Armstrong Grad’s ‘The Seventh Turn’ To Play at Twin Cities Film Fest
Robbinsdale Armstrong alum Eric Howell is being celebrated with a showing of his work at the 2025 Twin Cities Film Fest.
“The Seventh Turn,” a short film produced and directed by Howell, explores the dangers of gaslighting and manipulation in romantic relationships.
Howell said it’s based on the Spanish urban legend “la chica de la curva,” translated to “the girl on the curve.” Howell shot the film in Spain, but it still has Minnesota ties.
“There’s nothing like coming home and being able to share with a community that’s been so supportive of everything I’ve ever done,” Howell said. “You know, it’s a short film, but it’s a beautiful film.”
Howell is a 1989 graduate of Armstrong High School.
Eric Howell, the writer and director of “The Seventh Turn,” speaks outside his alma mater. Robbinsdale Armstrong High School.
At Armstrong, Howell developed an interest in the performing arts by observing his school’s busy theater department. Shortly after graduating, he worked with Prince. While his career has taken him across the country, his home is Minnesota.
The film is 20 minutes long and features two actors driving and having a conversation about the future. The male character talks dismissively to the female character, as she becomes increasingly frightened by his manipulative language.
It’s scored by composer Michael Wandmacher and includes music performed by Amy Lee of the band Evanescence. The film is supported by the families of Matt Damon and Chris Hemsworth, as well as the St. Paul nonprofit FilmNorth, to name a few.
Howell said he hopes this film creates a conversation and raises awareness of emotional abuse.
The film will play at Marcus West End Cinema at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25, as a part of the festival. It’s also available via streaming. More details and a link to buy tickets are available on the Twin Cities Film Fest’s website.
The festival began Oct. 16 and runs through Oct. 25.
Armstrong High School
