‘Heartland’ Review: Jessica Chastain Rocks a Stetson and a Swagger for a Soapy Nashville Noir

In Shana Feste’s thriller *Heartland*, former country star Misty Jones returns to Nashville’s music scene to investigate the disappearance of her niece, a rising singer. Jessica Chastain’s forceful performance and the film’s mix of country music glamour and Southern noir make it entertaining, but the review finds that it never becomes a convincing thriller.

Misty, now living as a reclusive farmer in Georgia, is asked for help by her brother Donny after his daughter Charlie vanishes. Her inquiries lead her to Charlie’s slick manager, a stalker and other figures in the industry Misty left behind after her temper damaged her career. The review praises Jennifer Nettles’ supporting role and a duet with Chastain, while criticising the thin script, underdeveloped relationships and obvious villains.