The Runner

For some, this will be seen as a visually and musically pleasing short horror film. For Boy Harsher fans, I think it takes a deeper dive into the minds of Gus and Jae, who are known to pour a lot of emotion and personal experience into their art. I hope this is the first in a series of Boy Harsher films.

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.

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.

Nobody cares about your band or your awful haircuts. Please. Don't make any more movies. What is wrong with shudder will they allow anything? It's a paying sub.

As an initial disclaimer, I am a Boy Harsher fan, eagerly awaiting their next concert, so that may have influenced my experience of the movie. That being said, the music has the power to make or break a movie. In this case, music creates it.

Is this movie an interview accompanied by a video? Or is it a story that takes you behind the scene. In my interpretation it's both, with Boy Harsher's music manifesting itself as a monster, being let loose and observed what it does next. Besides the music, the visuals struck another cord with me. Who knew that a trailer in a corn field vista, enjoying a soft neon glow could look so good?

As for acting, there was a minor moment that took me out, but besides that, characters exchanged a lot, without saying a word. A whole story unfolds when the screen fills with long stares, full of sexual tension, making you wonder: would I rather consume, or be consumed?