Running Scared

Running Scared

Year: 1986

Runtime: 107 min

Language: English

Director: Peter Hyams

ActionThrillerComedyCrime

In this high-stakes thriller, small-time mobster Joey Gazelle's life spirals out of control when a cache of illegal guns falls into the wrong hands - specifically those of Oleg, a troubled young boy who uses one to take down a ruthless Russian mobster. As Joey frantically tries to retrieve the incriminating weapon, he finds himself in a deadly game of cat and mouse with corrupt detectives and rival gangsters.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Running Scared (1986)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Running Scared (1986). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

While the exact time period is not specified, the film appears to be set in the late 20th century, likely during the 1980s or early 1990s. This era was marked by significant crime dramas in urban areas, with police procedural series highlighted in popular media.

Location

Chicago, Illinois, Key West, Florida

The movie primarily takes place in Chicago, a bustling urban center known for its vibrant culture, deep-dish pizza, and iconic skyline. Key West, a beautiful island city in Florida, serves as a brief escape for the characters, known for its stunning sunsets, leisurely fishing, and laid-back atmosphere.

🏙️ City 🏖️ Beach

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:07

Main Characters – Running Scared (1986)
Meet the key characters of Running Scared (1986), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Danny Costanzo (Billy Crystal)

Danny is a witty and resourceful undercover detective, often employing humor to handle tense situations. He struggles with his personal life amid professional chaos, showcasing vulnerability behind his tough exterior.

🚓 Detective 😂 Humor

Ray Hughes (Gregory Hines)

Ray is a skilled and dedicated partner, balancing his commitment to the job with a desire for a normal life. He often serves as the voice of reason, navigating the complexities of their undercover work with integrity.

🚔 Partner 🤝 Loyalty

Julio Gonzales (Jimmy Smits)

Julio is a cunning and dangerous criminal who poses a significant threat to the detectives. His charisma and violent streak make him a formidable adversary, driven by a desire to protect his interests at any cost.

🔫 Criminal 😠 Dangerous

Snake (Joe Pantoliano)

Snake is a slippery character caught in a web of crime and deceit. His initial reluctance to cooperate illustrates his self-preservation instinct, but he ultimately becomes a crucial player in the detectives' pursuit.

🦎 Deceptive 😟 Reluctant

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:07

Major Themes – Running Scared (1986)
Explore the central themes of Running Scared (1986), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

👮‍♂️ Law Enforcement

The film deeply explores the lives of undercover police officers, showcasing their struggles, moral dilemmas, and the challenges of maintaining their cover. The camaraderie between the partners underlines themes of loyalty and sacrifice prevalent in law enforcement.

💔 Relationships

Relationships play a crucial role in the characters' development, from Danny's strained connection with his ex-wife to the bond between the partners. The complexities of love, trust, and betrayal are highlighted, adding depth to the characters’ motivations.

💰 Greed

The allure of money, particularly through crime, drives much of the plot. The film illustrates how greed influences decisions, pushing characters to make risky choices that affect their lives and the lives of those around them.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:07

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