Critics unanimously agree on what holds back Gal Gadot’s new Prime Video thriller The Runner from reaching its potential. Multiple reviews highlight the same recurring issues with the film’s script, direction, and overall execution.
Gal Gadot’s The Runner reviews call it a ‘mindless’ thriller
Critics have panned Gal Gadot’s new Prime Video thriller The Runner as a forgettable streaming release. MovieWeb‘s Mark Keizer called the film “as empty-calorie a thriller as Prime Video has released.” Variety‘s Dennis Harvey wrote that the film “has energy but lacks the strong suspense or novelty necessary.”
The 84-minute film follows attorney Maia Marten racing across London to save her kidnapped son. A mysterious caller, played by Damian Lewis, forces her to kill a witness within one hour. Director Kevin Macdonald helms the project from a screenplay by Mark Gibson.
IGN‘s Scott Collura gave the film a 5 out of 10, calling it a “mid-tier movie drop.” He noted that Lewis “ultimately feels wasted in the role” despite his strong screen presence. ScreenRant‘s Alex Harrison scored it 4 out of 10, stating the film is “a relatively weightless diversion.”
Several critics acknowledged Gadot’s physical commitment to the demanding role. Collura wrote, “It’s hard not to like Gadot, no matter what role she’s playing, and she gives The Runner her all.” However, Harvey countered that Gadot is not “a performer inclined to lend much more than athleticism to a role.” Heaven of Horror‘s Karina Adelgaard gave it 2 out of 5 stars.
The film’s climax drew particular criticism from multiple reviewers. Keizer described the ending as “a ludicrous ending that defies all logic.” Harvey similarly found the twist “too trickily over-contrived to impress, or convince.” Harrison noted the film “mostly follows the path set out for it, even when it thinks it’s not.” Macdonald’s stylistic choices also divided critics, with Harrison comparing them unfavorably to Danny Boyle’s work.
The film premieres on Prime Video on September 2.
