Runner Review: Alan Ritchson and Owen Wilson Deliver Action Camp 2026

Runner review: Alan Ritchson and Owen Wilson star in this serviceable B-movie action thriller about a fixer transporting a donated liver. Directed by Scott Waugh, the film leans into camp with over-the-top violence and humor, making it a fun but forgettable watch.

The movie opens with Hank Malone, played by the impossibly muscular Alan Ritchson, living a quiet life on a houseboat in Australia. He attends AA meetings, practices French on Duolingo, and runs odd jobs like delivering exotic birds. But his past as a military operative catches up when he's hired to drive a donated liver from Brisbane airport to a sick girl. The assignment turns chaotic when Owen Wilson's character, a rival courier, gets in the way.

Runner's B-Movie Charm

What sets Runner apart is its unapologetic embrace of B-movie tropes. The car chases defy physics, the violence is knee-smashing brutal, and the dialogue is peppered with hammy one-liners. Ritchson's character is described as a 'big American Wario' by his handler, which sums up the film's playful tone. It doesn't take itself too seriously, which works in its favor.

Alan Ritchson and Owen Wilson's Chemistry

Ritchson brings his usual physicality and deadpan delivery, while Wilson adds a layer of comedic unpredictability as the antagonist. Their on-screen dynamic is a highlight, even if the script doesn't give them much depth. The film's humor often lands, making it more entertaining than the average straight-to-streaming action flick.

Action Sequences and Direction

Director Scott Waugh, known for Need for Speed, delivers solid action set pieces. The car chases are thrilling, and the fight scenes are well-choreographed. However, the pacing lags in the middle, and some plot points feel rushed. The film's 100-minute runtime is manageable, but it could have been tighter.

Here's a quick comparison of Runner with similar action films:

Key Takeaways from Runner

• Runner is a fun, campy action movie that doesn't aim for realism.
• Alan Ritchson and Owen Wilson make a compelling duo, even if the script is thin.
• The film's self-aware humor is its biggest strength.
• It's a decent choice for fans of mindless action entertainment.

Is Runner Worth Watching?

If you're looking for a serious thriller, Runner will disappoint. But if you enjoy over-the-top action with a wink, it's a good time. The film's B-movie energy keeps it engaging, and Ritchson's charisma carries the narrative. It's not a must-see, but it's a solid pick for a movie night.

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