Hearts of Fire

Bob Dylan once said that hearing the voice of Elvis Presley for the first time was "like bustin' out of jail." So what exactly is this thing called "Hearts of Fire"? Dylan's attempt to pay tribute to Elvis movies like "Spinout" and "Tickle Me"? This is a bad film, a very bad film. Dylan is the only interesting thing about it. It's not his performance or his songs (none of the ones he wrote for the film are memorable) that make it interesting, though. Rather it's just the fact that he agreed to be associated with it at all. Trying to figure out why he decided to take a role in this film will leave you feeling as baffled as Mr. Jones in the famous song.

And not even for all Dylan fans I'm afraid. I know some who hate this movie. I enjoyed it in a soap operaish kind of way. If HE wasn't in it, I'd never watch it again. But HE is, so I bought it and have watched it three times (and counting).

When Hearts of Fire first came out on VHS, I rented it and my 13 year old daughter and I curled up with a big bowl of popcorn and watched. We groaned and we laughed and had a good time. I don't know what people were expecting when they saw this film. The preview photos provided a big clue of what was coming. It amazes me this film gets the bad rap that it does. It was my introduction to Rupert Everett, and I'm glad, because I've really enjoyed a lot of his films over the years. Dylan has held a place in my heart and record collection (beginning with records, then tapes, then CDs, now MP3) since his first album. And I enjoyed new-comer Fiona and was surprised she didn't have more of a career than she did. Although, I've discovered watching Dylan in film over the years, it helps if you view the film as if you're watching poetry in motion.

In the past year, I found a used VHS in excellent condition online, and am happy to have it in my film collection, although I'd prefer it on DVD. Films and rock music: how seriously can these things be taken?

You have to really love the guy to watch this film. It's pretty bad, but, he looks great! The songs. . . well, I've heard better. And, who is Fiona????!!!

Some great cameos. . . and was that Mick Jagger in the audience at one of the concerts??? I think so.

Ok, the story is cliche and basically not-so-good. What got me through the entire film was Fiona and Bob Dylan. Fiona's music was incredible! And I always love watching Dylan sing/play (if not act). And while Fiona's acting was passable, she is very telegenic; she looks quite good on screen.

I never heard of Fiona, but apparently she made several albums, then disappeared from the music scene. Her full name is Fiona Flanagan. I'd love to find some more of her music.

Actually, even as poor as the film was, I'd like to find a copy of the soundtrack. About half the tracks are suppose to be hers.