New Slasher Horror Movie Villain Set to Become Iconic Like Leatherface, Freddy Krueger & Jason: Stars Explain the “It Factor”

The upcoming film Heart Eyes is generating considerable excitement, with its cast members—Devon Sawa, Gigi Zumbado, and Jordana Brewster—suggesting that the movie’s central villain could rival iconic figures in the slasher genre like Freddy Krueger, Jason Voorhees, and Leatherface. Directed by Josh Ruben, known for Werewolves Within, Heart Eyes is set to premiere on February 7. The story revolves around two colleagues who are mistaken for a couple while working on Valentine’s Day, making them prime targets for the notorious Heart Eyes Killer. The film boasts a strong ensemble, including Olivia Holt, Michaela Watkins, and Mason Gooding, and aims to make a significant impact at the box office during the Valentine’s weekend.

In an exclusive discussion with Screen Rant’s Joe Deckelmeier, the actors shared their thoughts on the movie’s killer and pondered whether this character could ascend to the ranks of slasher film legends. Sawa highlighted the uniqueness of the killer’s design as a critical factor in achieving such iconic status. Brewster pointed out the chilling nature of the mask, an aspect both she and Zumbado found unsettling. Collectively, they expressed confidence that the Heart Eyes Killer possesses the essential traits to become an enduring symbol of horror.

Screen Rant: Devon, you are no stranger to the horror genre, with Final Destination and Chucky. What do you think makes the Heart Eyes killer a potential new icon in the slasher genre?

Sawa: He’s original. He has an original look; his way of killing is original. It’s a vibrant feel. You’ve got to have that It factor as a killer and as a slasher, and he’s got that. He or she has that It factor; that kind of Leatherface, that Krueger, that Jason feeling.

Brewster: His silhouette is so creepy because it’s alien-like, and then with the stitches in the back and the veins? I was really put off by the mask, as the audience should be.

Zumbado: It’s incredibly well-made. If you actually hold it and look at it, and the lighting that happens with the eyes and everything; the night vision? It’s an incredibly well-developed mask.

Implications of These Remarks for Heart Eyes

Sawa’s Comments Offer Hope to Slasher Aficionados

Devon Sawa’s endorsement is indeed a significant asset for the film and its central character. With a history of starring in notable horror films such as Idle Hands and Final Destination, along with roles in the Chucky series, Sawa’s views can understandably heighten anticipation for Heart Eyes. Equally, Brewster’s experience with iconic horror films like The Faculty and Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning reinforces her credibility when she draws parallels between the film and legendary characters like Leatherface. Zumbado, too, has made her mark in the genre through her work in Tone-Deaf and an episode of the Scream TV series.

The recent success of Terrifier 3 illustrates a growing appetite among modern audiences for intensely graphic horror, indicating that they are open to embracing new slasher icons. The evolution of the slasher genre hinges on not just the killer’s unique features but also a lasting legacy established through memorable visuals and original kills. While iconic figures like Freddy Krueger, Jason Voorhees, and Leatherface are universally recognized, the Heart Eyes Killer seeks to carve out a similar niche. As suggested by the cast’s discussions, the killer’s striking appearance, method of execution, and eerie mask could play a critical role in building a dedicated following.

Evaluating the Heart Eyes Killer’s Potential for Cult Status

The Search for Legacy Amidst Enthusiastic Modern Audiences

Achieving legendary status in the slasher genre is no easy task. For Heart Eyes to secure a spot among iconic franchises, it will likely require multiple sequels to establish its character’s legacy. Nonetheless, the insights shared by its stars provide a glimmer of hope. The contemporary horror landscape, as evidenced by Terrifier 3‘s formidable success, suggests that today’s audiences are receptive to visceral and intense horror narratives while eagerly awaiting new figures to join the realm of cult classics. Heart Eyes appears poised to potentially introduce a significant new slasher icon, bolstered by the optimistic outlook of its cast.

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