Love Hurts, a new action-comedy film featuring Ke Huy Quan and Ariana DeBose, combines martial arts and romance in a narrative that explores a retired hitman's struggle to protect his new life. While the film showcases impressive action sequences, it falls short in terms of plot coherence and character chemistry, leaving audiences with mixed reactions.
Love Hurts, the latest offering from 87North Productions, known for their expertise in crafting high-octane action sequences, brings a unique blend of martial arts and romance to the big screen. Starring Ke Huy Quan and Ariana DeBose, the film follows the story of Marvin Gable, a mild-mannered real estate agent with a dark past as a hitman. When his former love interest, Rose, reappears, Marvin is thrust back into a world of violence and intrigue. Despite its action-packed scenes, Love Hurts struggles to balance its romantic and comedic elements, leading to a mixed reception from critics.
Love Hurts draws inspiration from familiar action movie tropes, centering on Marvin Gable, played by Ke Huy Quan, a former hitman trying to leave his violent past behind. The film explores the theme of a retired enforcer forced back into action, reminiscent of movies like John Wick and Nobody. Marvin's past catches up with him when Rose, portrayed by Ariana DeBose, reappears, seeking revenge against Marvin's brother, Knuckles. The film attempts to blend martial arts with romantic comedy, but struggles to maintain a cohesive tone throughout its narrative [1] [3].
As expected from a film produced by 87North, Love Hurts excels in its action sequences. The film features intricate fight choreography and old-school stunts that are visually impressive. Ke Huy Quan, known for his martial arts skills, delivers convincing performances in the action scenes, though the film's reliance on these sequences sometimes overshadows the narrative. Despite the technical prowess displayed, some critics have noted that the action feels overly choreographed, detracting from the authenticity of the fight scenes [1] [4].
Love Hurts has received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its campy charm and others criticizing its lack of depth and coherence. The film's attempts to blend romance and comedy with action result in an imbalanced narrative that struggles to engage viewers. The chemistry between Quan and DeBose is questioned, with the age difference and lack of character development cited as factors affecting their on-screen relationship. Despite these shortcomings, Love Hurts offers a fun, albeit superficial, viewing experience for those who enjoy action-comedy films [2] [5].
Love Hurts delivers on its promise of action and humor, but the film's narrative shortcomings and lack of character chemistry may leave some viewers wanting more. While the action sequences are expertly crafted, the film's attempt to blend romance and comedy with martial arts results in a disjointed experience. For fans of Ke Huy Quan and 87North's action style, Love Hurts offers an entertaining, if not entirely fulfilling, cinematic experience.
""Nothing's more scary than Marshawn Lynch coming full speed at you."" - Ke Huy Quan
"A painfully uninspired proposition." - Screen Daily