Heart Eyes

Name: New Zealand Film Commission
Price range: $

International Production

Feature 2025 Horror 97 minutes

Heart Eyes was filmed entirely in Auckland, New Zealand, with a production split of 35% in a studio setting (Mt Wellington warehouse) and 65% on location throughout Auckland CBD and greater Auckland, extending as far as Matakana. Auckland is an ideal double for Seattle, Washington as it has many of the same features as Seattle, including a metropolitan feel, natural landscapes, seaside location and iconic landmarks. The iconic Auckland sites featured in the film include The Wintergarden, Auckland Domain, Waiheke Island, Silo Park and Wynyard Quarter, with extensive night shoots utilising large-scale lighting rigs and cranes to capture the city’s unique atmosphere.

Production Companies

The film was a collaboration between the US-based Spyglass Media and New Zealand’s Ground Control NZ, utilising 99% local crew, with approximately 450 Kiwi crew members contributing to the project. The cast was also predominantly New Zealand-based, with 85% of the performers hailing from the country, supported by a mix of seven US cast members and 40 New Zealand actors (excluding background extras, all of whom were local). While Heart Eyes was led by a US-based directorial and production team, it was brought to life through the dedication of a largely New Zealand-based crew.

Post-Production

Post-production was handled by New Zealand’s renowned Park Road Post, which managed all sound post-production and DI (Digital Intermediate) delivery, ensuring a high-quality finish to the film.

Technical Aspects

A defining feature of the production was its extensive night shoots, requiring elaborate lighting setups, including large-scale rigging and crane operations. These technical achievements were crucial in capturing the atmospheric tension and immersive visuals of the film, particularly in some of Auckland’s most recognisable landmarks.

Through a dynamic partnership between US and New Zealand industry professionals, Heart Eyes is a testament to the world-class filmmaking capabilities present in New Zealand, combining international vision with local talent to bring a compelling cinematic experience to life.