Heartbeat

Synopsis

"Heartbeat" (original title "Batticuore"), a 1939 Italian romantic comedy directed by Mario Camerini and starring Assia Noris, follows the story of a spirited bank cashier who becomes entangled with a charming crook posing as a nobleman. Set against the backdrop of Italy's early 20th century social milieu, the film unfolds a playful tale of mistaken identities, love, and light-hearted deception. Assia Noris brings a vivid charm to her role, delivering a performance that blends wit with emotional nuance. The movie balances humor and romance seamlessly, inviting audiences into a whimsical world where appearances can be delightfully deceiving and true feelings reveal themselves in unexpected ways.

Cast

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  Assia Noris

  Arlette / La baronessina Dvorak

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  John Lodge

  Lord Jerry Dansbury

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  Luigi Almirante

  Prof. Comte

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  Rubi D'Alma

  Contessa Maciaky

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  Giuseppe Porelli

  Conte Maciaky

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  Maurizio D'Ancora

  Il ladruncolo

Reviews

Critically, "Heartbeat" (1939) has received a mixed but generally positive reception over the years. On IMDb, the film holds a modest rating of 6.1/10, reflecting a range of viewer opinions. Users often praise Assia Noris's captivating performance and the film's charming depiction of early 20th century Italian society. One review on IMDb notes, "Noris shines in this witty, light-hearted romantic folly, bringing both grace and humor to the screen." However, some critics feel that the pacing can be uneven and that the plot, while engaging, treads familiar ground without significant innovation. Rotten Tomatoes does not have a score for this vintage film, which is typical for movies from that era, yet cinema historians appreciate it for its classic narrative style and Camerini's direction. Film scholar entries highlight "Heartbeat" as a valuable example of pre-war Italian cinema, underscoring its significance despite any narrative drawbacks. Overall, the film is recommended for fans of classic romantic comedies and those interested in Italian film history, offering a delightful, if occasionally dated, cinematic experience.