Movie Review: Hearts Beat Loud, a music-driven dramedy!

Nick Offerman and Kiersey Clemons star in Hearts Beat Loud, a music-driven dramedy that sings a delightful tune.

Offerman plays Frank, a humble record shop owner at a crossroads in his life. He's decided not to renew his shop's lease after 17 years of business, and his musically gifted daughter Sam (Kiersey Clemons, Dope) is heading off to college. During that significant summer, Frank and Sam's songwriting duo -- which they cheekily call "We're Not A Band" -- starts to gain radio attention, and in turn, it causes some conflict between the two of them.

This film carries the same creative, wide-eyed spirit as John Carney's Begin Again. And fittingly, it flaunts a killer indie soundtrack, featuring the likes of Jeff Tweedy, Jason Molina, and Mitski(!!), as well as the catchy music that Frank and Sam perform -- most notably the title track "Hearts Beat Loud". The story is fairly easy going with a light and jangly tone, but it does hit some emotional beats in the second half, especially as they contemplate their futures and reflect on the past. The leads here are terrific, and there's also a great supporting cast assembled, including Toni Collette, Sasha Lane (American Honey), Ted Danson (amusingly playing a bartender who's high off the reefer all the time), and Blythe Danner.

Hearts Beat Loud is one of those films that's impossible not to like. This jam wears its heart on its sleeve and it puts a smile on your face, while celebrating the power of music and family and love. It also has one of the most genuinely sweet endings in recent memory. Play on.

Hearts Beat Loud is now available to watch on VOD.