Movie Reviews
Running Scared 
Rated R, 1:45 (2006)
Starring: Paul Walker, Cameron Bright, Vera Farmiga, Karel Roden, Johnny Messner, Chazz Palmiteri
Direction: Wayne Kramer
Production: Sammy Lee, Michael Pierce, Brett Ratner
Screenplay: Wayne Kramer
by Vincent St. James
The Lowdown:
Violence, violence, and more violence.
Once upon a time in the mob...
Sometimes, it's better not to question what goes on in a movie. Say, for instance, why Paul Walker's character in Running Scared stashes a gun in his basement knowing full well that his kid has access to the area, thus potentially putting himself and others in a very comprimising situation.
Instead, when watching this film, I wanted to enjoy it. And I did. Truth is, this is one wild ride, and it will not lose your attention, that's for sure. For the action buffs, there is plenty here. Having a kid at the forefront of the story helps make one care about what's going on. It's amazing to see the children in this movie and the terrible situations that they are put in. Most of the action sequences are shot well, and there is some originality, though not much-- enough to keep us interested.
This one tries to push the envelope as far as possible in the violence department, and it creates a dark atmosphere for the movie. The cinematography is good at times, and some of the views work well, such as the bullet flying through the window when one child shoots his father. For the most part, however, the lighting seems off, and I argue that they didn't have to use the visual photography to create a darker mood than there already was.
Speaking of dark, everything that is wrong with the world seems to find it's place somewhere in this movie, from prostitution, the mob, racism, corrupt police, even kiddie porn. I can see why so many critics have blasted this film... it seems more intent on showcasing every single darkside of society instead of focusing on the story and characters. Sure, that may be the case, and there is a lot of bad things going on, but I say Kramer is able to do it in an entertaining way. There is some style here, and it makes up for some of the story and character faults.
Paul Walker as lead character Joey is underwhelming. He doesn't seem to fall into his character as easily as most of the other actors, particularly the mobsters and Karel Roden as the demented father. Joey goes to great lengths to protect himself and his family, and it's interesting to see what drives him. It's obvious his love for his family is great. The best dialogue might have been when his wife Teresa, played well by Vera Farmiga, tells him what she really sees in him, and this is a reflection of what is going on in Joey's life. He is struggling to protect what he truly loves, struggling to be what he truly is, a father and husband, while at the same time playing dangerous games with the mob. It sort of pits Joey against himself, and soon enough he's faced with the predicament of trying to outsmart and outgun the mob.
The movie is far from perfect. It may be trying too hard, but it has its moments and is worth a watch. The mood is dark, and needless to say it pulls no punches.
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