Director Josh Ruben Discusses Horror, Slashers, and the Iconic Trailer Scene in ‘Heart Eyes’ Interview

Renowned filmmaker Josh Ruben continues to captivate audiences with his latest horror-comedy, Heart Eyes. In an insightful interview with The Mary Sue, he shared details about the film’s creative process, its emotional depth, and the nostalgic tribute to classic horror showcased in the trailer.

Heart Eyes: A Unique Approach to Horror

From the very beginning, Josh Ruben aimed to distinguish Heart Eyes within the bustling slasher genre. Rather than reducing characters to mere victims, he emphasized depth in character development.“The brutality was always there, that was always the North Star, ” Ruben remarked, highlighting the film’s intense yet emotionally resonant narrative.

One of the most significant challenges for Ruben was establishing chemistry between his lead actors, Mason Gooding and Olivia Holt.“We were uncertain if they were going to connect, if there was going to be any spark between them. Surprisingly, we didn’t even do a chemistry read, ” he noted. Ruben considered himself fortunate that the two actors had an undeniable connection, enhancing the film’s emotional stakes.

Ruben further stressed, “The movie lives or dies by the chemistry. Just like in rom-coms, the lead pair must resonate with the audience.” This thoughtful approach ensures viewers root for Jay and Ally, the film’s main characters, not only because of their struggle for survival but also due to their authentic and relatable interactions.

Homage to Horror: An Iconic Scene

One particular moment in the trailer has quickly become a fan favorite: the demise of a hippie couple, which serves as a nod to horror classics. The scene, where the camera retreats through a victim’s wound, echoes imagery from the 2003 remake of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.

Ruben acknowledged that while the homage was intentional, he amusingly admitted, “I’ve never actually seen the full film, only the trailer.” His inspiration for revisiting such memorable shots is rooted in a love for unexpected and inventive horror moments.“As a massive Sam Raimi enthusiast, I adore films like Drag Me to Hell and Darkman. I thrive on crafting inventive kills, ” he stated.

His vision extends beyond traditional gore; Ruben seeks to elevate the cinematic experience by surprising the audience. He recounted, “It’s essential to have a serial killer invade a drive-in on Valentine’s Day where couples are expected to enjoy romance, and not expect some form of carnage. It’s a given!”

Despite its graphic content, Ruben emphasizes that Heart Eyes serves as a genuine tribute to the horror genre and its devoted fans.“This film can be enjoyed as a date movie for both romantics and anti-romantics alike, ” he remarked, making a case for its broad appeal.

Mark Your Calendar for Date Night!

In Heart Eyes, Ruben artfully balances intricate character relationships with spine-chilling thrills and nods to the illustrious history of horror cinema. Releasing on February 7, 2025, this film promises to be an ideal choice for horror enthusiasts, lovers, and even those shunning Valentine’s Day celebrations. It’s an upcoming cinematic experience you won’t want to miss!

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