Runner Debuts as Short Buddy Action That Runs on Lead Chemistry

Overview

• Runner opened in theaters on Friday, September 11, 2026, as a 97–98 minute buddy action‑comedy starring Alan Ritchson and Owen Wilson.
• The plot centers on Ritchson's ex‑Navy SEAL and Wilson's medical courier racing to deliver a liver for a dying child while a cartel pursues them, a premise critics say mainly serves set pieces rather than deep plotting.
• Reviewers single out Ritchson and Wilson's odd‑couple chemistry as the film's chief strength and credit both actors with lifting otherwise familiar material.
• Multiple critics note a surprisingly high level of on‑screen violence despite the PG‑13 rating and highlight Angel Studios' faith‑linked distribution as a tonal contrast to the film's brutality.
• Assessments praise director Scott Waugh's efficient, well‑choreographed action but call the film workmanlike and streaming‑friendly, with early reviews landing mixed‑to‑positive scores (examples: RogerEbert 3/4, Empire 3/5, IGN 6/10, Rotten Tomatoes ~70%).