film

The action-comedy and thriller Runner is now playing in theatres bringing director Scott Waugh vision to the big screen through an action-packed, suspenseful, and unexpectedly humorous high-stakes story.

The film explores Hank Malone, a former soldier who is played by Alan Ritchson, who becomes the target of a vicious and dangerous cartel.  All due to a crucial medical delivery, setting him up for a bloody race against time. Hank needs to make it back in time and get a hold of the package to deliver it before an innocent child runs out of time and is left with a life or death situation.

Photo Courtesy: Angel Studios

The cast features Owen Wilson, Alan Ritchson, Rodrigo Santoro, Leila George, Kate Box, Peta Sergeant, Geraldine Hakewill, Cecilia Toussaint and Scarlett Crabtree.

The Knockturnal sat down with Scott Waugh and Rodrigo Santoro where both discussed the characters in the film and the intense action scenes. The film not only is filled with fighting scenes back to back but there is an unexpected level of emotion that is embedded within the film.

Between Hank Malone and Ben Bishop’s relationship developing over time the two men go from strangers to partners in crime. 

Photo Courtesy: Angel Studios

When discussing the film and directing process of how Waugh took on the project he mentioned what drew his attention.

“When I read the screen play, I was most excited about the emotional hook of these men trying to save a 7-year-old girl from dying. “I’m a father, so I relate to the idea of nothing would stop me from saving my children,” Waugh said. 

For Waugh, he says there is justification for the action. Throughout the film, the emotions gradually come across the screenplay. 

Rodrigo Santoro who plays Damián Zaldívar, is a dangerous cartel boss who is also pursuing the transplanted medical delivery with a donor liver inside in the film. Damián is a threat and gets in between Hank and Ben and the little girl whose life is on the line. Damián happens to also need the liver to save his mother. 

Photo Courtesy: Angel Studios

Santoro discussed his approach to Damián’s character, who is  most likely going to generate a mixed response from people who understand his motivation for interfering with the mission.

“The whole process was trying to make Damián a three-dimensional character and not fall into the conventional more sort of caricature of an action villain,” Santoro said.

 Santoro mentioned Damián is not a good person, the audience shouldn’t like him but it is evident he is coming from a very strong place. 

With its blend of high-stakes action, comedy and suspense, Runner delivers a fast-paced ride that will leave you at the edge of your seat throughout the whole film. 

Runner is now playing in theaters.