David Byrne’s American Utopia brings the Talking Heads frontman’s critically acclaimed Broadway show to HBO in a one-of-a-kind film directed by Oscar and Emmy-winner Spike Lee. Recorded during its late 2019 to early 2020 run at Broadway’s Hudson Theatre in New York City, Byrne is joined by an ensemble of 11 musicians, singers, and dancers from around the globe, inviting audiences into a joyous dreamworld where human connection, self-evolution, and social justice are paramount.
The special included performances of songs from Byrne’s 2018 solo album of the same name, in addition to popular Talking Heads favorites such as “Once in a Lifetime” and “Burning Down the House.” The musical numbers accompanied with brief monologues allows Byrne to address various sociopolitical topics from police brutality, immigration, climate change, to the critical upcoming election.
Q Tips say: We never heard of David Byrne but did enjoy this show.