In a serendipitous encounter at the 2023 Oscars, Ariana DeBose and Ke Huy Quan’s paths crossed, leading to a collaboration that would captivate audiences worldwide. Their shared passion for storytelling and mutual respect for each other’s craft culminated in the action-comedy film “Love Hurts,” which premiered on February 14, 2025.
A Serendipitous Meeting
At the 2023 Academy Awards, DeBose and Quan found themselves seated next to each other, sparking an immediate connection. DeBose, fresh off her Oscar win for “West Side Story,” and Quan, who had recently returned to acting with “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” engaged in deep conversations about their careers and aspirations. This fortuitous meeting laid the groundwork for a professional partnership that would soon flourish.
The Genesis of ‘Love Hurts’
Inspired by their shared vision, DeBose and Quan began discussing potential projects. They envisioned a film that blended action and comedy, featuring a retired hitman drawn back into the underworld. Their enthusiasm caught the attention of director Jonathan Eusebio, known for his work on the “John Wick” series, who agreed to helm the project. The trio collaborated closely, infusing the script with dynamic action sequences and heartfelt moments.
Plot and Characters
“Love Hurts” follows Marvin Gable (Ke Huy Quan), a former hitman turned real estate agent, who is reluctantly pulled back into the criminal world when his past resurfaces. Ariana DeBose portrays Rose, a mysterious woman with her own hidden agenda, whose path intertwines with Marvin’s, leading to unexpected alliances and confrontations. The film explores themes of redemption, love, and the complexities of human relationships.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, “Love Hurts” received mixed reviews. The New York Post described it as “a perfect breakup movie for couples,” citing its violent and bloody scenes that aim for humor but fall flat, resulting in a painful viewing experience.
Similarly, Vulture questioned its cinematic validity, stating that the film “fails to deliver on its ambitious premise of combining romantic elements with a retired-killer-returns narrative.”
Conversely, Medium offered a more favorable perspective, suggesting that “Love Hurts” is “a Valentine’s Day movie worth watching,” appreciating its unique take on the action-comedy genre.
Behind the Scenes
The film’s production was marked by a strong sense of camaraderie among the cast and crew. DeBose and Quan’s genuine friendship translated into authentic on-screen chemistry, enhancing the film’s emotional depth. Director Jonathan Eusebio’s choreography of action sequences drew from his extensive experience in martial arts and stunt coordination, ensuring that the fight scenes were both thrilling and visually captivating.
Looking Ahead
“Love Hurts” has sparked discussions about the evolving landscape of action-comedy films, blending intense action with heartfelt storytelling. The collaboration between DeBose and Quan has been hailed as a testament to the power of unexpected partnerships in the entertainment industry. As both actors continue to expand their repertoires, audiences eagerly anticipate their future projects, hoping for more collaborations that push the boundaries of genre and storytelling.
For a deeper insight into the making of “Love Hurts” and the dynamic between its stars, you can watch the following interview:
