The latest film from Brea Grant (12-Hour Shift) is a takedown of the music industry and the patriarchal gatekeeping of the scene in general as well as presenting as a neo-American Gothic horror picture.

Jordan (Abby Quinn) and Leigh (Alexxis Lemire) are Torn Hearts, a country and western duo hoping to get their big break on a national tour supporting the current big thing. When they learn they have been passed over for another male band, they seek out their hero, Harper Dutch (Katey Sagal), who had huge success with her sister but became a recluse following her death. Reluctantly, Harper agrees to let the pair into her home but her behaviour becomes increasingly bizarre, leaving the youngsters worrying about their future.

Torn Hearts shows the dark side of country music (and is applicable to other genres) excellently, with Katey Sagal’s character bringing a Baby Jane vibe. She dominates the film as one would expect and her overly pink character is as mysterious as she is threatening. Sagal has a history in the music industry as she has been a backing singer for some successful acts (she added her voice to Gene Simmons’ solo album in 1978 when each member of KISS recorded separately, for example), so has no doubt got some experience to draw from. Although being the focus of attention, for the most part, she never does so at the expense of her co-stars Lemire and Quinn. They convey the nervous excitement of getting a shot to work with their idol perfectly.

Brea Grant’s direction makes the most of the luxurious house where the former star lives and don’t worry, she fills the screen with blood as the story progresses. The music industry is cut-throat, after all. This is a parable about the price of fame, working in a male-dominated industry, and not getting too close to your idols amongst other things. It’s a fun watch and delivers the goods (and some line-dance-worthy songs).