Heart Eyes: A New Slasher Icon Emerges
Heart Eyes aspires to introduce a contemporary slasher icon, and star Devon Sawa believes it possesses the flair to rival legendary figures like Michael Myers or Freddy Krueger. With its distinct heart-eye goggles adorning the killer’s mask, the film establishes a memorable visual identity. The screenplay, crafted by Christopher Landon, Michael Kennedy, and Phillip Murphy, provides director Josh Ruben with ample creative material, enabling him to adeptly navigate between genres.
In a unique blend of romance and horror, Heart Eyes follows the story of Ally and Jay, portrayed by Olivia Holt and Mason Gooding, who unwittingly become partners in a jewelry advertisement. Just as their relationship appears to blossom, they are abruptly interrupted by the notorious Heart Eyes Killer, compelling them to band together for survival as the killer embarks on a series of increasingly imaginative murders. The ensemble cast also features Jordana Brewster as Detective Hobbs and Devon Sawa as Detective Shaw, whose comedic chemistry adds depth, with Gigi Zumbado playing Ally’s supportive best friend, Monica, who strives to help her fend off grief and danger simultaneously.
The Heart Eyes Cast Discuss Their Roles
Meet Detectives Hobbs and Shaw
ScreenRant: How do your characters, Detectives Jeanine Shaw and Zeke Hobbs, fit into the film’s narrative?
Jordana Brewster: Jeanine is quite similar to Jodie Foster’s character in The Silence of the Lambs. She has an innate ability to uncover the truth, and her dedication to her job defines her life.
Devon Sawa: Definitely, they are arguably the best cops, not just in Washington but in all of America. True go-getters.
Monica: Ally’s Supportive Friend
ScreenRant: Gigi, as Ally’s outspoken best friend Monica, how does she impact the romantic and horror dynamics?
Gigi Zumbado: Every horror movie needs that cheerleader rooting for the protagonist. While I can’t say if Ally is the final girl, Monica is definitely there to rally behind her, providing support and a much-needed makeover.
The juxtaposition of romantic music with the horror elements creates a fascinating effect. Some romantic songs, examined closely, could even seem a bit creepy or obsessive, which heightens the tension in our film.
Will The Heart Eyes Killer Become the Next Horror Icon?
A Newly Crafted Legend?
ScreenRant: Devon, based on your experience in horror classics like Final Destination, what sets the Heart Eyes killer apart as a potential new slasher icon?
Devon Sawa: This killer is incredibly original, from their distinct appearance to their unique killing methods. The character embodies a certain “It”factor reminiscent of past horror legends like Leatherface and Jason. Being part of this universe is surreal, especially when I witness my children celebrating Halloween as characters from films I’ve worked on.
The On-Screen Dynamic
ScreenRant: How did you and Devon establish the dynamic between Hobbs and Shaw, particularly amid the comedy?
Jordana Brewster: Devon’s delivery of those outrageous lines made it easy for me to react naturally. His over-the-top approach really added comedy to the mix.
Devon Sawa: It required some serious commitment from me; I had to push my limits for those lines.
The Heart Eyes Killer’s Disturbing Aesthetic
ScreenRant: What were your initial reactions to seeing the killer’s unique look?
Jordana Brewster: The killer’s silhouette has a surreal, almost alien quality. The details like the stitches and veins amplify its unsettling nature.
Gigi Zumbado: The craftsmanship of the mask is impressive. The way it captures light, especially with those expressive eyes, is something truly remarkable.
Devon Sawa: Tony Gardner, who has a rich history in horror effects, produced this mask. The moment I laid eyes on it on set, I felt a thrill, confirming that I was part of something special.
More Insights on Heart Eyes (2025)
For several years, the Heart Eyes Killer has terrorized couples around Valentine’s Day, and this year, the threat escalates as no couple is truly safe…
- Mason Gooding & Olivia Holt
Heart Eyes is set to hit theaters on February 7, 2025.
Source: Screen Rant Plus
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