The Indian Runner
- Original title
- The Indian Runner
- Year
- 1991
- Running time
- 125 min.
- Country
- United States
- Director
- Screenwriter
- Cast
-
- Viggo Mortensen
- David Morse
- Dennis Hopper
- Valeria Golino
- Patricia Arquette
- Charles Bronson
- Benicio del Toro
- See all credits
- Music
- Cinematography
- Producer
- Co-production United States-Japan;
- Genre
- Drama | Small Town Life (North-american). Family Relationships
- Synopsis
- Sean Penn makes an arresting directorial debut with this intense character drama inspired in equal parts by the stark, folksy, early-'80s recordings of singer/songwriter Bruce Springsteen (the film is loosely based on his song "Highway Patrolman") and the improvisational films of actor/director John Cassavetes. Like the latter's work, Penn's first behind-the-camera foray is somewhat light on story mechanics; those accustomed to plot-heavy, preprogrammed Hollywood entertainment will likely be bored. Those seeking a richer, more reality-based and character-driven intellectualism will be delighted by the film's brooding, introspective qualities, its dedication to emotional truth, and its skillful, subtle deployment of violence that bubbles just under the surface of every scene. Leads Viggo Mortensen and David Morse are superb, which is no surprise given the extent to which The Indian Runner is an actors' picture. If the proceedings are a little flat and lacking in visual punch, Penn proves himself supremely gifted at working with fellow thespians; his subsequent directorial efforts would star such luminaries as Jack Nicholson and Helen Mirren. (Karl Williams: All Movie Guide)
- Critics' reviews
-
-
"The story, the acting and the tension level are of the highest order."
-
"The only factor that keeps the outcome from being a grand success is the film's script. It's hampered by its focus on a pivotal character with so few redeeming graces that the movie never grabs interest"
- Movie Soulmates' ratings
-
Register so you can access movie recommendations tailored to your movie taste.
- Friends' ratings
-
Register so you can check out ratings by your friends, family members, and like-minded members of the FA community.
Is the synopsis/plot summary missing? Do you want to report a spoiler, error or omission? Please send us a message.
If you are not a registered user please send us an email to [email protected]All copyrighted material (movie posters, DVD covers, stills, trailers) and trademarks belong to their respective producers and/or distributors.
For US ratings information please visit: www.mpaa.org www.filmratings.com www.parentalguide.org