The Runner

Apparently Shudder has gotten looser with its definition of horror movie.

It's basically a long music video that cuts to documentary/behind the scenes with some band no one has ever heard of.

The last 5 minutes are some awkward white kid singing and dancing in front of the camera.

I discovered the movie via the band Boy Harsher, which I've been following for a couple of years. I was intrigued by the soundtrack album they release the same day the released the movie I guess. Musically, it's their pinnacle for me, it's so good in all aspects.

The movie serves more as visual arabesques to the music, and, on my opinion, isn't really a standalone thing.

I enjoyed the first part, but then the movie ended without any kind of resolving. In all other aspects except this, the film is nice. It captures Cronnenberg-ish atmosphere and is great at creating a proper 80s horror B-Movie. If you are a fan of a band like I am you can watch it, otherwise, I'd better recommend to rewatch some classics which obviously inspired this film (like, say, Videodrome).

This would've been really really good if it was just the music videos/tv broadcast. That was actually pretty awesome. Everything else is unfortunately produced like a low tier student film & really goes nowhere. Also shudder is lame...

Been a fan of Boy Harsher for a while and didn't know anything about this film when I hit play. I wish more bands were this artistic and experimental in cinematic ways.

The Runner (2022) follows a strange, bloodied woman when she travels to a secluded, rural town. This short film is a hidden gem! It showcases some brilliant music, alongside experimental cinematography and unique acting. I've never seen anything like it!

The film has a very grainy look to it reminiscent of older 70s/80s horror films, with some very impressive cinematography. The camerawork is chaotic with ominous colour palettes and an effective use of lighting. The scenery is also rather beautiful, especially in the final act of the film.

One of the most impressive elements of this short film is the music and sound design. The sound is unnerving and atmospheric, and the soundtrack is absolutely flawless. I adore how the music is implemented into this film; it sets an extremely surreal vibe that I found incredibly immersive.

The acting is very unusual, which I loved, and all the actors gave original and distinct performances. The lead actress is outstanding in her role and I found her to be captivating to watch, I was left wanting to know more about her! Also, the lack of dialogue really adds to the eerie atmosphere.

Lastly, the film's opening is gripping, and it only continues to get even more immersive as the movie progresses. It's extremely unique and unlike any other film I've seen. The pacing is steady, and it uses its runtime very well.