User reviews

It is never pleasant to watch someone dig himself deeper and deeper into a hole, despite others' attempts to save him. Or because of others' attempts to make the hole deeper. Edward (Ron Eldard) is a compulsive gambler, born and raised in Las Vegas, who finds a solution to his money woes: run numbers for Deep Throat, a big-time gambler and thug (John Goodman). For a while, it looks like he's doing well -- Edward falls in love with Karina (Courtney Cox Arquette), and makes a good sum of money for Deep Throat. He cannot resist the temptations of gambling, however, and slowly, yet inevitably, slips time and again. Goodman is fun to watch -- no Mr. Nice Guy here. Arquette also acts well, showing a depth not seen in Friends or the Scream movies. Still, the movie lacks something -- there are a few subplots going on in the background that are never explained, and the ending, after a good build-up, ends up being too simplistic for my liking.

Unsettling story of a loser addicted to gambling who is hired as a runner by a sadistic man well aware that his new hire will never be able to follow a single rule: no gambling.

Ron Eldard does a wonderful job as Edward Carrington, making his character believable, sympathetic and infuriating all in a single breath. You root for the guy when he pulls himself out of a hole he's dug for himself and then feel like taking him aside and beating the crap out of him when he digs himself right back in. Never have I felt so helpless and uncomfortable watching a character's life fall to pieces on screen.

John Goodman and Courtney Cox are also very good. John Goodman's sweet guy disposition is nowhere to be found here, tucked away to allow an intimidating brute of a man to surface. Courtney Cox shines and shows the kind of range that has only been hinted at on "Friends".

Definitely worth seeing and not easily forgotten.

Vegas and gambling have never looked less glamorous.

As well as games is what wealthy, high roller "Deep Throat", Goodman, does. He chooses Joey Harrington, a down on his luck compulsive gambler for his latest foil. Harrington, well played by Ron Eldard, is a given a large salary to act as Goodman's "runner" with only three provisos. He is not allowed to personally gamble, he is never to touch Goodman's money and he is never allowed to tell anyone who or what Goodman is betting on.

Along the way Harrington falls for casino waitress Katrina, nicely played by Cox/Arquette and sees the chance for a big score if he breaks one of his employment conditions.

Well obviously he falls victim to the black jack table and breaks his deal with "Deep Throat" who has some unusual means of dealing with those who break their personal agreements with him.

This is just another simple morality play but it is well paced and nice acted but Goodman is miscast and the ending is rather "hokey".

Don't go out of your way for this one, but don't turn it off if you know what I mean.

Maybe the acting is a little rude, maybe the directing is a little anonymous, maybe there's a little too much "Leaving Las Vegas" influence on the story (which maybe is not the worst thing you can say about the script). But, if only all the (many) films about gambling had been so honest about the abysses of horrors where gamblers live every second of their lives, then maybe people would have a more realistic, less charming idea of them.

The story is so honest about the losing that I really think the writer talks about personal experience. I do.

Sorry people but...

Having gone to school in Vegas and being an actual runner this movie was a huge disappointment. When I found out that they had actually made the movie I thought this would be a pretty cool movie to view. How wrong could I have been? There was nothing in this movie that was even remotely accurate. If they had done ANY research in this movie they could have put together and interesting film however they chose to make one of the dumbest movies ever made in the history of film. I can normally live with a little artistic license but at least be a LITTLE accurate.

STUPID and LAME. Don't bother watching this film.

This is a movie about making bad decisions. Ed continually gets himself in trouble because he can never make a right decision. Every time he puts himself in a position of getting out of a jam, he puts himself in a deeper jam by making another poor decision. I got so frustrated by Ed's actions that I found myself jumping up and down in front of my TV screaming at it. If anyone wants to learn a lesson or two about the consequences of your actions, this is the movie for you.

what is this movie about anyway? thousands of hollywood movies were made about gamblers, western gamblers, futuristic gamblers, betting money, horse racing, foot-ball games,...

and what is the new thing about this one? nothing.

this is a nothing-movie, about nothing.

I rented this movie the day it was available for rental, being the avid Courteney Cox Arquette fan that I am. This movie's first impression screams to the watcher to stop your VCR and ask for your money back. Fortunately it picks up about ten minutes into the beginning. The introductory credits made me wonder what exactly I had gotten myself into.

The first real dialogue of the movie is mainly swearing, but this only gets worse.

