Lucy Hale stars in the new horror-comedy "F Marry Kill," where she embodies Eva, a recently single woman from Colorado who's putting herself back on the dating scene after the end of her long-term relationship. But this isn’t just any ordinary dating story; it’s set against the haunting backdrop of a serial killer dubbed the Swipe Right Killer, who has made online dating extremely dangerous.
Determined to have some fun and regain control of her love life, Eva turns to dating apps. Her adventurous spirit leads her to three potential suitors: Kyle, the charming veterinarian; Norman, the intriguing security installer; and Mitch, who possesses his own set of mysterious traits. Yet, as her new love life unfurls, so does the chilling mystery surrounding the killer.
Director Laura Murphy masterfully blends humor with suspense, capturing the audience's attention with both laugh-out-loud moments and spine-tingling tension. "F Marry Kill" is described as the girls' night movie many women might find both entertaining and relatable. "There’s nothing quite like a good whodunnit," says film critic Katie Parker, alluding to the captivating narrative style.
Strikingly, the movie tackles timely themes as it humorously explores the modern dating world through the lens of horror. Eva, like many women today, navigates her romantic interests with caution, not to mention having her own true crime podcast obsession to influence her suspicions. Fearful of potential dangers, she stays alert as she begins to notice unsettling patterns revolving around her dates.
The clues pointing toward the identity of the Swipe Right Killer are as varied as Eva's potential love interests. Firstly, there's the circulating rumor about the killer’s background, which might include forensic science—a detail reflected by Norman's profession as he installs security systems. Could he be hiding something? The plot thickens when empty rosé bottles turn up at victims' homes, leading directly to Kyle, who enthusiastically orders the same drink on his date with Eva.
To add to the smoking gun evidence, the discovery of ambiguous fingerprints ties to Mitch, who seems to have otherworldly qualities, including the fact he has no fingerprints at all! The suspicions escalate when it becomes evident all three men wear size 10 sneakers—the very size linked to the bloody footprints left at crime scenes. Every detail feeds the viewer's anxious curiosity, as audiences are left guessing just who among Eva's chosen suitors is involved.
Adding comedic layers to the tension, Eva’s preparation for her dates often entails listening to stories of gruesome murders on her favorite podcasts. Her sister being playfully intrusive only exacerbates the humor, as she bursts through doors wearing ski masks, testing Eva’s self-defense preparedness. Amidst this playful banter, the film never shies away from the constant threat women face from men, turning what is often mundane anxiety about dating and interactions with men to find humor. "If you don’t laugh you’ll cry, right?" Parker notes, encapsulating the balance the film strikes between joy and dread.
While the fear of online dating persists, "F Marry Kill" stands as proof of how horror and comedy can make compelling bedfellows against this tremor-inducing backdrop. Lucy Hale shines as Eva, showcasing her remarkable blend of comedic timing and relatability as she stumbles through her misadventures with palpable chemistry alongside her suitors. The film sets itself apart with its distinctly female perspective and cleverly arranged plot twists, allowing viewers to celebrate the intricacies of female bonding over laughter and frights.
With well-rounded supporting performances from its male cast, the film delivers enough thrills and spills to leave audiences both amused and engaged. By interweaving genuine female experiences with thrilling narratives, "F Marry Kill" highlights how humor can serve as both coping strategy and entertainment—a much-needed outlet amid chaos.
"F Marry Kill" may not alter the course of cinema, but with its lively script and charming performances, it presents itself as the antidote many are seeking during dark times. With the charmingly silly premise and relatable themes, audiences are sure to enjoy this film, providing the perfect option for those seeking to unwind with friends over the latest whodunnit. It’s now available for streaming on Prime Video, ensuring viewers don't miss out on this delightful experience.