Heart Eyes Review
REVIEW
✦
REVIEW ✦
Heart Eyes, the new slasher comedy from Spyglass Media Group, isn't aiming to reinvent the wheel, but it's definitely having a blast driving it. And while the film's trajectory is somewhat predictable to established genre fans, the sheer exuberance of its execution, coupled with a genuinely charming central duo, makes for a thoroughly entertaining experience.
Heart Eyes (2025) | Sony Pictures and Spyglass Media Group
A Sharp Horror-Comedy Script
One of the keys to Heart Eyes’ success lies in its script, which deftly walks the tightrope between horror and comedy. While the film leans heavily into humor, it doesn't sacrifice the necessary slasher elements. The jokes land more often than not, ranging from witty one-liners to slapstick silliness, and they're woven seamlessly into the narrative. This isn't a film that uses comedy to deflate the tension entirely; instead, it uses humor to enhance the overall experience, making the scares more impactful by contrasting them with moments of levity.
This balance is crucial in the horror-comedy genre, and Heart Eyes nails it. Think Shaun of the Dead meets Happy Death Day, with a dash of My Bloody Valentine—it's that kind of playful, self-aware horror. The humor isn't just tacked on either; it's integral to the story and the characters, driving the plot forward and keeping the audience engaged even when the plot beats become predictable.
A Memorable Duo
The heart of Heart Eyes (low-hanging pun intended) lies in the chemistry between its two leads, Olivia Holt and Mason Gooding. Their dynamic is arguably the film's strongest asset, elevating the predictable romantic subplot into something genuinely worthwhile. They embody the classic "opposites attract" trope, but their performances inject fresh energy into the familiar formula.
Both Holt and Gooding manage to play off each other perfectly, delivering effective examples of comedic timing and moments of genuine warmth. It's this dynamic that keeps the audience invested in their fate, even when the bodies start piling up. While often played for laughs, their relationship becomes the film's emotional core, adding depth that many modern slasher stories often lack. They aren't just running from a killer; they're navigating the awkwardness of new love, adding a relatable dimension to the otherwise outlandish scenario.
Heart Eyes (2025) | Sony Pictures and Spyglass Media Group
Scares and Gore: A Retro-Modern Blend
Heart Eyes doesn't shy away from the gore, embracing the splatter-filled legacy of its 80s predecessors. The kills are creative and often over-the-top, providing the requisite blood and guts that slasher fans crave. However, the film doesn't rely solely on shock value. It also incorporates elements of modern horror, utilizing suspense and psychological thrills to build tension.
While the gore is certainly present, it's not too gratuitous. It typically serves the story and enhances the horror, rather than being the sole focus. The practical effects are also impressive, adding a visceral quality to the violence that CGI often lacks. This blend of old-school practical effects and modern horror sensibilities creates a unique visual style that is both familiar and fresh—paying homage to the classics while still offering something new, making it a treat for hardcore genre fans.
Entertaining Despite its Evident Trajectory
Let's be honest: Heart Eyes isn't likely going to shock audiences with its unmasking. The killer reveal is something you'll likely see coming a mile away, and the ending, while satisfying, feels predictable given the film's romantic core. However, the film's biggest weakness is also part of its charm. It knows what it is, and it doesn't try to be anything else. It embraces the tropes of the slasher genre, playing with them and subverting them just enough to keep things interesting. While the plot may be predictable, the journey is anything but.
The film is so relentlessly entertaining and so full of energy and charm that its predictability almost doesn't matter. It's a reminder of the power of well-executed genre filmmaking. Even if you know where the story is going, the ride is still enjoyable, thanks to the engaging characters, the sharp script, and the creative kills.
Score: 7.5/10
In essence, Heart Eyes is a fun, bloody, and surprisingly charming slasher comedy. It's not necessarily looking to be perceived as a genre masterpiece, but it's certainly a damn good time.
