Based on the true story of its writer, Amy Liptrot, THE OUTRUN follows biology graduate student dropout Rona’s (Saoirse Ronan) journey with alcoholism and her decision to return home to Scotland. As the premise might suggest, this film isn’t light-hearted. Yet, it constantly balances its darkness with stunning shots of coastal Scottish isles and bucolic farms, contrasting scenes in the continually busy London. This movie looks so good – some of the cinematography looks like it was plucked from a nature documentary. THE OUTRUN also occasionally and cleverly utilizes alternative mediums, including animation and biological slates, subtly enough to avoid feeling out of place.
Saoirse Ronan, who plays the main character and produced the film, shines as Rona. She brings so much depth and complexity to the role – which is necessary for ensuring our empathy as we watch and grow with her. For any SLOW HORSES fans – Saskia Reeves (who plays Catherine Standish, another recovering alcoholic in the aforementioned TV show) plays Rona’s mother in THE OUTRUN, and Jack Lowden (who plays River Cartwright and is Ronan’s IRL spouse) co-produced this film.
THE OUTRUN is a rare film that balances hopefulness, desperation, and humanity while remaining contemplative and compelling. It’s a feel-good story that avoids being saccharine. THE OUTRUN is currently playing in limited theaters.
