Alerts Sign-up
Roses are red, but so is the violence in the Valentine’s Day-themed slasher film "Heart Eyes," directed by Josh Ruben and released by Screen Gems. The movie intertwines elements of romantic comedy with a crime spree narrative, yet its excessive gore overshadows potential as a thriller.
The plot follows Ally, a Seattle-based advertising agent played by Olivia Holt, who encounters Jay, portrayed by Mason Gooding, at a coffee shop. Their initial meeting turns problematic when Ally inadvertently injures Jay. Despite this mishap and their workplace rivalry—Jay is brought in to save Ally's latest campaign—the two find themselves drawn to each other.
As headlines report the return of a masked serial killer targeting couples every February 14th, Ally and Jay become embroiled in the chaos. Their relationship develops while they attempt to evade the killer's pursuit.
Throughout their ordeal, Ally's skepticism about love contrasts with Jay's romantic nature. However, attempts to build depth in their characters are overshadowed by intense violence and graphic scenes depicting brutal homicides.
The film includes extreme bloody violence and disturbing visuals along with brief irreverent humor and sexual comedy. It features instances of profanity, crass talk, numerous crude terms, obscene gestures, pervasive rough language, and about a dozen mild oaths. OSV News classifies it as morally offensive (O), while the Motion Picture Association rates it R for restricted audiences under 17 without an adult guardian.
John Mulderig reviews media for OSV News and can be followed on X @JohnMulderig1.
