Watch The Runner

The Runner is a 2015 American drama film directed by Austin Stark, who also wrote the screenplay. The film takes place in the aftermath of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in New Orleans, where the political landscape has shifted as the government scrambles to address the environmental disaster that has devastated the Gulf Coast. Nicolas Cage stars as Colin Price, a congressman from Louisiana whose political career has been built on his support for the oil and gas industry. However, in the wake of the disaster, Price faces mounting pressure from both environmentalists pushing for greater regulation and constituents who have lost everything due to the spill.

As Price navigates the complex political terrain, he is rocked by personal turmoil as well. His marriage is falling apart, and his affair with a married woman (played by Connie Nielsen) threatens to derail his career and ruin his reputation.

As the situation in New Orleans grows more volatile, Price finds himself forced to choose between his loyalty to the oil and gas companies that have supported him throughout his career and his duty to the people of Louisiana who are suffering in the wake of the spill.

Cage delivers a strong performance as the conflicted politician struggling to balance his personal and professional obligations, and the supporting cast (including Peter Fonda, Wendell Pierce, and Sarah Paulson) is equally compelling.

The film is beautifully shot, capturing both the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast and the devastation wrought by the spill. Stark's direction is confident and assured, and he effectively blends personal drama with political intrigue.

Overall, The Runner is a thoughtful and engaging drama that raises important questions about the relationship between politics and the environment. It is a powerful exploration of the responsibilities of elected officials, and the high stakes involved in a disaster of this magnitude.

The Runner is a 2022 documentary.