Run Sweetheart Run

Movie Trailer

Release Date
October 28, 2022

Genre
Horror, Thriller

Cast & Crew

• Ella Balinska as Cherie
• Pilou Asbæk as Ethan
• Clark Gregg as James
• Shohreh Aghdashloo as The First Lady
• Betsy Brandt as Judy
• Aml Ameen as Trey

Director
Shana Feste

Other Movies Director is Known For:

• Country Strong (2010)
• Endless Love (2014)
• The Greatest (2009)

Producer
Blumhouse Productions
Jason Blum
Brian Kavanaugh-Jones
Shana Feste

Writer
Shana Feste
Keith Josef Adkins
Kellee Terrell

Budget
$10 million (estimated)

Production Company
Blumhouse Productions
Automatik

Running Time
104 minutes

Languages
English (Original)

Maturity Rating
R

Content Advisory

• Intense sequences of violence
• Strong language
• Mature themes
• Sexual content

Movie Story
Run Sweetheart Run is a tense horror-thriller that follows Cherie (Ella Balinska), a single mother and young professional living in Los Angeles, who is set up on a blind date by her boss. The date starts off charmingly enough, with Ethan (Pilou Asbæk), a handsome and successful man who seems too good to be true. However, as the night progresses, Ethan’s true nature is revealed, and the date quickly turns into a nightmarish fight for survival.

Ethan is not just a charming suitor, but a monstrous predator with a sinister and supernatural edge. As Cherie tries to escape his clutches, she finds herself hunted through the streets of Los Angeles, facing relentless pursuit. With each passing moment, it becomes clear that Ethan is no ordinary man, and his influence and power extend far beyond what Cherie could have imagined. The film explores themes of misogyny, power dynamics, and the horrors that can lurk beneath a polished exterior.

As Cherie runs for her life, she encounters various allies and obstacles, including a mysterious woman known as The First Lady (Shohreh Aghdashloo), who offers cryptic advice, and Trey (Aml Ameen), who provides much-needed assistance. The film uses a mix of intense chase sequences, psychological horror, and social commentary to keep viewers on edge. The story builds to a harrowing climax where Cherie must confront Ethan and find a way to end the nightmare once and for all.

Run Sweetheart Run stands out for its innovative narrative techniques, including breaking the fourth wall, as Cherie directly addresses the audience at critical moments, pulling viewers deeper into her terrifying experience. The film combines horror with sharp commentary on gender dynamics and the often-hidden threats faced by women in society.

Special Effects
The film uses a combination of practical effects and CGI to create its tense and terrifying atmosphere. The chase sequences are particularly well-crafted, with dynamic camera work and editing that heighten the sense of urgency and danger. The visual effects are also used to hint at Ethan’s supernatural abilities, adding an otherworldly menace to his character. The film’s urban setting is transformed into a nightmarish landscape, with lighting and sound design playing crucial roles in building suspense.

Box Office Performance
Run Sweetheart Run was released directly on Amazon Prime Video, bypassing a traditional theatrical release. The film received attention for its gripping narrative and strong performances, particularly by Ella Balinska, and found an audience through its streaming platform. While box office performance is not applicable, the film garnered a positive reception in the horror community and among those interested in socially conscious thrillers.

Filming Locations

• Los Angeles, California, USA

Notable Quotes

• “Run, sweetheart, run.” – Ethan
• “You need to stay alive. That’s the only rule tonight.” – The First Lady
• “It’s not over until I say it’s over.” – Ethan

Behind-the-Scenes
Director Shana Feste crafted Run Sweetheart Run as a personal project, drawing from her experiences and fears to create a film that blends horror with social commentary. The film’s unique narrative approach, including the protagonist’s direct interaction with the audience, was designed to engage viewers on a deeper level and create a more immersive experience. Ella Balinska’s physical and emotional performance was central to the film’s success, as she portrayed a woman pushed to her limits by an unimaginable threat. The film’s production was supported by Blumhouse Productions, known for backing innovative and genre-defying horror films.

Awards

• N/A

Final Verdict
Run Sweetheart Run is a gripping and innovative horror-thriller that combines intense action with sharp social commentary. Ella Balinska delivers a standout performance as a woman fighting for her life against a powerful and terrifying predator. The film’s unique narrative style, including its use of the fourth wall and psychological horror, sets it apart from other entries in the genre. It’s a must-watch for fans of horror films that offer more than just scares, delving into relevant and timely themes with both intensity and intelligence.

IMDb Rating
5.4/10