Fortunately, as soon as Karina(Courteney) enters the scene it definitely picks up.It's kind of like "enter perfect love obsession of geeky main character".

After the initial introduction and conflict this movie gets much better. Everytime the character flubs up, I grimaced, waiting for the impending fate given by "Deepthroat" aka John Goodman. I was held to the ending, praying when the screen got dark each time that it was not the end of poor Edward. Luckily, each time I was once again greeted by the entrance of yet one more scene.

I recommend this movie to anyone who has a long attention span. The first time I almost cried at the ending. Then I was compelled to watch it yet another time. The second viewing was much more entertaining. Maybe it was knowing the resolution or just being able to fast forward through the slow parts--I don't know. My advice: watch it twice.

The camera angles of this movie were well chosen and styled. The flashes of scenes and the loud rock music accompanying it emphasized the action of Vegas, and also the danger of the character's position in his "game."

The acting was yet another good thing. Courteney made the 'labor scene' extremely effective. She def did her homework. John Goodman also plays an excellent bad guy. Down to the way he lays on the couch to lighting up his ciggy at the end. While this movie is slow in some places and slightly low-budget, it deserved a little chance in the theatres.

John Goodman is a supporting actor in this movie the same way that Atlas supported the Earth in Greek mythology. First, let us dispel any notion of realism. Goodman plays a sport gambler who beats the house so often that he has his own cadre of runners and soldiers. (In real life such men ARE the casino sport books). Instead of examining this fascinating character, we are thrust into the lives of the pretty boy/girl leads Arquette and Ellard. The end result was an obvious "producer's instrument" designed to advance young cinematic careers as much as make a buck. The Runner (Ellard) should have been The 'Sportwonk' (Goodman). Missed exciting themes were How does he beat the books? How does he get his info? Is he mobbed up? What is the life of a winning sports gambler like? Still, the finale is very exciting and worth the price of rental. If you like OC, buy it.

Yes, there have been quite a number of films ranging from drama's to comedies on the subject of gambling. But, The Runner is a cut above the rest. Beautifully photographed and stylishly produced the films direction is fast paced from start to finish. John Goodman talents come through full force as Deep Throat, an unseen played who, with the help of many his runners, has a foot hold or should I say a throat hold on the entire gambling scene. The entire cast does an excellent job with their various characters. However, Courteney Cox shines through as the films brightest star. From one of the films eariler comedic moments " The runner has a serious problem of a gastric nature" on his first date with Cox to her near death- birth of their child. Courteney Cox's work in this film was indeed a treat for anyone who wishes to see a talented actress on screen.

This film is amazing...

I ordered it off of the internet being a HUUUGE Courteney Cox Arquette fan and when I watched it, the film and especially Courteney completely blew me away...

The main character is Edward played by Ron Eldard (Deep Impact) who has a SERIOUS gambling problem. He is recommended to the malicious Deepthroat (John Goodman) for a Runner job by his uncle Rocco (Joe Magneta) who is trying to get himself out of a serious situation. There is one condition, Edward cannot, under any circumstances gamble. Will he do it?...

Edward meets a beautiful, young casino waitress called Karina (Cox Arquette). She's the kinda girl "you'd kill your brother for" (hehe, my favourite line :D) He inevitably ends up falling in love with her and she falls pregnant.

There is so much suspense in this film I was actually physically shaking by the end, and my nails certainly didn't survive it!!

As for the performances: Ron Eldard is pretty good, although he does get slightly annoying and you feel like screaming at the screen at him... John Goodman is genuinly terrifying and disturbing as Deepthroat, a man that seems to have no soul whatsoever. The stand out in this film is definatly Courteney Cox Arquette though. She's simply... breathtaking in the role, and the labour scene at the end, in my opinion, is oscar winning stuff (no joke whatsoever)

It's a shame that this film didn't do better because I'd love to see Courteney getting the recognition for dramatic acting that she deserves.

Overall, on the strength of the amazing storyline and Courteney (especially Courteney :D) I give this film a definate 10 out of 10!!

