Newly restored in 4K to coincide with its 40th anniversary, the 1984 film was directed by renowned filmmaker Jonathan Demme and is considered by critics as the greatest concert film of all time. Stop Making Sense stars core band members David Byrne, Tina Weymouth, Chris Frantz, and Jerry Harrison along with Bernie Worrell, Alex Weir, Steve Scales, Lynn Mabry and Edna Holt. The live performance was shot over the course of three nights at Hollywood’s Pantages Theater in December of 1983 and features the Talking Heads’ most memorable songs.

Stop Making Sense
This film is part of the Sounds of Summer series.
This series is sponsored by:
The Lucille & Paul Maslin Foundation
Janet Maslin
Exclusive media partner:

Stop Making Sense
1984. 88 m. Jonathan Demme. A24. US. English. Rated PG.
Tickets: $11 (members), $16 (nonmembers)
"Has there ever been a live concert film as vibrant or as brilliantly realized? I don't think so."
"Mr. Demme has captured both the look and the spirit of this live performance with a daring and precision that match the group's own."
This film is part of the Sounds of Summer series.
This series is sponsored by:
The Lucille & Paul Maslin Foundation
Janet Maslin
Exclusive media partner:
The Jacob Burns Film Center is proud to receive generous support from:
JBFC Announces Ticket Price Reduction For Family Programs
All JBFC Kids tickets are now only $5 each—for kids and adults alike!
Love Film? You Belong Here
Join the JBFC by June 30 & get two extra months free!
Pride: A Celebration of Queer Stories 2025
Now Showing through June 29
Email Sign Up
Get updates on screenings at the JBFC Theater, upcoming events, and more!