Heart Eyes is a fresh and entertaining blend of romantic comedy and slasher horror, mixing love, laughs, and plenty of blood in a way that works surprisingly well. Directed by Josh Ruben, the film follows Ally (Olivia Holt), who is reeling from a breakup when she crosses paths with Jay (Mason Gooding), a charming jewellery designer. As the "Heart Eyes Killer" stalks Seattle, targeting couples on Valentine's Day, their awkward but endearing romance unfolds against a backdrop of escalating danger and darkly funny moments.
The film thrives on its self-awareness, cleverly playing with rom-com clichés while delivering sharp dialogue and well-timed humour. Gooding and Holt share strong chemistry, making their growing relationship both believable and genuinely amusing. While not every joke lands, the film’s playful nature helps smooth over any misfires. The slasher elements are equally well-executed, with inventive and brutal kills keeping the horror side engaging. The tension builds nicely, especially as the story hurtles towards its final, blood-soaked showdown.
That said, Heart Eyes does stumble when it comes to its plot, which at times feels unnecessarily convoluted. Its frequent winks to the audience occasionally undercut the suspense, making it harder to take the horror seriously. Some plot developments stretch logic a little too far, though the film’s stylish execution and strong set pieces help compensate for these weaker moments.
In the end, Heart Eyes is a fun, quirky rom-com slasher that delivers plenty of entertainment despite its flaws. The engaging performances, witty banter, and satisfyingly gory thrills make it a solid addition to the growing genre of horror-infused romantic comedies. It may not be perfect, but it knows exactly what it is and fully embraces the ride, ensuring audiences will be laughing and cringing in equal measure.
Rating: 7.5/10
Out now on Digital at https://apple.co/432u8BX
