Saturday, June 13, 2026

Stop Making Sense Documentary Review

Stop Making Sense (1984)

Rent Stop Making Sense on Amazon Video (paid link)
Written by: Jonathan Demme, Talking Heads
Directed by: Jonathan Demme
Starring: David Byrne, Bernie Worrell, Alex Weir
Rated: PG
Watch the trailer

Plot
A live performance of the band Talking Heads shot over the course of three nights at Hollywood's Pantages Theater in December of 1983 features their most memorable songs.

Verdict
This is considered to be one of the best concert videos, and it's easy to see why. This focuses completely on the band, forgoing shots of the crowd. The band's unique sound pairs well with the video, and the deliberate choreography of the band. It's sun a fun experience, completely engulfing.
Watch It.

Review
It opens with lead singer David Byrne walking onto stage along as he begins performing Psycho Killer. This plays all of the band's hits. While it's a concert video, the energy, artistry, and creativity is addictive. With the shots and closeup that exclude the crowd, it makes it a very personal experience.

David Byrne

With each song more of the band walk on stage. Throughout the documentary, I was surprised at how much I liked this. Many documentaries like this capture the crowed to help feed the energy, but this never needs it. The band and their music doesn't require any aid. It's not until nearly the end that we first see the crowd, likely more than anything just to prove there was a crowd.
The Talking Heads music has been described as dance music to which you can't dance. I wouldn't consider myself a fan, though I enjoy their music. I found this phenomenal. It's not just music, but it showcases creativity and a deliberate presentation.

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