Most reviews of this film will explain why this film is better than the original American film "Fingers." But instead of watching "The Beat that my Heart Skipped" to see a rare French remake of an American film, watch this film to see one of the most gripping acting performances of the last several years. Romain Duris, playing a very different character than he did in "L'Auberge espagnole," is absolutely phenomenal: he takes a role that could be (based on the plot summary) corny and sentimental and makes it gritty and believable.
While you're watching, notice all the unusual camera angles that highlight the general feeling of instability that the main character is experiencing.
Who knew that beating people up with frying pans and playing Bach could be so compatible?