Heart Eyes Review
If you told me that the creators behind the modern Scream movies were making a rom-com slasher film, I’d be left surprised. However, that’s what fans are truly treated to with their latest film, Heart Eyes. Much like their 2023 film, Thanksgiving, it does seem like their work with holiday-related horror movies is slowly coming full circle. Of course, there are some that have their own doubts that it might be too satirical for its own good. However, director Josh Ruben has been able to create a very enjoyable experience with this film, proving his potential in the genre.
Heart Eyes revolves around the killing spree of an elusive, yet dangerous, killer that always strikes on Valentine’s Day. Two co-workers, Ally (Olivia Holt) and Jay (Mason Gooding), find themselves caught in the sightline of the Heart Eyes Killer when some accidental events align. Now, with the killer on their trail, Ally and Jay are forced to work together, spending the night on the run.
What better way than to make a threat completely terrifying than in the film’s first few moments? That’s exactly what audiences will be treated to as Heart Eyes opens up with an over-emphasized engagement proposal that’s got those hints of irony. The writing here never takes itself too seriously and it really makes you suspenseful because you know that the killer will eventually show up. When the Heart Eyes Killer actually shows up, there’s a tonal whiplash that really kicks the film into high gear with an all-out chase. The mixing of music and editing also heightens that tension even more, creating these mood swings to keep you hooked. This entire introduction scene truly helps establish what the Heart Eyes Killer is capable of once we’re introduced to Ally and Jay.
Ally and Jay may seem like the stereotypical “will-they, won’t they” couple initially, but there’s more that makes them compelling. Ally’s work-first, somewhat introverted personality could make her annoying to some, but she actually has so much going on in her life. The reason why Ally’s the way she is is handled very well, with Phillip Murphy, Christopher Landon, Michael Kennedy’s writing giving the character the depth she needs. Olivia Holt is simply amazing as Ally, especially when she gets into those scary moments that get you on the edge of your seat.
Holt’s chemistry with Gooding also really carries the film. Gooding’s Jay is charming and witty in every scene, especially in the first act. However, when he begins to open up, much like Ally, his motives are very understandable. With Ruben’s humor also incorporated, Holt and Gooding have a hilarious riff as they play off each other. Together, Holt and Gooding are a magnetic duo that is impressive in every way as Heart Eyes pushes them to the next level.
As for Heart Eyes’s story, Ruben masterfully blends comedy and horror to create a thrilling experience. It’s split into two different parts in its acts, with its romantic elements taking charge in the first and going into full horror in the second. Yet, it’s all connected through this idea that not everyone can find love until the right person comes along. As Ally and Jay build on their connection, the film is able to show this through the small, yet important, interactions they share.
Of course, Heart Eyes’s story is also filled with many twists and turns that make you think hard. It does a good job of hiding the identity of the killer as the framing of certain scenes forces you to believe in a particular scenario. The scares and confrontations between Ally, Jay, and the killer definitely help in throwing you off the scent of who it can be. Although the killer’s identity is much clearer by the end of the second act, the film is subtle enough to keep you fully engaged.
Heart Eyes also has some great performances outside of Olivia Holt and Mason Gooding to round out the cast. Gigi Zumbado is undeniably hysterical as she plays Ally’s relatable friend, inserting these side notes about her messy romantic life. The conversations they share are really funny, though they also influence the arc Ally goes through with Jay. Meanwhile, Devon Sawa and Jordana Brewster absolutely rock as Detective Hobbs and Shaw (reference intended.) Their work-relationship leads to some hilarious situations, though Brewster’s Shaw is especially horny, in more ways than one.
Overall, Heart Eyes is an absolutely entertaining and spine-chilling movie that is a perfect Valentine’s Day watch. With awesome performances from the cast to those bloody and gruesome scares, this film perfectly fits into the roster of slasher films. Heart Eyes has solidified Josh Ruben as a filmmaker who will inspire many horror films to come after coming a long way since Dropout!
Rating
★★★★
Heart Eyes premieres in theaters Friday, February 7.
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Christopher Gallardo is a freelance entertainment writer and critic. While not running The Reel Roller, Chris can be found writing reviews and breakdowns on all things films and TV. Outside of entertainment writing, he’s currently taking classes for a Bachelor’s of Science with a minor in Digital Media & Journalism. Plus, he loves Percy Jackson, animated films and shows, and Fallout! Follow Christopher on Instagram & X.
Heart Eyes Review
Heart Eyes Review