Run This Town
After graduation, Bram gets his dream job at a local newspaper. In his mind he’s the next Woodward (but he’s probably more of a Bernstein). A year in, he realizes that maybe the paper business is no longer what he’d seen in the movies. Instead of investigative journalism, he is writing easily consumable Top 10 Lists - Best Hot Dogs in the City! Ten Ways to Tell You Grew Up in the 90s! After the paper is hit with another round of layoffs, Bram stumbles upon a potentially explosive story involving the city’s controversial mayor. But he needs to beat the mayor’s smooth talking aide, Kamal, to the punch. This could be Bram’s big break — if he had any idea how to be a real journalist.
Insights
Plot Summary
In the city of Toronto, a journalist and three young men grapple with the fallout of a scandal involving a city council member and a police officer. As the story unfolds, it delves into the complexities of race, class, and the pursuit of truth in a divided urban landscape. The film explores how interconnected lives are affected by power, corruption, and personal ambition.
Critical Reception
Run This Town received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised its ambition and the performances of its cast, particularly Ben Affleck and Jharrel Jerome, others found the narrative to be unfocused and the exploration of its themes to be somewhat superficial. The film's attempt to weave multiple storylines together was seen as both a strength and a weakness.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for strong performances from its lead actors, particularly Ben Affleck.
- Criticized for a convoluted plot that struggles to balance its multiple storylines.
- Noted for its timely exploration of themes like race, class, and media ethics.
Google audience: Audience reviews suggest a divided reception, with many appreciating the film's relevant social commentary and acting. However, a significant portion found the story to be unfocused and lacking a clear narrative drive, leading to a sense of disappointment.
Fun Fact
The film is inspired by real-life events that occurred in Toronto, though it takes creative liberties with the characters and specific circumstances.
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