Running Scared
Running Scared

Running Scared

1986TV ShowEnded1 SeasonEnglish

Running Scared is a British television children's drama serial produced by the BBC and transmitted on BBC 1 in 1986, based on the Bernard Ashley novel and is set in Woolwich with the Woolwich Ferry featuring in a key scene. A gritty series, Running Scared deals with a teenage girl, Paula, whose life is put at risk when she uncovers evidence that could put a local criminal gang leader behind bars. The series is notable for its use of the then recently released Kate Bush pop song Running Up That Hill as its main theme tune.

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IMDb6.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes33%
Google Users71%
Director: Peter HyamsGenres: Action, Comedy, Crime

Plot Summary

Two Chicago police detectives, Ray Hughes and Danny Costanzo, are nearing retirement and decide to take a vacation to Key West. Before they can relax, they get involved in a drug bust that goes wrong, leading them to cross paths with a ruthless drug lord. Their investigation uncovers a massive drug ring and a conspiracy that reaches higher up than they anticipated.

Critical Reception

Running Scared received mixed reviews from critics, with many praising the chemistry between the lead actors and the action sequences, but some finding the plot predictable and the blend of comedy and violence uneven. Audiences generally enjoyed the film for its entertainment value and the performances of Hines and Crystal.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for the charismatic performances of Gregory Hines and Billy Crystal.
  • The action sequences were often highlighted as exciting and well-executed.
  • Criticized for a formulaic plot and an inconsistent tone between comedy and violence.

Google audience: Audience reviews generally enjoyed the buddy-cop dynamic between Hines and Crystal, finding the film to be an entertaining action-comedy. Some viewers found the plot a bit thin but were satisfied with the overall action and humor.

Fun Fact

During the filming of a scene where Danny (Billy Crystal) is trying to learn Spanish, the actor playing the instructor is actually speaking in a mix of Spanish and Italian, a deliberate choice by director Peter Hyams to add to the comedic effect.

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