"Making Movies" is the third studio album by British rock band Dire Straits, released on 17 October 1980 by Vertigo Records internationally and by Warner Bros. Records in the United States. The album reflects Mark Knopfler's cinematic songwriting style, and it contains several of their best-known songs, including "Romeo and Juliet", "Tunnel of Love", and "Skateaway".
The recording sessions for the album were marked by significant changes in Dire Straits' lineup, the departure of David Knopfler due to personal and creative differences, and the addition of keyboardist Roy Bittan from Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band. This resulted in a more distinctive and expansive sound, which was generally well received by critics and fans alike. Critics have particularly praised Knopfler's evocative lyrics and the sophistication of the band's music.
"Making Movies" has a cinematic quality, with many of the songs having a storytelling nature, which is a departure from the straightforward rock approach of the band's previous two albums. The style of the album is more lavish than their earlier work, paving the way for the band's later success with the album "Brothers in Arms".
The album failed to reach the top 20 in the UK Albums Chart upon its initial release but was successful in America, reaching number 19 on the Billboard 200. The album eventually went on to become a significant commercial success, and as of 1987, it achieved platinum certification by the RIAA in the United States.
