The Harpies was written, filmed, and edited in 48 hours as part of the 2024 Run N Gun: Vancouver’s 48 hour Film Competition. Winner of the Run N Gun’s Best Cinematography and Best Art awards, as well as, being nominated for Best Picture, Best Editing, Best Sound, and Best Direction.
Aura is on the run from her ex-boyfriend. She is accompanied by her friend, Matt. Matt has always had an uncomfortable crush on Aura. The pair find themselves seeking shelter in an abandoned lumber mill. Unbeknownst to them; a dangerous harpy calls the mill home.
Aura’s ex, Devin, corners the pair in the mill before he is called away into the darkness, by the harpy’s hypnotizing song, and swiftly disembowelled. Aura, thinking on her feet, places a hard hat with ear protection on Matt to shield him from the harpy’s song. Aura and Matt separate, fleeing into the mill.
While separated, Aura discovers a message on the wall, alluding that someone or something can help her. The harpy attacks her, slicing her arm. Aura loses consciousness and later awakens in the harpy’s lair, feeling altogether changed. Matt appears and offers to lead Aura to safety, flirting with her all the while. Aura, fed up with the constant flirting from Matt, pushes back against him. Matt goes off on a tirade, implying that Aura “owes him” something for his efforts. He does not realize the harpy is sneaking up behind him. Aura removes Matt’s ear protection, allowing the harpy to enthral him with her song. Aura and the harpy promptly kill Matt for his offences and feast upon him.
by Rogan Lovse (Canada)
Cal Film Festival 