My friends and I being huge Courteney Cox Arquette fans bought (it was actually cheeper to buy than to rent) this movie just because it had her in it and cause David Arquette had a cameo. But after watching it I was glad I had bought The Runner so I could watch it over and over again. This movie is very suspenseful, dramatic, and even has some laughs mixed in. While the movie was playing we found ourselves yelling at the screen and even crying near the end when there is fear of a death(for you who have seen the movie know which scene I'm talking about). Also when the movie is over it seems to haunt you and makes you think. Not very many movies have had that effect on me. The actors in the movie made it what it is. Really great performances by all. Ron Eldard(who I remember from ER)did a great job of portraying a hopeless gambler who just wants to fix his life. John Goodman who is normally a hilarious guy(such as in Roseanne) took a turn to the dark side in this movie and creeped me out! If I saw him today on the street I would probably say "You scare me". But that just means he is an actor who can play any character very well. Lastly, Courteney Cox Arquette I think steals the whole movie. This isn't just because she is my favorite actress. More than likely anyone who will see this will think "wow she's good in this". That's because most people only know her from Friends and don't know that sitcom actors can act dramatic,and well at that. So to sum it up, if you havent seen this movie you should.

I certainly did not expect much from this film, so i was quite blown away at how good it actually was. given that i saw it just one week after returning from Vegas made it that much more enthralling. You can say that The Runner is a movie about the gambling lifestyle, the same way Field of Dreams is a movie about baseball, that is that the gambling aspect is just a vehicle to a very interesting character study. And the characters in this film are VERY interesting indeed. you will find yourself caring about the fate of these characters more than almost any movie you have ever seen, and for my money that is a key criteria in a rewarding movie watching experience. With all the dogs out there you could see, this one is definitely worth a look. 8.5/10

Like many others, I came across The Runner by accident. In my case, I just happened to turn to the Mystery Channel on cable here in Tokyo as it started. I was intrigued enough by the title to see who was in it. Then the opening shot that draws the viewer into Las Vegas drew me into the movie. I had no idea what a "runner" is, but I soon learned a few things about Las Vegas I had never imagined. And then I got caught up in the story of the loser that keeps getting another chance. Of the many fine points about this movie, the one that stands out for me is the script. In particular, John Goodman's "insights" into the dilemma faced by fathers as their little girls grow up will probably stick with me the longest.

Wonderful!! So realist!! A movie like that should be view by everybody! It's the story of a guy, Edward Harington, who have problems with the games. He can't stop himself , he's always gambling. Then, his uncle Rocco propose him a job: he'll have to work for Deep Throat. While talking with his uncle, he met a pretty woman, Karina. Then, life goes on, Karina and Edward get married, Karina is pregnant,...

But to buy her a ring, Edward use the money of Deep Throat but at the end of the day, he must have the same amount of money that means he owe $8 000. After, all his

"dream life" goes down. Do he'll be able to stay in life?

This tongue in cheek, taboo-breaking fest of ridiculousness is a must see for anyone addicted to binge gambling. Any film with a "oops, I pooped my pants on a first date" scene has a place on my Comedy shelf. John Goodman's rambling diatribes and gray pajamas are brilliant, and Courtney Cox... well, she stays with Mr. Elderd's character after he poops his pants... so. While the climax of the film may not be ridiculous enough to be the kind of climax you're hoping for from a film that will leave you with stomach cramps and tears of laughter, oh well.

How often do you cry from laughter while watching a movie? Especially if you're not ten years old. If you ARE ten years old, you may even DIE from laughter.

Trust me, this is one of the funniest movies of all time.

This is a great movie, John Goodman is great, if you like John Goodman this is a movie not to miss. I give this movie 10 stars on the fact is was a hard movie to play, I feel the actors in the movie gave it there best, and you feel like you are in the movie. I can't tell you too much it will take away from the movie.

Altough "The Runner" has its downsides, it is a great movie. Both Ron Eldard and Courteney Cox perform admirably, as they make the movie even more entertaining. For those that haven't seen it, I advise you to give it a try... you might be surprised.

I never intended to be swept up in The Runner, but for some reason I was. The dictionary defines gambling as games of chance for money at high risk, risking much for great gain, a risky undertaking. This movie really does make the gambling definition true. In fact it turns me off the thought of putting on a quick pick at the local lotto agent.

Of all the big time gambler's who've ever played Las Vegas, no one has ever laid eyes on anyone like Deepthroat, and no one ever will. For he works secretly, powerfully and he's just found the perfect man to 'run' his action: a young compulsive gambler named Edward. It's an offer Edward can't refuse. It's temptation he can't resist. And it's a gamble he's about to risk everything for, including the woman he loves. The Runner is taut thriller about breaking the rules, beating the odds and realising the only game being played is you.

