Runaways (2003) User Reviews

raw, gritty, and real...

[tigre_borracho · 7/10 · 9 February 2005]

This is a well fleshed out story, filled with colorful and interesting characters, that portrays the many faces of abuse and homelessness. Even with the heavy subject matter, it manages to leave you with a sense of hope and faith in humanity. Austin O'Brien's portrayal of Steve Moore is both heart-wrenching and uplifting. The kid just can't get a break, and writer/director Brent Bambic waits until the last possible moment to give him his redemption. The ensemble cast is strong throughout, including Arielle Paul, Demetrius Navarro, and Esteban Powell. While Runaways has a great message and cause, it does contain a lot of profanity -- which makes it a bit too edgy for younger audiences.

Critics Agree

[sergio-89 · 10/10 · 26 February 2005]

This movie was screened at the Cannes Film Festival and was met with praise from many media outlets (such as the BBC) and took home Best Feature at the Hollywood First Glance Film Festival. Who can argue with those credentials? On top of that, it does show the struggle and problems that still goes on in our own backyard. Thousands of children are left to fend for themselves in a harsh reality. Anyone that doesn't see the greatness in showing their story has their own problems. This film is a brilliant work of art and should be shown world wide. I've bought this movie and have enjoyed watching it over and over. I appreciate all the effort put in to bring this epidemic to the mainstream.

Though it is a very difficult task to capture all the issues around

[laurgiles · 9/10 · 26 January 2005]

Though it is a very difficult task to capture all the issues around runaways in the U.S., the film is able to clearly pinpoint important issues regarding runaway teens. It is done in a simplistic indie manner and, at the same time, it attempts to draw attention to this problem by providing a look at runaways in a realistic non-Hollywood style. I think that the quality of the story picks up overshadowing the unintended flaws due to the films' budgetary constraints. However, I applaud the theme and the importance of addressing the issue of runaway teens. Without a doubt, and excellent film to enjoy. A must see because of its quality and moral value. A+A+!!!!

Powerful and true

[ladyfilms · 9/10 · 1 November 2004]

I was invited to a private screening of "Runaways" and I have to tell you, I was moved. The movie puts you in the situation of being on the streets. The cast was wonderful. Austin O'Brien was very believable and Demetrius Navarro was powerful. When Demetrius is on the phone trying to make his mother see the truth about her abusive boyfriend, it made me cry. The character Esteban Powell portrayed was a good example of what can happen when people just don't care. This is the type of movie that everyone should see, because it shows us that the issue of runaways is one that can be prevented. My applause to the director for his vision and ability to tell this story. I love this movie, because it's real.

A Wonderful Film

[seanparker-1 · 10/10 · 28 September 2006]

I rented this film and enjoyed it a lot. It really shows the brutal reality for some of America's youth...I would recommend it to everyone. Especially for parents with children in high school. The ability of the cast to tap their characters is amazing to watch. The synergy between the filmmaker and actors really comes out on the screen. Its great to see a film with Austin O'Brian (Last Action Hero, Apollo 13), Esteban Powell (Dazed and Confused) and Demitrius Navarro (ER and Friday). I am fans of all these talented actors and its great to see them back to work in a film that really allows them to show depth and range with a character...Definitely one of the better independent films I've seen in awhile.

Austin O'Brien is back in the game !!!!!

[leighsummerfield · 10/10 · 13 April 2006]

OK so Runaways was an independent film and we are use to seeing Austin O'brien in big Hollywood movies, but here he is back in the game. He is convincing as a runaway is is escaping from his mothers abuse only to end up in a haze of drugs and bad people. Austin is the best to come out of this film and for an independent film is really good. It focuses a lot on the world of runaways and the drug world that these runaways are subjected to. But if you love Austin O'Brien you will know that Austin is back on the path to stardom and he is one to watch for in the future, rent it if you like a good drama you will be pleasantly surprised, my vote 10 out of 10.