MediaMaker Spotlight

Slashing Rom-Com and Horror Tropes with Heart Eyes Writer

Women in Film and Video (DC) Episode 110

Host Tara Jabbari talks with Michael Kennedy, one of the screenwriters and executive producers of the rom-com slasher horror film, Heart Eyes. Released a week before Valentine’s Day in February 2025, Heart Eyes - directed by Josh Ruben and starring Olivia Holt and Mason Gooding - was met with positive reviews and grossed nearly $30 million in its first month. In their conversation, Tara and Michael discuss his experience writing solo versus with a writing partner. They talk about how each department on Heart Eyes incorporated various tropes, homages, and much more. In time for the Halloween season, Heart Eyes is now available to stream on various platforms, including Netflix. 

Watch the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cRzZcMlJh8

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