Watch The Runner

The Runner is a powerful, thought-provoking drama about politics, corruption, and morality in modern America. Set in Louisiana in the aftermath of a devastating environmental disaster, the film explores the conflict between the personal and the political, as well as the tension between individual responsibility and collective action.

The story follows Congressman David McCallister (played by Ron Eldard), a rising star in the Democratic Party who is on the verge of announcing his candidacy for governor. However, his political ambitions are jeopardized when a sex scandal threatens to ruin his career and his marriage. As he struggles to repair the damage and regain his credibility, McCallister becomes embroiled in a complex plot involving corporate interests, environmental activism, and the corrupt local power structure.

Along the way, he encounters a colorful cast of characters, including his loyal chief of staff (played by John Goodman), a tough-talking environmental activist (played by Peter Gerety), a slick and ruthless corporate executive (played by Michael Higgins), and an enigmatic political fixer with a dark secret (played by Joe Mantegna). These characters represent different facets of the American political spectrum, and their interactions add depth and complexity to the story.

At its core, The Runner is a film about the intersection of public and private lives, and the ways in which the political process can both empower and corrupt those who participate in it. As McCallister struggles to maintain his integrity and navigate the treacherous waters of Louisiana politics, he is forced to confront the difficult choices that all politicians must make, and to question his own values and motivations.

The film is directed by Austin Stark, who also wrote the screenplay. Stark is a veteran producer of such films as Infinitely Polar Bear and Happythankyoumoreplease, and he brings a deft touch to the material, balancing suspense, drama, and social commentary in a way that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The cinematography by Elliot Davis is also notable, capturing the lush and swampy atmosphere of Louisiana and creating a moody and atmospheric backdrop for the story.

The performances in The Runner are uniformly excellent, with Ron Eldard delivering a powerful and nuanced portrayal of McCallister, a flawed but sympathetic character who is driven by a sense of duty and a desire for redemption. John Goodman is also excellent as McCallister's chief of staff, lending humor and heart to the role and providing a grounded and relatable presence in the midst of the political intrigue. Joe Mantegna is suitably enigmatic as the shadowy political operative, while Michael Higgins is chillingly effective as the ruthless corporate executive.

In addition to its exploration of politics and morality, The Runner also touches on themes of environmentalism, social justice, and the impact of human activity on the natural world. The film raises important questions about our responsibility to the planet and to future generations, and it challenges us to consider the consequences of our actions and the values that we hold as a society.

Overall, The Runner is a compelling and thought-provoking film that will appeal to anyone who is interested in politics, ethics, and the complexities of the modern world. With its strong performances, sharp writing, and atmospheric visuals, it is a film that is sure to spark discussion and reflection, and to leave a lasting impression on its viewers.

The Runner is a 1999 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.