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Irish connection to Valentine's Day slasher-rom-com revealed

Dermot "Spyder" Sympson features on the soundtrack to 'Heart Eyes'
Dermot "Spyder" Sympson features on the soundtrack to 'Heart Eyes'

This Valentine's Day, moviegoers in Ireland are being treated to Heart Eyes, a Hollywood hybrid slasher-romantic comedy that offers an unlikely mix of romance and gore.

But beyond the blood and suspense, the film carries an unexpected Irish connection.

It comes via a pivotal moment in the movie, where meet-cute protagonists Ally (Olivia Holt) and Jay (Mason Gooding), share an awkward cab ride.

As they converse, a dreamy '80s love song plays in the background, setting the mood.

The track in question, Are You In Love?, is performed by Dermot "Spyder" Sympson, a much-missed pop star from Drogheda, Ireland, whose tragic death in 1992 left fans mourning the loss of a rising talent.

Sympson, known for his striking blonde hair and soulful voice, was on the verge of a major breakthrough in the 80s when fate took a devastating turn. After a gig in 1987, he was involved in a car accident that left him with serious injuries.

He sadly passed away just five years later, at the age of 27, in what became one of rock's most heartbreaking "27 Club" stories.

With its shimmering synths and romantic lyrics, his track Are You In Love? remains a choice snapshot of the '80s synth-pop era - now it's being rediscovered by a new generation of listeners, thanks to its inclusion in Heart Eyes.

Fans can find the full song on YouTube, as well as on various streaming platforms.

Heart Eyes is currently on release in cinemas nationwide.

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