Movie spotlight
A mental patient with a violent past is released from the institution, against the advice of his doctors, and sent back to his old neighborhood. Was he released too soon?
A young, ambitious truck driver named Johnny is lured into a dangerous life of crime by his employer. He finds himself caught in a web of blackmail and murder, desperately trying to escape the criminal underworld before it consumes him entirely. His efforts to go straight are constantly thwarted by the ruthless individuals he became entangled with.
The Night Runner received a mixed reception upon its release. While some critics appreciated its gritty portrayal of crime and its taut atmosphere, others found the plot predictable and the characters somewhat underdeveloped. It is generally considered a serviceable B-movie noir from the era.
Praised for its tense atmosphere and crime thriller elements.
Criticized for a somewhat formulaic plot typical of the genre.
Features a solid lead performance from Jack Kelly.
Google audience: Audience reception information for 'The Night Runner (1957)' on Google is not readily available.
The film was originally intended to be released as 'Night Run' but was changed to 'The Night Runner' shortly before its release.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources
I can't say I am too familiar with Ray Danton, but his dashing good looks and considered performance go some way to keeping this sad and complicated melodrama out of the doldrums. We know from the start that he has been released from a psyc...