By Maalik Hawkins
Trinity Times Movie Reviewer

There is always something special about a double feature at the movies, most notably during the Valentine’s Day weekend. So, for the 2025 holiday, I’m offering a look at two fun flicks for a twin romantic adventure.

Whether you’re spending the time alone or with a partner, these movies – “Companion” and “Heart Eyes” – are great choices that will get your heart racing and the romantic vibes flowing.

Finding a venue that is showing these two films as a double feature may not be possible, but if you’re able to find them playing in the same movie house, that could make for a double-fun date.

If you think horror films are inappropriate for Valentine’s Day, think again, because the holiday has a dark origin. 

Third-century Roman Emperor Claudius II executed two men — both named Valentine — on Feb. 14 of different years. The Catholic Church honored the martyrdom of both men with the celebration of St. Valentine’s Day.

Companion

“Companion” is categorized as a science fiction comedy thriller by Newline Cinema. It was written and directed by Drew Hancock, who isn’t widely known in the industry yet. However, I trust this film will help establish his reputation among cinephiles and critics alike. 

This film features actress Sophie Thatcher (Yellowjackets) as Iris and actor Jack Quaid (The Boys) as Josh. It centers around Josh and Iris, a couple who embarked on a getaway with friends at a luxury cabin. At first glance, they appear to be a typical couple. However, it is revealed early on that Iris is a relationship bot designed specifically to be in a romantic coupling with Josh. 

An unexpected tragedy strikes, causing chaos among the group of friends.

The acting among of the main cast is outstanding. Thatcher delivers an A+ performance as a robot, while Quaid plays his character differently than the quirky, nice, charming guy in previous roles, yet maintains those background characteristics in his presentation. 

“Companion” explores the theme of ownership in relationships and the human desire for perfection, even though we know it’s unattainable. It carries profound meaning and features unexpected twists throughout.

It’s a thoughtful watch for anyone, especially those in a relationship. If you’re looking for a stimulating film that combines science fiction with a touch of romance, this one is for you. 

Everyday Moviegoers – 9/10
Critics – 9.4/10
Cinephiles – 9/10

—

Heart Eyes

“Heart Eyes” is a romantic comedy slasher from the production studio Screen Gems, directed by Washington native Josh Ruben, who is known for other comedy-horror films like “Werewolves Within” and “Scare Me.” 

This film stars Olivia Holt (Cruel Summer) as Ally, who works as a pitch designer at the headquarters of a jewelry company. It also features Mason Gooding, the son of Oscar winner Cuba Gooding Jr., as Jay, a famous designer assigned to assist Ally with her recent pitch, which was deemed offensive. 

“Heart Eyes” follows a Valentine’s Day killer named Heart Eyes, who has killed couples across the United States every Valentine’s Day for the past few years. Heart Eyes randomly picks any couple he sees on Valentine’s Day, thus permanently ending their romantic holiday. 

Jay and Ally end up on the hit list of the Heart Eyes killer after having a platonic dinner together, mistaking them as a romantic paring. Throughout the entire film, there is a recurring joke where they repetitively tell the killer that they are not in a romantic relationship. 

This movie is fun, lighthearted, gory, and filled with humor. It comically critiques the clichés found in the romance genre.

Holt and Gooding have great chemistry, which will hopefully be repeated in future films. Both actors routinely turn in great performances, making it no surprise that they really brought it to this movie.

Good luck in unraveling the identity of the killer before the end of the flick, because it was impossible for me. 

It’s a perfect movie for a couple looking for a good laugh and some gory slashes.

Everyday Moviegoers – 8.2/10
Critics – 8/10
Cinephiles – 8/10

—

Maalik Hawkins is a recent graduate of Trinity Washington University.