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Deep Dive: Big Time (1988)

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Big Time
Big Time is a 1988 concert film directed by Chris Blum, centering on singer Tom Waits. The film features performances of songs from his albums Swordfishtrombones, Rain Dogs, and Franks Wild Years. It captures the unique style of Waits and his band, showcasing a blend of theatricality and musicality, filmed primarily in Los Angeles and San Francisco. The film did not have any known existing 35mm prints until an archival one surfaced in the late 2010s. Critics had mixed responses, with some describing it as a 'freak show' while others found it a treat for fans. The film was released on various formats including LaserDisc and VHS, but no official DVD or Blu-ray edition has been made available as of now.

Why Watch

  • •See Tom Waits perform 17 unique songs.
  • •Find out why critics called it a 'freak show.'
  • •Meet the musicians who collaborated with Waits.

Did You Know

•Filming took place in Los Angeles and San Francisco, California.
•No known 35mm prints existed until an archival one appeared in the late 2010s.
•The film features 17 songs performed by Tom Waits and his band.
•Big Time was released on VHS in Japan, UK, and Yugoslavia, but only on VHS in North America.

Perfect For

Tom Waits fansConcert film enthusiasts1980s music culture