Watch Runner, Runner
- R
- 2013
- 1 hr 31 min
-
5.6 (65,980)
Runner Runner is an American crime thriller movie directed by Brad Furman and released in 2013. It features an ensemble cast starring Ben Affleck, Justin Timberlake, and Gemma Arterton. The film takes the audience on a ride through the world of online gambling, corrupt businessmen, and backstabbing friends. The storyline revolves around a Princeton student, Richie Furst (Justin Timberlake), who uses his skills to pay for his tuition through online gambling. After losing all his savings, he travels to Costa Rica to confront the founder of the online gambling company, Ivan Block (Ben Affleck), believing that the game was rigged. Richie spends most of his time convincing Ivan that he is a good all-around hustler, and the duo eventually become close friends. Ivan coaches Richie on how to analyze the psychology of other players, and Richie becomes a key employee in the company.
However, the plot thickens when Richie discovers that Ivan's business operates on international fronts, including drug smuggling routes, money laundering, and bribery. He becomes an FBI informant, and his role is to collect enough incriminating evidence against Ivan to put him behind bars, and in return, he will receive immunity for being an accessory to Ivan's criminal activities. But things take a turn for the worse when Richie finds himself in the middle of the dangerous web of corruption, greed, and power that Ivan controls.
As the plot builds, the suspense of who to trust and who to betray heightens, and the audience is kept guessing the outcome. The acting by Affleck is top-notch, and his ability to portray a character with two faces and manipulate those around him with his charisma is on full display. Timberlake's portrayal of a struggling student is relatable, and his character's rise from online gambler to top-level businessman is a thrilling ride. Arterton's character, as Block's lover and business partner, adds to the tension, and the underlying love triangle between the protagonists brings an extra dimension to the story.
The film's setting - the lush, sun-soaked scenery of Costa Rica, coupled with a vibrant and colorful nightlife - contrasts starkly with the dark and dangerous underworld of online gambling. The tantalizing musical score by Christophe Beck heightens the intensity of the scenes.
Runner Runner's script by screenwriters Brian Koppelman and David Levien is well written, and their pace keeps the audience engaged throughout the film. With a runtime of 91 minutes, this film doesn't waste time on unnecessary subplots and discussions, making every scene count towards building up the suspense.
In conclusion, Runner Runner is an enjoyable gambling movie with twists and turns that keep you guessing until the end. The movie is a character-driven tale that keeps the audience engaged and at the edge of their seats all through. Furman's direction blends perfectly with the script, and the cast delivers impressive performances that make the movie a good watch. Though it could have been a bit more complex, the movie sticks to its storyline, and the ending doesn't leave you feeling cheated. Overall, the movie is worth your time, especially if you enjoy a good thriller.
Runner, Runner is a 2013 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6 and a MetaScore of 36.