10. Running Time
Carl (Bruce Campbell) has just been released from prison. He wastes little time planning his next heist. In fact, as soon as Carl leaves prison he is greeted by Patrick (Jeremy Roberts), a fellow criminal who Carl has recruited for the job, which is happening right now. Carl learns of the warden’s stash of money at a laundry mat. Joined by Buzz (William Stanford Davis) the safecracker and Donny (Gordon Jennison Noice) who is unreliable due to his drug problem. Throw in a high school sweetheart Janie (Anita Barone) and you are in for one intense hour.
Running Time is one hell of a film. As a Bruce Campbell fan I am disappointed I haven’t seen this film before. Director Josh Becker uses Alfred Hitchcock’s “single” take technique he used in Rope and creates an unrelenting, fast moving 69 minute film. Campbell is awesome is the film, and the camera work and choreography employed to pull off some of the shots is outstanding. More impressive is the film’s micro-budget of only $130,000. The film is elevated by the acting and a commitment by Becker to pull of the single take crime saga.
Grade:A
Running Time Video Quality
Running Time busts onto blu-ray with a new “2K scan and restoration of the original camera negative” giving the black and white film great texture and detail. The film was shot in 1.42:1 aspect ratio giving the film a tight and focused look.
Grade: A+
Running Time Audio Quality
Running Time breaks onto high definition with a terrific 2.0 DTS-HD Master Audio that gives the film a life like feel. Dialogue, ambient noise sound crystal clear. No hiccups or hissing to be found on the track.
Grade: A
Running Time Bonus Features
Running Time comes with a reversible cover!
Commentary by Director Josh Becker and Bruce Campbell is funny and technical, a great listen
Run and Gun: An interview with Bruce Campbell. A funny, engaging 20 minutes that just fly by. Campbell has a great memory and he not only touches on the film but also growing up with Becker. Campbell also talks about how he wanted a better role after being in McHale’s Navy.
Freaky Film Festival Q&A: Becker is joined by Campbell with which has a fun intro with them scrambling to get the film prepared to show.
Theatrical Trailer
Grade: A
A hidden gem in Bruce Campbell’s filmography, Running Time deserves a spot in your film collection. From first rate performances to a technical wizard of a “single” take, Synapse Films deliver a must own blu-ray with first rate technical specs and bonus features.
Overall: A