Movie Info:
Review:
“Heart Eyes” is a genre-bending Valentine’s Day movie that combines the thrills of a slasher film with the charm of a romantic comedy. Directed by Josh Ruben, the film stars Olivia Holt as Ally, a jaded advertising executive, and Mason Gooding as Jay, a charming marketing whiz. Together, they navigate a series of Valentine’s Day murders committed by the enigmatic Heart Eyes Killer.
The film’s premise is intriguing and offers a fresh take on the holiday slasher genre. The Heart Eyes Killer, with his distinctive mask featuring glowing heart-shaped eyes, targets couples on Valentine’s Day, creating a citywide panic. Ally and Jay find themselves caught in the killer’s crosshairs, leading to a series of tense and humorous encounters.
One of the film’s strengths is its ability to balance humor and horror. The early scenes, particularly the meet-cute at a coffee shop and the witty dinner exchange, are both charming and engaging. Holt and Gooding share a natural chemistry that makes their interactions enjoyable to watch. However, as the horror elements take center stage, the film struggles to maintain this balance. The tonal whiplash between romance and slasher thrills can be jarring, and the comedic moments sometimes feel at odds with the brutal kills.
Despite its uneven tone, “Heart Eyes” succeeds in delivering some genuinely funny and thrilling moments. The inventive kills and the killer’s unique design add a layer of excitement to the film. The climax, though predictable, is well-executed and provides a satisfying conclusion to the story.
The supporting cast, including Michaela Watkins as Ally’s over-the-top boss and Devon Sawa as one of the investigating cops, adds depth to the film. Their performances, along with the film’s self-aware script, poke fun at the conventions of both the rom-com and slasher genres.
In conclusion, “Heart Eyes” is a fun and entertaining Valentine’s Day movie that will appeal to fans of both horror and romance. While it may not be groundbreaking, it offers a unique and enjoyable blend of the two genres. Streaming now on Amazon Prime, it’s a perfect choice for a date night filled with laughs and thrills.
**Grade: B**
Credits:
Directed by
Written by
- Phillip Murphy
- Christopher Landon
- Michael Kennedy
Produced by
- Christopher Landon
- Greg Gilreath
- Adam Hendricks
Starring
Cinematography
Stephen Murphy
Edited by
Brett W. Bachman
Music by
Production
companies
Distributed by
- Screen Gems(through Sony Pictures Releasing; United States and Canada)
- Republic Pictures(through Paramount Pictures; International)
Release date
- February 7, 2025
Running time
97 minutes[1]
Country
United States
Language
English
Budget
$18 million
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