Review of True Stories (1986) by Star S — 08 Mar 2009

As a virtually plotless parody of everything and everyone, the film is fated to be a mixed bag, only worsened by its susceptibility to some tacky 80's cheese. It's obvious, though, that Byrne has created something significantly ingenious and worthy of the watch.

Through the medium of Virgil, Texas - a technologically flourishing part of the "Civilized World" - Byrne's incredibly vacant, yet entertaining narrator leads us effortlessly through the lives of an inane group of townspeople. Particularly humorous is John Goodman's insecure Louis Fyne among other character travesties that hold more relevance to the film's original release date.

On more than one occasion the movie proves a feast for the eyes, courtesy of cinematographer Edward Lachman, who gives an exacting portrait of a changing America. If nothing else, however, the film provides us with a thoroughly enjoyable twist on Talking Heads material.