Jonathan Demme‘s ‘Stop Making Sense’ 40th-anniversary screening at Imax breaks records, becoming the highest-grossing live event, delighting fans worldwide
Credit: Google | Jonathan Demme
In a remarkable milestone for both music and cinema enthusiasts, the 40th-anniversary screening of Jonathan Demme’s legendary concert film, “Stop Making Sense“, has etched its name in Imax history books. This iconic performance secured its position as the highest-grossing live event for Imax, amassing an impressive $640,839 in earnings across 165 Imax locations in North America.
Spike Lee interviewing Talking Heads (David Byrne on far left) after very cool 40th Anniversary IMAX screening of Stop Making Sense… #TIFF23 pic.twitter.com/i8Tpe15qLB
— Matthew Belloni (@MattBelloni) September 11, 2023
The achievement marks a distinctive record within the realm of Imax Live events, surpassing the previous milestone set by Brandi Carlile‘s “In the Canyon Haze” in September 2022, which grossed $505,000. Imax Live typically encompasses early screenings coupled with interactive Q&A sessions with stars and filmmakers. Noteworthy past events encompass director Peter Jackson’s Disney+ documentary, “The Beatles: Get Back“, and Olivia Wilde’s “Don’t Worry Darling“.
The debut of A24’s carefully restored 4K version of ‘Stop Making Sense‘ was a highlight at the Toronto International Film Festival, held at Cineplex’s Scotiabank Theatre.The Q&A session, moderated by filmmaker Spike Lee, featured all four original band members – David Byrne, Tina Weymouth, Chris Frantz, and Jerry Harrison. Lee himself praised the film, declaring it ‘the greatest concert film ever‘.
Imax’s CEO, Rich Gelfond, expressed immense excitement about the film’s presentation in the Imax format, stating, ‘The unforgettable ‘Stop Making Sense‘ appears even more incredible in Imax, and we’re delighted to share this event with TIFF and audiences worldwide.’ Gelfond emphasized Imax’s dedication to delivering unparalleled live music experiences, anticipating a bright future with A24 as their partner.
Jonathan Demme’s ‘Stop Making Sense’ has solidified its status as a cinematic masterpiece and one of history’s most iconic concert films. Shot over three unforgettable nights at Hollywood’s Pantages Theater in December 1983, the film features timeless Talking Heads hits, including ‘Burning Down the House‘, ‘Once in a Lifetime‘ and ‘This Must Be the Place‘.
For eager fans anticipating its return, A24 has acquired and lovingly restored ‘Stop Making Sense‘. The film will enjoy an exclusive full theatrical run in Imax theaters starting September 22, with a nationwide expansion on September 29.
Better than it ever was.
— Harkins Theatres (@HarkinsTheatres) August 17, 2023
Experience Jonathan Demme’s seminal Talking Heads doc Stop Making Sense at Harkins for its 40th anniversary, newly restored in pristine 4K, on September 29! pic.twitter.com/Bopbzw5Lml
This remarkable achievement serves as a testament to the enduring allure of ‘Stop Making Sense‘ and its ability to captivate successive generations, reaffirming that the fusion of exceptional music and cinematic artistry remains ageless and endlessly captivating”.
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