The Making of Dire Straits’ Musical Peak: ‘Making Movies’

Dire Straits’ Redemption: The Story Behind the Masterpiece ‘Making Movies’

In the world of music, the sophomore slump is a common phenomenon that many bands struggle to overcome. Dire Straits experienced this setback, but they quickly bounced back with their third album, ‘Making Movies,’ released in 1980. This album showcased some of Mark Knopfler’s finest songwriting and a sound that was both tighter and more expansive than their previous efforts.

What makes the success of ‘Making Movies’ even more remarkable is the fact that the band underwent a major personnel change during the making of the album. Following the lukewarm reception of their second album, ‘Communiqué,’ Dire Straits enlisted the help of producer Jimmy Iovine, known for his work with Tom Petty and Bruce Springsteen. Additionally, the band saw the departure of rhythm guitarist David Knopfler, leading Mark Knopfler to re-record his parts with session player Sid McGinnis.

Despite these challenges, Mark Knopfler remained focused on the material for ‘Making Movies,’ determined to create a record that showcased his true capabilities. The result was an album filled with hits, each track featuring literate and affecting lyrics, enhanced by Roy Bittan’s keyboard work and Iovine’s production.

The standout track on the album, “Romeo and Juliet,” is a poignant love song that captures the essence of new romance with a heartbroken twist. Other tracks like “Tunnel of Love,” “Solid Rock,” and “Expresso Love” showcase the band’s dynamic sound and storytelling prowess.

While Dire Straits would go on to achieve superstardom with their fifth album, ‘Brothers in Arms,’ it is ‘Making Movies’ that stands out as their musical peak. Despite not achieving the same commercial success as their later releases, this album remains a hidden gem in their discography, a testament to the band’s talent and creativity.

In the end, ‘Making Movies’ may not have been the record that catapulted Dire Straits to fame, but it remains a masterpiece that solidified their place in music history.