Valentine’s Day is one of the holidays that people either look forward to or absolutely want to have nothing to do with it, avoiding any celebration. Horror films are about the same way with many people (at least some that I know), as there are those who love to be entertained with anything bloody or scary and others who absolutely abstain from viewing anything remotely appearing to be horror. Well for those film fans who can enjoy both romantic comedy and horror films, Heart Eyes arrives as an option to view with your friends or sweethearts. Josh Ruben (Werewolves Within) directs the script written by Christopher Landon (Happy Death Day), Michael Kennedy, and Phillip Murphy and delivers enough entertainment to have the audience laugh one moment and cringe at some of the violence by the masked killer (known as Heart Eyes).
There are jump scares and I admit to falling for the first few until I settled into the film story and could anticipate more of what was to come. Ally (Olivia Holt, Totally Killer, “Cloak & Dagger” TV series) works in marketing and has an important campaign due for Valentine’s Day – one that is difficult for her as her ex- boyfriend is now with another. The presentation is a bomb, the boss humiliates her and then brings in a marketing executive that is highly sought after to take over, Jay (Mason Gooding, Scream, Scream VI). In less than 24 hours they must create a new campaign, but they discover unexpectedly they can become a team and save their lives from the masked killer.
Although they are not a couple, the Heart Eyes killer sees them out for dinner and has a new target. Ally and Jay repeatedly tell everyone they are NOT a couple, but actions seem contrary. Holt and Gooding have great chemistry, and they can pull off some good comedy.
There are some great scenes by some of the supporting cast, including Gigi Zumbado (“Bridge and Tunnel” TV series) who stars as Ally’s best friend and co-worker. She captured my attention with her comedic role and hope to see her past/future work. Also shining in this film is Jordana Brewster who plays a cop and has a great role in the film which I will not spoil here. I am glad to see her in this horror comedy film after seeing her as Mia Toretto in so many of The Fast and the Furious films (as well as “As the World Turns” TV series from 1985-2001).
Don’t be surprised if some of the script reminds you of Happy Death Day (or Scream), but it is still wholly enjoyable if you are a fan of the mixed genre film described above.
Rated R, 1 hour 37 minutes and in theaters on February 7th.
Source: Sony Pictures
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