Watch The Runner

The Runner is a 1999 American political thriller film that tells the story of a Louisiana politician named Willie Stark, who runs for governor to bring change to his state. The movie is directed by Ron Eldard and stars Ron Eldard, John Goodman, and Joe Mantegna in the lead roles. The film takes place in Louisiana during the 1990s and follows Willie Stark, a character based on real-life politician Huey Long. Stark is a charismatic country lawyer who becomes involved in politics after witnessing the inequalities and corruption that plague the state.

Stark is initially unsuccessful in his political endeavors, but gains popularity when he starts speaking out against the wealthy and powerful in the state. He begins to run for governor, and with the help of his campaign manager, Jack Burden, sets out to win the election by any means necessary.

As the campaign heats up, Burden realizes that Stark might not be the man he thought he was. Stark's hunger for power and willingness to compromise his values become more apparent as the election progresses. Unable to ignore the moral compromises he has made, Burden begins to question his loyalty to Stark.

Meanwhile, Stark's opponents try to derail his campaign by digging up dirt on him from his past. They also try to use his relationships with a woman named Anne and his son Tom against him. As the election draws closer, Stark becomes increasingly desperate and unpredictable, and Burden is forced to make a decision that will change his life forever.

The Runner is a captivating and thought-provoking film that explores the nature of power and corruption in politics. The performances by Eldard, Goodman, and Mantegna are exceptional, and the film's elegant cinematography captures the beauty and complexity of Louisiana.

The film's themes are incredibly relevant today, as we continue to see political leaders prioritize their own interests over those of the people they are supposed to serve. The Runner is a cautionary tale that reminds us of the importance of staying true to our values and fighting for what is right, even in the face of adversity.

Overall, The Runner is a well-crafted and engaging political thriller that will leave audiences thinking long after the credits roll. Whether you're a fan of the genre or simply looking for a compelling story with strong performances, this film is definitely worth a watch.

The Runner is a 2015 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.