With Every Heartbeat

With Every Heartbeat (2011) Movie Review – A Tender and Poignant Exploration of Love and Loss

With Every Heartbeat (originally titled Kopps) is a Swedish romantic drama directed by Alexandra-Therese Keining. Released in 2011, the film delves into the complexities of love, identity, and emotional connection through a deeply personal and evocative narrative. Known for its intimate portrayal of a lesbian relationship and its exploration of themes such as love and self-discovery, With Every Heartbeat has garnered attention for its emotional depth and compelling performances. This review explores the film’s plot, themes, direction, performances, and availability for streaming, particularly in the United States.

Plot Overview

With Every Heartbeat tells the story of two women, Miriam (Livia Millhagen) and Vanessa (Ruth Vega Fernandez), whose lives intertwine in unexpected and transformative ways. Miriam, a successful and emotionally guarded businesswoman, is engaged to her long-term partner, while Vanessa is a free-spirited and passionate artist.

The film begins with a chance meeting between Miriam and Vanessa, which sparks a deep and immediate connection between the two women. As their relationship develops, they navigate the complexities of their feelings, societal expectations, and personal struggles. The film explores their evolving romance and the impact it has on their lives and the lives of those around them.

The narrative delves into themes of self-discovery, the search for authentic connection, and the challenges of reconciling personal desires with societal norms. The film’s plot unfolds with emotional intensity, capturing the highs and lows of a romantic relationship as it faces external and internal obstacles.

Themes and Emotional Impact

With Every Heartbeat explores several themes through its intimate and emotional narrative:

1. Love and Connection: The film delves deeply into the nature of love and emotional connection. It portrays the intense and transformative power of romantic relationships, highlighting the ways in which love can challenge and change individuals.
2. Identity and Self-Discovery: The characters’ journeys of self-discovery and the exploration of their identities are central to the film. Miriam and Vanessa’s relationship serves as a catalyst for personal growth and self-realization, as they confront their own desires and fears.
3. Societal Expectations: The film also addresses societal norms and expectations, particularly regarding relationships and sexuality. It explores the pressures and judgments that can arise from non-traditional relationships and the struggle to assert one’s identity in the face of external scrutiny.
4. Loss and Resilience: The narrative touches on themes of loss and resilience, as the characters face emotional and personal challenges. The film’s exploration of these themes adds depth to the story and underscores the resilience of the human spirit.

The emotional impact of With Every Heartbeat is profound and resonant. The film’s portrayal of a romantic relationship is both tender and raw, capturing the complexities and nuances of love. Its exploration of personal and societal challenges adds to its emotional depth, creating a powerful and moving experience for viewers.

Direction and Cinematic Style

Alexandra-Therese Keining’s direction of With Every Heartbeat is characterized by its intimate and empathetic approach. The film’s direction focuses on capturing the emotional and personal aspects of the characters’ lives, creating a sense of closeness and authenticity.

The cinematography, by Ulf Brantås, complements the film’s emotional tone with its understated and naturalistic style. The use of close-ups and intimate framing enhances the sense of connection between the characters and the audience, while the natural lighting and simple compositions support the film’s realistic and heartfelt portrayal.

The film’s score, composed by Frida Hyvönen, adds to the emotional impact of the narrative. The music complements the film’s themes and mood, enhancing the overall experience and contributing to the film’s evocative and poignant atmosphere.

Performances

The performances in With Every Heartbeat are a standout feature of the film, with Livia Millhagen and Ruth Vega Fernandez delivering deeply emotional and nuanced portrayals.

Livia Millhagen’s performance as Miriam is characterized by its subtlety and depth. Millhagen captures Miriam’s internal struggles and emotional journey with sensitivity and authenticity, adding complexity to the character’s development.

Ruth Vega Fernandez’s portrayal of Vanessa is vibrant and compelling. Fernandez brings a sense of passion and vulnerability to the role, creating a dynamic and engaging character. Her performance adds a layer of emotional richness to the film and enhances the connection between the characters.

The supporting cast, including the actors playing Miriam’s and Vanessa’s friends and family, contributes to the film’s overall impact. Their performances help to flesh out the characters’ relationships and provide additional context for the story.

Critical Reception and Legacy

With Every Heartbeat received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike, praised for its heartfelt storytelling, strong performances, and emotional depth. The film’s portrayal of a lesbian relationship and its exploration of themes such as love and self-discovery were particularly noted for their authenticity and sensitivity.

The film has been recognized for its contribution to LGBTQ+ cinema and its role in exploring non-traditional relationships with nuance and empathy. Its impact on audiences and its place in the genre of romantic drama underscore its significance as a meaningful and influential work.

While the film may not have achieved widespread commercial success, its critical acclaim and the positive reception from viewers highlight its importance and lasting impact. With Every Heartbeat remains a notable example of intimate and emotionally resonant storytelling in modern cinema.

Where to Watch With Every Heartbeat (2011) Online

For those interested in watching With Every Heartbeat, the film is available on several streaming platforms and rental services, particularly in the United States:

1. Amazon Prime Video: With Every Heartbeat can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically start at $3.99, with purchase options available for around $12.99.
2. Apple TV: The film is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV, offering high-definition streaming for viewers.
3. Google Play Movies & TV: With Every Heartbeat can be rented or purchased on Google Play Movies & TV, providing flexibility for viewers on various devices.
4. YouTube Movies: The film is accessible on YouTube Movies for rent or purchase, offering an easy streaming option.
5. Hulu: With Every Heartbeat may also be available on Hulu as part of its library of international films, depending on regional licensing agreements.

Final Verdict

With Every Heartbeat is a tender and poignant exploration of love and self-discovery, directed by Alexandra-Therese Keining. The film’s intimate portrayal of a lesbian relationship, combined with its emotional depth and compelling performances, creates a powerful and resonant cinematic experience.

Available on multiple streaming platforms, the film is accessible to viewers interested in exploring its heartfelt and evocative narrative. Whether revisiting this touching drama or discovering it for the first time, With Every Heartbeat provides a moving and memorable experience that continues to resonate with audiences.