipated new film with Jodie Foster and Virginie Efira, “Private Life.” Recently, a new music video (directed by Mike Mills and featuring Saoirse Ronan) was crafted to accompany this timeless track.

Also at Cannes, 14 years ago, Paolo Sorrentino’s film “This Must Be The Place” featured David Byrne and his band prominently in a scene paying tribute to Stop Making Sense. Even The Simpsons have showcased its iconic singer and his famously oversized suit in an episode.

In short, it’s clear that Talking Heads has thoroughly permeated pop culture, and Stop Making Sense has played a significant role in building this mythos around the band! Stop Making Sense was re-released in theaters this Wednesday, June 18. It’s an ideal way to celebrate music this weekend.