David Bowie’s long-lost 1978 Isolar II tour film will return to audiences in 2027 under the title Stage, following extensive restoration work by filmmaker Brett Morgen. The original footage was shot by director David Hemmings at London’s Earls Court arena during performances centered on the Low and Heroes albums. Bowie had commissioned the footage for potential release as a concert film, though he ultimately shelved the project, stating in 2000 that he was dissatisfied with how it had been filmed.
The footage remained unreleased for decades, becoming a sought-after artifact among Bowie collectors. Morgen encountered the original 35mm film while directing the documentary Moonage Daydream, which won best music film at the 2024 Grammy awards. Footage from the Earls Court performances featured prominently in that documentary, reigniting fan interest in the complete tour film. Morgen subsequently spent years meticulously restoring the original material, including color grading, relighting, and hand painting work.
The Isolar II tour ran from March through December 1978 and featured backing musicians including guitarists Carlos Alomar and Adrian Belew, bassist George Murray, drummer Dennis Davis, keyboardist Roger Powell, pianist Sean Mayes, and violinist Simon House. Contemporary reviews praised the performances highly, with critics noting Bowie’s improved vocal condition and the band’s musicianship during this period.
For its arena presentation, Stage will incorporate multiple screens, custom lighting design by Patrick Woodroffe, and immersive audio mixing by Paul Massey. Advanced transparent LED technology will create visual effects intended to simulate the presence of Bowie and his band performing live. The production will have its premiere as part of the 77th Berlin Film Festival in February before commencing its arena tour later in the year.
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