“This is what queer cinema needs to be – homegrown, authentic, brutally honest, not sloppily put together from clichés and gimmicks and shaved abs.”
Wes Hurley (Seattle Gay Scene)

“Heart Breaks Open is a thought-provoking procedural that deserves to make end-of-the-year lists.”
Scott Knopf (Film Threat)

“HEART BREAKS OPEN is filled with lovely, understated performances, but the takeaway star is director Rain, whose confident style gives the film its idiosyncratic soul and an entrancing rhythm… Go see it.”
David Schmader (The Stranger)

“Bursting with the raw energy of an almost cinema-verite-like feel and gorgeous poetic narration, HEART BREAKS OPEN is a stunningly moving film.”
Scott Cranin (Dorothy’s Closet)

“HEART BREAKS OPEN is a triumph for the LGBT community as it combines prevailing elements of responsibility, intervention, accountability and heartbreak with an underlying but indubitable message of love.”
Dara Kim (LAAPFF)

“A raw look into one man’s personal struggle, as his perfect, community-building, LGBT activist life is tarnished by a moment of weakness.”
Ada Tseng (Asia Pacific Arts)

“Set against Seattle’s wet, moody backdrop, [Heart Breaks Open] refocuses attention on the consequences of casual, unprotected sex in an era where HIV is no longer as visible as it once was. It also reasserts the importance of community – while the worst of the physical manifestations may not be evident, [billie rain] suggests, the psychological and social issues within the gay community remain as serious as ever.”
Out In Africa Festival

“HEART BREAKS OPEN is a powerfully acted, achingly beautiful story about the love, and accountability, that binds our community together.”
NewFest Film Festival

“This is emotionally tough stuff, but rewarding.”
Queerty

“The daring of a movie like HEART BREAKS OPEN is found in its fearless exploration of the victimizer, the one upon whom guilt, shame and remorse is automatically – and perhaps justly – thrust.”
Justin Jagoe (The Film Confessional)

“The film’s credibility lies in its attention to detail, and its deft navigation of complicated topics no surface understanding of — or at least concept of — could advise. More people could benefit from seeing this movie than probably actually will.”
Michael Caigoy (Cinema Sucks)

“It is difficult film to watch, but HEART BREAKS OPEN thrives in that difficulty.”
Justin Jagoe (The Film Confessional)

“What is striking about the film is just how upfront and honest it is about living with HIV. There is no glamorisation or over-egged melodrama, just a very sober and matter-of-fact portrayal of one man’s predicament.”
James Waygood (So So Gay)