Cast
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Matthias Habich
as Pierre Kurwenal
Johanne-Marie Tremblay
as Sarah
Michel Voïta
as David
Jean-François Pichette
as Quentin
Jacqueline Bertrand
as La mère
France Castel
as Michele
Pierre Gobeil
as Le patron
Victor Désy
as Dr. Ferron
Mimi D'Estée
as Dame âgée
Louise Caron
as Invitée au dîner
Louise Marleau
as Invitée au dîner
Marilyn Gardner
as Invitée au dîner
Albert Millaire
as Invité au dîner
Jean Gascon
as Invité au dîner
Peter Pearson
as Invité au dîner
Crew
Director
- Léa Pool
Producer
- Denise Robert
- Robin Spry
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Straight for the Heart examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Léa Pool brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1988, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Straight for the Heart took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 92 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 118 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The musical score contains over 72 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1988, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Straight for the Heart shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Sleepless in Seattle, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Straight for the Heart subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like For You at the Front! and Yoghurt explore similar territory, Straight for the Heart stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: September 30, 1988
- Runtime: 1h 32m
