From Blumhouse Television, comes a tense horror-thriller that reflects the dark, corruptive nature of ambition. Based in the Country music world, Torn Hearts tells the tale of two hungry musical artists who are desperate to be discovered on a larger level, and are so determined to get there. Director Brea Grant, with writer Rachel Koller Croft, deliver a movie that is mostly intriguing, engaging, and unnerving.
A talented, but often overlooked, Country music duo called Torn Hearts have been struggling to thrive, and are simply tired of going nowhere forward. Both Jordan and Leigh (Abby Quinn, Alexiss Lemire) might have an opportunity of a lifetime, when it seems that they might join the tour of a more successful artist (Shiloh Fernandez). After this opportunity falls through, the Torn Hearts see another chance for success when they receive information on the whereabouts of their idol Harper Dutch (Katey Sagal).
Once a part of a popular and respected Country duo, Harper, who is now a recluse, reluctantly agrees to help her contemporaries by recording a new song with them. At first, charming the tough and unflappable Dutch sister seems impossible, but there is something about the Torn Hearts which convinces her otherwise. Both Jordan and Leigh soon realize that something is very wrong with Harper Dutch and their time with her eventually devolves into a nightmare.
There is a certain amount of predictability that comes with this movie’s story; however, filmmakers Grant and Croft manage to offer their audiences a surprise or two. And that is what makes this thriller rather watchable and enticing. The approach of the filmmakers is solid and sure. They also present the story very simply and subtely, without ever going to far over-the-top or melodramatically.
The solid writing by Croft and the competent direction by Grant allow the actors in the film to hit their marks well. Both Quinn and Lemire perform aptly, given the dynamics of their individual personalities and their relationship. It is, however, Katey Sagal who gives a marvelous turn as former superstar Harper Dutch, a seemingly tough musical artist who eventually begins to reveal a more fractured side. I also enjoyed the acting of both Shiloh Fernandez and Joshua Leonard who both perform admirably in their respective roles.
Though Torn Hearts is definitely a film that is totally appropriate for the television medium, that is not to say that it is a weak effort on the part of the filmmakers and cast. It is basically a fine example of mostly satisfying movie-making and storytelling that doesn’t necessarily have to be presented on a grand, cinematic level. The film is now available for viewing on digital platforms, and is one that I recommend.