Hearts Beat Loud

Hearts Beat Loud is an emotional, yet comforting, musical comedy-drama film that gracefully oscillates between the notes of laughter and tears. Produced in 2018, it delightfully throws light on the boundless intimate potential of a father-daughter relationship. Directed by the versatile Brett Haley, the film casts the acclaimed actor Nick Offerman, alongside talented actress Kiersey Clemons and veteran actress Blythe Danner.

The movie is based in the hipster neighborhood of Red Hook, Brooklyn, bringing forward an origin story full of heartwarming moments that cut across music, family, change, and dreams. The film primarily explores the bond shared between Brooklyn-based widower Frank Fisher, played by Offerman, and his talented young daughter, Sam, portrayed by Clemons. Frank is a former musician who now manages a vintage vinyl shop that is barely surviving amidst the encroaching waves of digitalization.

The plot takes a poignant turn when Frank is unexpectedly prompted to close down his store due to poor business. The increased time that Frank now has on his hands leads to nostalgic memories of his golden days as a musician. This, combined with his passionate love for music, prompts Frank to reignite his musical flame with his gifted daughter Sam. Together, they produce an unexpected internet hit song which gets popular on Spotify.

Sam is portrayed as an ambitious high school senior who is gearing up to move across the country to the west coast for her medical studies. She is visibly torn between her excitement for her future and the comfort of her present. Her character also experiences the exhilarating rush of first love with Rose, played by Sasha Lane, which adds an new layer of complexity to her life.

Offerman endears audiences as the hopeful father, eager to collaborate with his daughter in creating music while they still have time left together. His affectionate character, Frank, inspires viewers with his resilience in the face of adversity and his unconditional love for Sam. His is a tribute to all the supportive fathers who bolster their children's dreams while grappling with their own realities.

Clemons, on the other hand, magnificently represents the hesitant, yet curious Sam. She splendidly captures the turmoil of a young woman on the verge of a life-altering decision. The unspoken chemistry and mutual vulnerability she shares with Offerman is hypnotic and forms the crux of the film. Blythe Danner does a beautiful job playing Frank's mother, who is distance but still supportive of the family.

The movie masterfully blends music into its narrative, using catchy songs to provide a much-needed breather amidst the emotional turmoil, and as a method of communication between the father-daughter duo. The film explores the role of music as an expression of self, a source of hope and bonding, and a firm hand in the face of unavoidable change.

One particularly striking aspect of Hearts Beat Loud is the delicate balance between humor and drama. The film does not shy away from unveiling the harsh realities of life, posing unsettling questions about dreams, failure, love, and acceptance. Yet, it continually softens this exploration with light-hearted humor and engaging musical interludes, leaving the audience alternating between smiles and tears.

The film’s direction, writing, and overall execution help create an experience that evokes a subtle charm of its own. It’s a small but sweet snapshot of life that encourages you to find beauty and happiness in the face of unexpected predicaments.

Hearts Beat Loud is a pleasing watch for those seeking a thoughtful and charming film. It's a heart-centered narrative that comes across as a beautiful celebratory chorus for embracing life's countless quirks, and leaving viewers with the echoing beats of love, music, and fresh beginnings. In all, the film is an ode to the power of dreams, the charm of music, and the timeless beauty of father-daughter relationships.