“Hearts of Fire”: A Forgotten Gem in Bob Dylan’s Career

“Hearts of Fire,” released in 1987, remains one of the more obscure facets of Bob Dylan’s illustrious career. This British-American musical drama, directed by Richard Marquand of “Return of the Jedi” fame, boasts an intriguing cast featuring Dylan himself, British actor Rupert Everett, and 80s pop sensation, Fiona. Despite its star-studded line-up and promising premise, the film largely flew under the radar, neither attracting commercial success nor critical acclaim.

20 facts about Hearts of Fire movie

1. “Hearts of Fire” was released in 1987.
2. The film was directed by Richard Marquand, who is best known for directing “Return of the Jedi” in the Star Wars franchise.
3. The movie stars music legend Bob Dylan, actor Rupert Everett, and actress Fiona.
4. This is one of the few acting roles Bob Dylan has taken in his career.
5. In the film, Bob Dylan plays a reclusive rock star named Billy Parker.
6. The film’s plot revolves around a love triangle involving an aspiring young singer (played by Fiona), her mentor (Dylan), and a musician (Everett).
7. The film was not a commercial success and was critically panned.
8. “Hearts of Fire” is best remembered for its soundtrack, which features several songs performed by Dylan.
9. Some of Dylan’s songs in the film include “The Usual”, “Had a Dream About You, Baby”, “Night After Night”, and “Hearts of Fire”.
10. The film was one of the last directed by Richard Marquand before his death in 1987.
11. Despite its lack of success, “Hearts of Fire” has since gained a cult following among some Dylan fans.
12. The film was shot in Canada and the United Kingdom.
13. The movie’s script was written by Scott Richardson and Michael Thomas.
14. Rupert Everett’s singing voice in the film was provided by the vocalist John Parr.
15. The film’s soundtrack album was released on Columbia Records.
16. The film’s genre is a mix of drama, music, and romance.
17. Despite Dylan’s music contributions, the film was not well-received by Dylan’s fanbase.
18. Dylan reportedly distanced himself from the film after its release and seldom spoke about it in interviews.
19. “Hearts of Fire” marked Fiona’s first and only major film role. She was better known as a pop singer in the 80s.
20. “Hearts of Fire” was produced by Joe Boyd, best known for his work with artists like Nick Drake and the Incredible String Band.

Cansu Demir