Josh Ruben’s Heart Eyes (2025) continues the director’s increasing track record of blending horror with sharp comedic sensibilities. With a strong cast featuring Olivia Hoult, Mason Gooding, Jordana Brewster, and Devon Sawa, the film injects energy into a genre that thrives on familiar tropes but struggles to fully subvert them.

The film follows two co-workers working late on Valentine’s Day who find themselves mistaken for a couple by the elusive “Heart Eyes Killer.” What should have been a routine night of overtime turns into a desperate struggle for survival as they attempt to outwit a murderer with a romantic vendetta. Ruben, alongside the influence of Christopher Landon, crafts a thrilling yet darkly comedic atmosphere, elevating the film above standard slasher fare.

One of Heart Eyes’ strongest assets is its cast. Olivia Hoult and Mason Gooding deliver an engaging dynamic, their chemistry adding an element of screwball charm reminiscent of classic comedies like His Girl Friday, which fittingly plays at the local drive-in. Jordana Brewster and Devon Sawa add gravitas, balancing the film’s mix of humour and suspense. Each actor brings a spark that keeps the film’s momentum going, even when the script leans into predictability.

When it comes to slasher sequences, Heart Eyes delivers with some truly creative and intense set pieces. Ruben ensures that the kills are visually engaging and suspensefully executed, but the film often treads a fine line between homage and predictability. While it never loses its charm, seasoned horror fans may find the plot’s trajectory a little too easy to anticipate.

The Prognosis:

Heart Eyes is a fun, well-acted, and stylish slasher that balances humour and horror with flair. The chemistry of its leads and its nods to classic cinema add a refreshing touch, but it ultimately doesn’t push the boundaries of the genre enough to be truly groundbreaking. Nevertheless, it’s a solid entry in Josh Ruben’s growing filmography and a Valentine’s Day horror treat worth watching.

• Saul Muerte