This film clearly proves that people are pawns, especially in the gambling industry. The temptation to have just one more bet is just too great, and in Runner following the main character Edward, we see how bad you can get. To define the title of the film, a Runner is someone who gambles with someone else's money to help them win big. The runner goes on a certain 'run' and places bids at each booking place. They are instructed on what to bid on by the big boss. A very cut-throat environment to work, and from this movie, one decision, right or wrong, can have a life or death tag with it.

This movie contains some great scenes where Ed is trying to win, firstly for his boss, then in the end for himself. He does leave himself open to be caught doing the wrong. While on the job he does make some game choices when to bet and not to bet. I love the scene in the car as he is driving along, the pressure of his job just too great for him to handle. Also the end of the film is great to see exactly what someone will do to try and gain everything back, but taking the chance that they can lose everything as well.

The cast of this film is quite a good one. Playing Edward is young star Ron Eldard, who takes us on a scary ride of the effect gambling can have on a person. Eldard has appeared on another film which I enjoyed, Deep Impact. Probably the most well-known star in Runner is Courtney Cox. She stars as Karina, the woman who cares a lot for Ed, but stands to lose as much as anyone. Cox has had a good career in the last five years. Starring on Friends, one of the most successful TV shows in history has been great for her, plus appearing in the Scream trilogy has made her quite a good name. I liked her role in this movie very much. It is no coincidence that David Arquette has a cameo role in this movie. I feel for Cox and Arquette who have recently split after a very short marriage. I also respected the role of Deepthroat played by John Goodman. Goodman is a genius and can turn his hand to any role that is asked of him. He plays this harsh gambling boss role to perfection. If you haven't seen his role in Coyote Ugly yet, do yourself a favour and see it asap!

In this country (Australia), gambling is big business. We can take a bet on any sport we want, including Horse racing, Greyhounds and Football (of any code) just to name a few. Yet the greatest scandal to rock our shores is that of beating on the game of cricket. Some of the players in the Australian cricket team have been interrogated for taking bribes and fixing matches, and it has taken the spotlight off one of our country's favourite sports. I believe that gambling takes the shine off our favourite sports and sporting heroes.

Another point this movie is saying, is that family is more important than any gambling, money or possessions. Gambling will make your life at one stage seem to good to be true and then rip the seat out from under you. In Australia, we have had an upsurge in poker machines and Casinos, good for our economy, but terrible for the general public. Many Australians are getting help for 'Gambling addictions', which is a great shame in my view. This movie is a true representation that gambling is bad for our community. I know first hand that it can sweep you in. My grandfather is a small time gambler and has never really won it big, but lost his fair share of money trying to get that one 'lucky break'. I feel it is more important to work for your money and save it, to further yourself and your family if you have one. This film is good to show anyone who has a gambling problem or is thinking about taking up the gambling habit, cause it might just stop you from doing so.

Rating: 4 stars or 9/10

It's been 20 years since I saw this movie on cable, but somehow it's never far from my mind. The movie is about a degenerate low-level gambler, played ably by Ron Eldard (whatever happened to him?...) who gets into trouble with a major Vegas bookie named Deepthroat, played with brutal sincerity by John Goodman. Eldard is deep in debt to various gambling "houses" and gets a lucky break to work off his debt by being a "runner" for Deepthroat. Eldard's job is to take large amounts of Deepthroat's money and place bets at casinos around Vegas, never knowing until it's too late that Deepthroat is actually a Vegas mob-connected oddsmaker with a sadistic way of getting even to anyone who crosses him.

Eldard meets a cocktail waitress played by the lovely and talented Courtney Cox. They move in together, she gets pregnant and as Eldard gets deeper into trouble and finally crosses the line by taking money from Deepthroat to stoke his own gambling habit, Deepthroat finds out and takes his revenge by placing a blindfolded Eldard at home plate of a local baseball park, running a high-powered sprinkler only a couple feet from Eldard's head... Let's just say that Deepthroat makes a deal with Eldard involving Cox's baby that makes even the most hard-hearted of viewers squirm in their seats.

The Runner is an outstanding movie. it is about a guy with a gambling problem. And the gambler (Ron Eldard) down on his luck with one chance, but his new boss has his own ideas. Also (Courteney Cox) is outstanding. And I give this film a 10 out of 10 Stars.

The Runner was really good, I didn't get bored with it or anything. During the movie I found myself in suspense, in fear, in happiness, yelling at the screen, in doubt, and yes, I once even cried. Good overall acting except for the main character, he sucked (no offense). I recommend you see it.