Movie spotlight
Heartbeat
As a young film student immersed with the works of Godard and cinema verite, Will Combs barged into the backyard of the remaining Beats in San Francisco’s North Beach in the mid-1970’s. Using surplus film stock and a spring-wind Bolex, he began to capture the temperament of the Era, kabuki style. HEARTBEAT features rare and personal footage of Bob Kaufman, Jack Micheline and Hube the Cube in their environment, infusing poetry with a concise inquiry into the Beat Era.
Insights
Plot Summary
A driven but cynical homicide detective in Washington D.C. investigates the murder of a call girl, which leads him into a complex web of corruption involving wealthy and influential figures. As he delves deeper, he finds himself increasingly entangled with the victim's sister, who is determined to uncover the truth herself. The investigation tests his moral compass and his resolve against powerful forces.
Critical Reception
Heartbeat received a mixed to positive reception from critics. While some praised its gritty atmosphere, strong performances from the lead actors, and suspenseful plotting, others found the narrative to be somewhat predictable or underdeveloped. The film is generally regarded as a solid, if unspectacular, crime drama from the late 1970s.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its tense atmosphere and compelling lead performance.
Some critics found the plot to be somewhat formulaic for the genre.
Sigourney Weaver's performance was noted as a standout.
Google audience: Information not available.
Fun Fact
Nick Nolte's portrayal of the detective was considered one of his early significant roles that helped establish his tough-guy image in Hollywood.
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