From the pavement to the screen: running stars in cinema

Since running became a part of popular imagination, it has logically appeared on the big screen. Marathons.com explores some of the greatest films ever made about running. A subjective view.

The 20th century witnessed the rise of cinema, emerging in the Western world at the end of the 19th century, both in the United States and Europe (Edison and the Lumière brothers, to name a few). As discussed on our site, running became a social phenomenon during the 60s and 70s. It was only natural that these two phenomena would intersect at some point… Many films featuring male or female runners have emerged, much to the delight of cinema and running enthusiasts. Here’s a cinematic overview with ten films from various eras, from the early 60s to today. All quality picks!

The loneliness of the long distance runner (1962), the precursor

We have to start somewhere. “The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner,” a British film released in 1962, perfectly symbolizes its era and what running represented at that time: a journey to self-discovery, a quest for freedom, a connection to one’s environment. Based on a novella by Alan Sillitoe, the film features a young delinquent, Colin Smith, who finds in running a form of rebellion and personal reflection. This is in line with the various movements seen in Western youth during those years. Tony Richardson’s film almost preempts its time, considering its release year. Seventeen years later, “The Jericho Mile” (1979) revisits this theme of personal struggle and resistance with a different storyline. Inspired by real events, it tells the story of Billy Hayes, an American imprisoned in Turkey for drug trafficking. For him, running becomes a symbol of freedom and resistance, a way to keep his mind and body fit under oppressive conditions.

Forrest Gump (1994) and Marathon Man (1976), the giants

“The Jericho Mile,” directed by renowned filmmaker Michael Mann (Heat, The Insider…), was so successful on television that it made its way to the big screen. But three years earlier, another film achieved immense critical and popular success: “Marathon Man,” of course! Dustin Hoffman plays Thomas Levy, a history student and amateur runner caught in an international conspiracy. Pursued by Nazis, his race against time continues… This feature film, directed by John Schlesinger, received numerous Golden Globe nominations and was a massive popular success. Dustin Hoffman, whose talent had been recognized a few years prior, undoubtedly contributed to its success. Is “Marathon Man” the most successful film featuring running? Not quite! Nearly 20 years later, Forrest Gump shattered records, becoming a global phenomenon. Tom Hanks plays Forrest Gump, an ordinary man whose extraordinary life spans several decades of American history. His running, triggered by a need to escape his problems, is one of the film’s great moments. Tom Hanks arguably delivers his greatest performance in this magnificent, timeless film.

In cinema too, running evolves with society

Running, though often a personal challenge, is not always limited to individual pursuits. Many beautiful films have highlighted societal struggles, some of which remain relevant today… Films such as “Chariots of Fire” (1981), “The Finishers” (2014), “On the Line” (2014), and “Sarah Prefers to Run” (2013) address issues like anti-Semitism, disability, social injustice, and feminist movements. These struggles gain unique strength through the lens of running. The first of these is a classic of British cinema. The film recounts the true story of two British athletes, Harold Abrahams (pictured above, 1924 Olympic 100 meters winner) and Eric Liddell, at the 1924 Olympic Games. “The Finishers” successfully addresses the theme of disability without falling into clichés or pathos. Julien, a disabled teen, embarks on an Ironman challenge with his father… We also really love the Quebec film “Sarah Prefers to Run” (2013) directed by Chloé Robichaud.

All these films inspire a desire to run. To run for the right reasons, however, unlike Johann Rettenberger in “The Robber” (2010), a relentless marathoner and pathological bank robber… A true story!