Straight Through the Heart

About This Movie

Straight Through the Heart, or Mitten Ins Herz as it was originally titled, is this intriguing debut by Doris Dorrie that has a unique blend of quirkiness and earnestness. Beate Jensen's portrayal of Anna is really something; she's a young girl whose oddities and naiveté contrast sharply with the more grounded, older Dr. Armin Thal, played by Josef Bierbichler. The pacing feels almost dreamlike at times, with those awkward romantic moments mixed in with a neurotic energy that keeps you on your toes. There's a certain rawness to the performances, and the way Dorrie captures the awkwardness of love in a German context is distinctive. It’s got that offbeat charm that lingers with you long after the credits roll.

This film is particularly scarce on physical media, with limited releases that tend to pop up now and then. Collector interest has been growing, especially among those who appreciate German cinema from the early '80s. Most versions that surface are either VHS or rare DVD editions, making it a bit of a treasure hunt for dedicated collectors. The film's offbeat charm and unique storytelling resonate well, but its obscurity might make finding it a challenge.