No band told a story quite like Dire Straits, and Making Movies plays like their widescreen masterpiece. Released in October 1980, the album brought cinematic scale, heartbreak, street scenes and rock ‘n’ roll swagger to the forefront. With songs like “Romeo and Juliet” and “Tunnel of Love,” the band struck a nerve in the UK and far beyond, reaching platinum status in the US and double platinum in the UK. Toss in a little Springsteen influence, a family split, and a real-life Rollergirl, and you’ve got a record that lives up to its name.
Here are 5 wild facts about Making Movies that belong in the director’s cut:
1. Springsteen’s Crew Joins the Cast
Producer Jimmy Iovine comes on board after Knopfler hears his work on Patti Smith’s “Because the Night.” Iovine brings along E Street Band legend Roy Bittan to play piano on the record. Bittan’s swirling part on “Tunnel of Love” borrows from his own “Jungleland” intro. Springsteen energy flows right through the heart of these sessions.
2. David Knopfler Exits Stage Left
Mid-recording, David Knopfler parts ways with the band after tensions rise with his brother Mark. His guitar tracks are mostly complete but get re-recorded by Mark. Sid McGinnis fills in the rest, uncredited. The final product keeps moving, and the lineup evolves right after release with Alan Clark and Hal Lindes stepping in.
3. Romeo and Juliet Was Personal
The album’s best-known song tells a tale of lost love and mixed signals, and it hits even harder once you know it was inspired by Mark Knopfler’s breakup with Holly Vincent. Her real-life interview quote—“I had a scene with Mark Knopfler”—ends up as a lyric. That iconic arpeggiated intro? Played on a National Style “O” guitar, just like the one on the Brothers in Arms cover.
4. Tunnel of Love Starts With a Waltz
The album kicks off with “Tunnel of Love,” and before Knopfler sings a word, the band plays “The Carousel Waltz” by Rodgers and Hammerstein. Clocking in over 8 minutes, it becomes a concert staple. The track finds new life in the 1982 film An Officer and a Gentleman, adding even more magic to its fairground sweep.
5. Rollergirl Was Presidential
The music video for “Skateaway” stars Jayzik Azikiwe, who rolls through city streets with headphones and poise. She was credited as Jay Carly in the clip directed by Lester Bookbinder. Behind the skates? She’s the daughter of Nigeria’s first president, Nnamdi Azikiwe. A cult visual moment with MTV love and global flair.