The Runner is a very straightforward and powerful film that reflects the social reality in Iran after the Revolution. Almost every subject in the movie symbolizes the long for modernity and the doubt of tradition. For example, the ships, the planes, the train, the ice, as well as the weak women, dumpsters, the handicapped etc. directly show the disparity between modernity and tradition. The director brilliantly uses the kids as observers to approach these hot issues easily without being banned in terms of sexism. The film is beautifully shot, using a lot of silhouettes with strong contrast between light and darkness. The impressive young actor is another essential element that makes the film successful. The climax is at the end when all the kids were competing fiercely, kicking each other, for a piece of ice in the hot dry land and water. They shared the ice afterwards, which makes the film not too sad. However, this film is too intense and straightforward. It may be better if the director could leave some space for the audience. Lead the audience to ponder deeply instead of showing everything apparently.
