For years, the Heart Eyes Killer has besieged Valentine’s Day by stalking and murdering amorous couples enjoying the holiday festivities. This year, his sights are set on new blood. Was it love at first sight when I saw this film?

Directed by Josh Ruben, it’s a serious slasher flick and a screwball rom-com seamlessly amalgamated together. The slapstick comedy hits and misses, however, it’s all part of the fun! By taking time to explore multiple unique perspectives on love while establishing character dynamics, I became so infatuated that when the horror elements came into play, it led to authentic, scary moments. People are having captivating or comical conversations when the Heart Eyes Killer strikes without warning. I hate when horror movies are over-reliant on cheap jump scares with loud musical cues. The jump scares are earned because the music is used in atypical means.

The eye-catching set designs and vibrant costumes add a delightful splash of colour juxtaposed with the darker themes. These highly stylized filmmaking techniques are prevalent immediately in the creative opening chase sequence.

I applaud how brutal this film is. The practical gore effects are spectacularly staged, although there’s too much CGI for my liking for some kills. Regardless, the Heart Eyes Killer’s mask and weapons are especially chilling! Although, it’s too soon to say if he’s an iconic character. Time will tell.

Written by Phillip Murphy, Christopher Landon, and Michael Kennedy, the script cleverly borrows from the “Scream playbook,” wrapping everything up with a logical conclusion, despite how the plot armour does feel a bit worn or how unsatisfactory the Killer’s unmasking is. I would have preferred the identity not being the revealed. There are so many good things going for it that the plot holes and conclusion don’t ruin the film.

Olivia Holt and Mason Gooding effortlessly bounce off one another with their witty banter. Their chemistry is impeccable. Who knew Gooding was such a charismatic actor? This wasn’t demonstrated in his Scream movies. Similarly, Holt shines more so than she did in Totally Killer. Such a natural rapport can’t be rehearsed.

The supporting cast, featuring Gigi Zumbado, Michaela Watkins, Jordana Brewster, and Devon Sawa, brings even more life to this already high-spirited film.

The soundtrack adds charm to this wild adventure too. There’s a deep cut from the group Outkast that surprised me because it’s from an album that came out 20 years ago, and to my recollection, the song hasn’t been used in a Valentine’s Day movie before, despite fitting so well with this particular holiday. Bravo.

Overall, it was love at first when I saw Heart Eyes. The dichotomy between screwball rom-coms and slashers is glaringly apparent. How the hysterical dialogue is coupled with the extreme brutality exceeded my expectations. Also boasting innovative direction, sharp writing, and an extraordinary cast, I highly recommended this wickedly fun slasher disguised as a rom-com. It reminds me of Shaun of the Dead (2002), Happy Death Day (2017), and Freaky (2020). I’d even go a step further. I can see this being an annual Valentine’s Day watch for me like My Bloody Valentine (1981) and Valentine (2001). Be sure to stay for the mid-credit scene, too. And remember, roses are red, violets are blue, and if you find your lover dead…. it means you’re next too.