It’s the summer before Sam is set to go to college and it’s her father, Frank’s last time to rekindle what they had a long time ago, through music.
The dramedy father daughter relationship captures the heart of what could potentially be a tough moment in any parent’s life, when a child leaves home for the first time. The director uses the words of songs to convey what both Sam and Frank are going through from their own relationship with each other as well as with Sam and her lesbian lover and Frank who still mourns the death of his wife. He does it in such a way that even those ultraconservative viewers should leave the theater saying at least, ‘that was sweet’.
Kiersey Clemens, who plays Sam, in what is her most dramatic role yet. Coming from other movies including Neighbors 2, Hearts Beats Loudly not only showcases her talent as an actress but also her musical ability. When she first sings, her voice carries the movie and we as an audience know that it’s only the beginning.
The chemistry between the actors, which was a small cast of names including Ted Danson, Toni Collette, Blythe Danner and Nick Offerman who plays Frank. All actors together provide a tight chemistry where even the slight disagreement in the beginning when Sam is trying to study in preparation of medical school, it definitely gave a sense that this relationship was rocked a little by something which we find out later is what drives them to want to write music.
Ultimately at 1 hour 37 minute run time, Hearts Beat Loud is a feel good movie for anyone who remembers what it’s like to either have a father or be a father and it’s a great movie to go to with your dad if you are able to. The film came out in theaters June 8, one week before father’s day and is currently playing in a theater near you. See it before it leaves theaters or wait to rent it on your nearest streaming device. You won’t be sorry.