How do we grieve in a world stripped of authentic human connection?
Heartworm is a deep exploration of what mankind stands to lose if the virtual realm takes us captive.
Set in a post-pandemic world dependent on NeuraLife technology, a virtual platform where all human interaction takes place, a bereaved mother battles to bring her grief-stricken husband back to reality and free herself from the confines of NeuraLife's digital world.
In today's society, everyone has a digital persona. For some, this is a useful tool, but for many, it's an augmented version of their core identity. Since the genesis of Facebook, depression is on the rise, feelings of isolation affect 47% of Americans, and the average person spends four hours a day on their mobile device, checking it upwards of 84 times. These numbers are only exacerbated by the current pandemic.
As it stands, Heartworm has never been more relevant. In this time of a global pandemic, when social distancing and Zoom hangouts are becoming the norm, humanity is sitting on a precipice. Will we rediscover the strength and importance of human connection or will the safety and convenience of a virtual lifestyle win out?
Heartworm is fiscally sponsored through the Martha's Vineyard Film Festival, which means all donations are 100% tax-deductible. (Please note: "Heartworm" must be written in the Notes section.)
DONATE HEREThere are lots of other ways to help too! We are looking for filming locations, cast and crew housing, catering, equipment and crew. If you would like to contribute in one of these ways or in a way we haven't specified, but you know we might need, please contact miriamlarens@gmail.com.
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Miriam Louise Arens (writer/director/producer) email: miriamlarens@gmail.com Phone: (917) 635-6685 Directing sample: https://vimeo.com/410462417