Rather, it is meant to offer a new perspective on Byrne’s performance and to create a different kind of experience than that of the theatre or concert hall.
The filmed version of American Utopia is not supposed to replace the sensation of being in a packed theatre with hundreds of Talking Heads fans all jamming out to their favorite songs. Some die-hard live-theatre fans may turn up their noses up at the idea of filmed concerts and shows, however, as already noted, live performance and film are two different mediums with their own unique qualities. In a stunning filmed version under Lee’s direction, the performance is now available for an even larger audience across the country. The beautiful performance is tied together by themes of human connection and social justice with a minimalist set that is filled by Annie-B Parson’s majestic choreography. From October 2019 to February 2020, Byrne took to the Broadway stage with a band of talented musicians from around the world for a dazzling concert that included songs from Byrne’s 2018 album, American Utopia, along with a variety of Talking Heads show-stoppers. Photo by David Lee.ĭavid Byrne, former lead singer and guitarist of the ‘70s/’80s New Wave band Talking Heads, continued to make art and music long after the band’s breakup in 1991 with solo albums, tours, collaborations, and an Oscar-winning score for The Last Emperor (1987). L-R: Jacqueline Acevedo, Mauro Refosco, Angie Swan, David Byrne, Tendayi Kuumba, Chris Giarmo, and Bobby Wooten III in DAVID BYRNE’S AMERICAN UTOPIA.
Oscar and Emmy-winning director Spike Lee has done just that with David Byrne’s American Utopia, which captures a breathtaking, sold-out performance in a way that only film can. While film and live theatre are entirely different mediums, and a film certainly cannot replace the experience of a live performance, a pro-shot can create an entirely new perspective on an already amazing show. The success of the Hamilton pro-shot, released earlier this summer on Disney+, revealed how these filmed performances can keep the love of theatre alive, even while Broadway remains closed. However, even before the pandemic, filmed versions of Broadway shows brought these performances to audiences across the country who couldn’t otherwise afford to experience Broadway theatre. It’s difficult to imagine that the musicals, concerts, and plays that have been a New York City staple and a popular tourist attraction for years just aren’t taking place right now. On October 9th, The Broadway League announced, to the severe disappointment of theatre professionals and fans, that Broadway will remain closed until June 2021. Spike Lee brings David Byrne’s once in a lifetime musical experience “American Utopia” to HBO and HBO Max. Home › Reviews › Spike Lee brings David Byrne’s once in a lifetime musical experience “American Utopia” to HBO and HBO Max.
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