David Byrne’s Dazzling Tour Being Turned Into a Film by ‘Brutalist’ Director Brady Corbet, Shooting in 70mm

David Byrne’s latest tour-turned-movie collaboration with director Brady Corbet brings a new level of sophistication to the intersection of music, film, and technology. By shooting “Who is the Sky?” in 70mm, a format typically reserved for blockbuster epics, Corbet makes a bold statement about the importance of live performance as an art form worthy of cinematic treatment.

Byrne himself acknowledges the impact of Corbet’s vision: “When Brady told me he wanted to shoot our show in 70 millimeter… I didn’t realize what a difference it would make until I saw some frames he sent me.” This comment highlights the unique challenges and opportunities that arise when concert films are made with such ambition. On one hand, capturing high-energy live performances in a cinematic format can be daunting; on the other, the payoff is a visual experience that transports viewers into the heart of the action.

Corbet’s choice to shoot in 70mm underscores his commitment to pushing the boundaries of what concert films can achieve. This decision also speaks to the increasingly blurred lines between music, dance, and visual art, which Byrne’s tour embodies with its elaborate LED screens, choreographed movement, and multimedia wizardry.

As this film takes shape, it’s worth considering the broader implications for live performance and cinema. The “Who is the Sky?” tour has already been hailed by critics as a game-changer in terms of concert design, with Variety praising its innovative setup and transportive qualities. With more artists and directors experimenting with concert films as a medium, what does this mean for the future of music festivals, touring, and even the way we experience art itself?

The “Who is the Sky?” tour has already pushed the boundaries of live performance, and Byrne’s collaboration with Corbet represents a seismic shift in the way we experience live music and visual art. With this film, we’re not just witnessing a concert – we’re being invited into a world of immersive storytelling that blurs the lines between music, dance, and cinema.

The rise of concert films is a significant trend in music film production, with projects like Byrne’s own “American Utopia” and the recent documentary on Brian Wilson, “Long Promised Road,” representing a new wave in collaboration between artists and directors. This surge in interest can be attributed to the changing nature of live performance itself, as streaming platforms and virtual concerts have led to a growing recognition among artists and audiences about the importance of immersive experiences.

For Corbet, the choice to shoot Byrne’s tour in 70mm was not just a technical decision; it was also an artistic one. As he notes, “The band’s performance is an inclusive celebration of community… one of America’s most underappreciated historic cities.” This approach reflects a deeper understanding about the role that music and film can play in shaping our collective culture.

As we navigate this new landscape of concert films, several questions arise. How will artists balance their creative visions with the demands of cinematic production? Will audiences be willing to pay a premium for immersive experiences that blur the lines between music, dance, and film?

One thing is certain: Byrne’s collaboration with Corbet represents a bold experiment in storytelling – one that challenges both artists and audiences to rethink what they expect from live performance. As we watch this film take shape, it’s clear that its impact will be felt far beyond the cinema itself.

As we consider the future of music festivals and touring, it’s worth noting how concert films like Byrne’s “Who is the Sky?” tour might change the way we experience these events. Will this format become more prevalent? And what does it mean for the live performance industry as a whole?

One possible outcome lies in a shift towards more immersive experiences – events that not only showcase incredible talent but also transport audiences into new worlds. Whether through 70mm cinematography or other innovative technologies, concert films offer an unparalleled level of engagement and immersion.

With David Byrne at the helm, we can rest assured that whatever comes next will be nothing short of dazzling.