An Affair of the Heart (2012) Reviews

• Underrated Rocker; Could Use a Deeper Look

  LynxMatthews2012-10-12

  I would tell anyone who likes rock music that Rick Springfield is way more than "Jesse's Girl." Listen to "Don't Talk to Strangers," for instance, as an example of a perfectly-crafted pop song. I was interested in this documentary as a look at what he is all about and, as promised, what the people are like who still follow his every move. There are some extremely moving stories in this movie of fans whose lives have been touched by Rick's music, and it is interesting to see how Rick comes to terms with and embraces these fans. Where the film doesn't follow through is on the story of Rick himself. There are 2-3 times when you think we the film is going to explore a little of his dark side, and then it quickly retreats. Rick is referred to as having been a "dick" but it isn't elaborated upon. Rick cheated on his wife, but we don't really get her viewpoint, even as he is still knee-deep in women throwing themselves at him. His depression is covered mostly in a montage of clips from interviews promoting his book, rather than by the filmmaker. This is where a slight credibility gap emerges and the piece leans toward propaganda. Rick has saved the fans, that's clear; the fans helped save Rick, but from exactly what isn't fully explored. He's written a book and maybe that's what the film's purpose is to get people to purchase. It is interesting at first when you get former MTV veejay Mark Goodman commenting positively on Rick's recent music, but less credible when it is revealed he is an employee on Rick's cruise. Several of the documentary encounters with fans are clearly events manufactured by the filmmakers: Rick showing up in fans' hotel room, fans' husbands sneaking into concert. Compare those to the airplane incident with a fan and his friendship with Dustin and I'd suggest none of the manufactured drama held a candle to the real stuff. So that is the conflict of the film: Fascinating material and great music that I wish Rick and the filmmakers would have trusted an audience with in tandem with a less varnished look at Rick and his fans. Lastly, wish they could have used more of his music from the mid-'70s part of his career, as the visuals from Comic Book Heroes made me want to hear some of that great album!

• Too Much Mommies, Not Enough Other Featured Fans

  rsusan7312013-01-02

  I like music documentaries and this one was interesting and fun except there was too much of executive producer Melanie Lentz-Janney's friends Joanne and Sue. I was bored out of my mind watching these two privileged princesses tramp their way to the next Springfield concert and their constant mugging for attention greatly took away from the film. The bouncing on the bed scene was so phony it was painful; why Springfield ever consented to participate in it is beyond comprehension. Other fan stories were genuine and enjoyable, especially the married couple. I thought the minister's story was particularly powerful (not enough of any of them, cut some of the Mommies!) Dustin and Rick together were magical.That's one lucky young man to have Rick Springfield as his mentor! I thought the directing and editing were good. The sound was outstanding.

• Good Doc

  edweiland2012-10-13

  Affair of the Heart looks at Rick Springfield's devoted fan base. This movie really sparkles when it focuses on the groupies, which is the majority of the film. What I liked best was how the fans told their own stories of what led them to a place where so much of their time and resources are devoted to a former teen idol whose heyday was more than 25 years ago. Included are some very moving personal stories, interviews with spouses of the fans and their feelings about dealing with the obsessions of their significant others and a lot of recent concert footage. The movie drags when it gets into Springfield's career a little. It's all basic pop star stuff. It wasn't of much interest to me and wouldn't appeal to anyone other than devoted fans. Fortunately this doesn't take up much of the film. Springfield is the star of the film. He's on camera a lot both performing and being interviewed and comes off as a likable star with a good perspective on life. He clearly loves performing and enjoys taking the time to get to know his devoted fans. The connection between the star and his fans makes for an interesting film that's well worth seeing.

• A Must See............

  stampandscrapdiva2013-08-03

  As a fan of Rick Springfield for over 30 years, I was not surprised that I enjoyed this documentary immensely! I would, however, like to share my reviews of this for anyone who has not witnessed this phenomenal performer at least once in their lifetime. Not only is Rick Springfield an unparalleled performer, he is, as witnessed in this documentary, a deep, soulful, considerate individual to his fans! The stories of his connection to the fans are amazing! You will laugh, cry, and connect as a human to some truly amazing people. This is a gift of a documentary! Don't delay in viewing this fine piece of cinematic genius!!!!!

• Rick Rocks

  annehendrix-755-3642292013-08-03

  I received my long awaited copy and love it. It's an accurate portrayal of real Rick fans as well as the connection Rick has with his lifelong fans. This is not your run of the mill documentary. It tells the story from the flip side-from the fan's point of view. You don't have to be an over the top Rick fan to appreciate this movie. You will have a new found appreciation of the artist and the unique way that he connects with his fans. It's a human story and we can all use more of that. It is full of real, raw and emotional stories write from the heart. What a great legacy to document the impact you've had on so many lives!! Even got my hubby and kids to watch with me :)