Review of Running Time (1997) by Bobby L — 09 Jul 2010
Bruce Campbell stars as just released from prison Carl, who has been masterminding a plan the whole time in. Writer-director Josh Becker shoots in B&W, and it's all one take. No, I don't mean that there's a few very long shots here, I mean the entire damn thing, much like it's inspiration, Rope, is a (seemingly) long, continuous shot. Sometimes, the trickery is a bit more obvious, like when we pan across the van and across over an all black bit- I'm positive they stopped there, reloaded their film, and continued. Other times, it's much harder to figure out.
Of course, this style would all be for naught, if the didn't bring a sense of urgency and immediacy to the proceedings, but thankfully, it does. The script, while not mind-blowingly original, is good enough, and keeps everything in check. The heist plan goes awry, as things are wont to do, but it is still successful.; that's not a spoiler, as most of the film takes place after the robbery. It's a lot of fun to watch these characters under pressure, and the tipping point at which they go bonkers.
Campbell is excellent here, playing a slightly different version of his usual, smug, know it all persona; it's different enough to be noticeable, but not so different that it's much of a stretch. I for one, can watch Campbell do anything, so this didn't bother me in the least.
As his partners in crime, Jeremy Roberts, as Patrick, a kind of dumb, quick tempered lug, is the best. Roberts exudes a sort of slimy, selfish attitude that fits well within the story. William Davis, as middleman Buzz, is only OK, but not bad enough to ruin the film, neither good enough to be of any real note. Gordon Jennison as druggie/ getaway driver Donny is very good. He really acts and sells it, and a scene where Campbell catches back up with him is excellent.
As requisite love interest Janie, Anita Barone has suitable chemistry with Campbell, and sells the heartbroken fact, but when she's trying to be tough, it's not as easy to swallow. Still, she's ok.
The pacing, which is given a nice boost from the fun score, is good, and will have you on the edge of your seat.
This review of Running Time (1997) was written by Bobby L on 09 Jul 2010.
Running Time has generally received positive reviews.
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