Watch Tapeheads

Tapeheads is a 1988 comedy film that stars John Cusack and Tim Robbins as two struggling filmmakers trying to make it big in the music video industry. Directed by Bill Fishman, the movie follows the journey of Ivan Alexeev (John Cusack) and Josh Tager (Tim Robbins) as they attempt to start their own production company focusing on music videos.

The story begins with a scene of Ivan and Josh at a job interview at a big corporation that produces cheesy music videos. Their interviews don't go well, mostly because they can't take the company seriously, and they end up getting fired before they're even hired. Undeterred, the duo decides to go into business for themselves and borrow all the money they can get from their respective girlfriends (played by Mary Crosby and Katy Boyer) and throw all their resources into their new company.

As they try and make their way producing videos, the duo faces numerous obstacles, including competition, romantic troubles, and financial difficulties. Even with all the odds stacked against them, Ivan and Josh remain optimistic and determined to succeed, coming up with some of the craziest ideas and wildest music videos imaginable to win over new clients.

Tapeheads is a fun and hilarious movie that satirizes the music video industry of the 1980s, including its questionable music videos, over-the-top personalities, and shallow marketing tactics. Some of the videos that Ivan and Josh come up with are particularly entertaining, particularly the ones that feature a group of aging crooners (singing about eating pizza), a young MC Hammer-type rapper, and a band of zombie cheerleaders.

The movie features some great comedic performances from both Cusack and Robbins, with their on-screen chemistry driving much of the film's humor. Mary Crosby's performance as Samantha Gregory provides some much-needed balance, adding moments of warmth and heart to the film.

Perhaps most importantly, though, Tapeheads is a tribute to the power of music and the ways it can unite people from all walks of life. As Ivan and Josh strive to make their big break, they encounter all kinds of musicians and music lovers, including street performers, nightclub singers, and big-name musicians. These interactions not only add to the film's humor but also emphasize the universality of music and how it can bring people together in ways nothing else can.

Overall, Tapeheads is a hilarious and entertaining film that is worth watching for anyone who loves music or appreciates a good comedic romp. While it may not have been a huge box office success upon its release, it has since become a cult classic beloved by many for its unique humor and sharp satire.

Tapeheads is a 1988 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 33 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7.