Running Scared Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Two Chicago cops decide to retire, but first they have to deal with one last drug dealer… by driving a car on train tracks.

🍿 Running Scared: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction to Danny and Ray

Danny Costanzo and Ray Hughes are two wisecracking, rule-bending Chicago cops. They are known for their unconventional methods and close partnership. They’re tasked with taking down Julio Gonzales, a rising drug kingpin in the city. They find themselves in trouble for jeopardizing a DEA operation.

Forced Vacation in Key West

After botching an undercover operation, their Captain forces them to take a vacation. They decide to go to Key West, Florida, where they embrace the laid-back lifestyle. They consider quitting the force to open a bar there, drawn to the peacefulness and beauty of the area.

Back to Chicago for One Last Job

Danny and Ray return to Chicago with the intention of retiring. But they discover that Gonzales is back on the streets after making bail. Feeling a sense of responsibility, they decide to take him down before leaving the force for good. This decision puts them in even greater danger.

Escalating Conflict with Gonzales

As they pursue Gonzales, their methods become increasingly reckless. They eventually find themselves at odds with a pair of DEA agents, Frank and Tony, who are also after Gonzales. The pursuit leads to several dangerous encounters, including a memorable car chase on the city’s elevated train tracks.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Ray Hughes (Gregory Hines): A street-wise Chicago cop and one half of a wisecracking duo contemplating retirement to Key West.
• Danny Costanzo (Billy Crystal): A street-wise Chicago cop and the other half of a comedic duo considering leaving the force to open a bar.
• Julio Gonzales (Jimmy Smits): A ruthless drug dealer and the primary target of Ray and Danny’s police work, striving to become a major crime boss.
• Anna Costanzo (Darlanne Fluegel): Danny’s ex-wife, whose presence complicates his life and becomes a target for Gonzales.
• Captain Logan (Dan Hedaya): The exasperated captain of Ray and Danny, struggling to manage their unorthodox methods while dealing with their impending retirement.
• Frank (Steven Bauer): One of the DEA agents whose undercover work is compromised by Ray and Danny’s actions.
• Snake (Joe Pantoliano): A low-level criminal and associate of Julio Gonzales who becomes a reluctant informant.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Danny: “Oh, no! Oh, I’m watching the new ‘Jeopardy!’ and a man missed a Bible question because he did not know what Deuteronomy waaaas!” – Danny uses a ridiculous voice while pretending to be an informant on a car phone to prank detectives Sigliano and Montoya.
• Danny: “Oh Motha! Motha! Can I have some more petite marshmallows in my hot cocoa…” – Danny continues to use a baby voice while on a car phone to prank detectives Sigliano and Montoya.
• Ray: “We find Gonzales, we find a crime.” – Ray expresses their determination to bring down Gonzales, even if it means bending the rules.
• Captain Logan: “You’re the detectives; go, and DETECT” – Captain Logan is trying to encourage the detectives on the case.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $25,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $38,500,726
• Worldwide Gross: $38,500,726

💥 Running Scared Reviews

Personal Review

I love “Running Scared” for its classic 80s buddy-cop vibe. The chemistry between Billy Crystal and Gregory Hines is what really makes it shine, and the Chicago setting is just awesome. The train track chase scene is still exciting after all these years. The humor hits just right, and it’s a great movie to watch when you need a fun, nostalgic escape.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of 80s action comedies”
  • “Viewers who enjoy buddy cop movies”
  • “Those who appreciate witty dialogue and comedic timing”
  • “Gregory Hines and Billy Crystal fans”
  • “Viewers interested in Chicago-based films”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Gun violence”
  • “Drug use”
  • “Some language”
  • “Suggestive themes”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “A fast-paced, Chicago-based, buddy picture, police procedural melodrama Bristling with amusing wisecracks and agile shootouts, but with our heroes doing very little that is ultimately surprising.
• AllMovie: “Director Peter Hyams delivers one awesome chase in which the heroes pursue their quarry by car, but somehow end up driving on the city’s elevated-railway tracks. Hyams is let down by the periodic lulls in his story.
• Rotten Tomatoes: “Crystal and Hines have chemistry which has never been equaled. The only flaw in this production was that the two never had the time or opportunity to make a sequel.

Audience Reactions

The chemistry between Crystal and Hines is magical, making the movie hilarious and heartwarming.: Viewers consistently praise the witty dialogue and comedic timing of the two lead actors.

The car chase on the train tracks is an iconic scene and a fan favorite.: Audiences appreciate the unique action sequences and thrilling stunts.

Overall Consensus: A fun, action-comedy with strong chemistry between the leads, “Running Scared” remains a beloved, if somewhat underrated, 80s classic.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “A sequel titled “Still Running” was planned, and different scripts were written. However, Billy Crystal and Gregory Hines felt none of the scripts were strong enough to warrant a sequel and declined them all.”
• “The filmmakers struggled to create realistic-looking snow for the Chicago scenes. The fake snow used often appeared more like frosting than actual snow, especially when seen on top of green tree leaves.”

🖥️ How to Watch Running Scared?

Running Scared (1986) is available for purchase on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies. Check local listings for potential broadcast schedules on cable networks. Unfortunately the movie is unavailable to stream as part of a subscription service.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Running Scared, you might like these similar films:

• 48 Hrs. (1982): Features a similar buddy cop dynamic with contrasting personalities forced to work together.
• Beverly Hills Cop (1984): Another iconic 80s action-comedy with a wisecracking cop out of his element.
• Lethal Weapon (1987): Established the buddy cop formula with action and humor, released shortly after Running Scared.
• The French Connection (1971): Gritty crime drama focusing on drug trafficking, offering a more serious take on law enforcement.

🛒 Running Scared Related Products

• Running Scared (Blu-ray): High-definition Blu-ray edition for the ultimate viewing experience. Enjoy crisp visuals and enhanced sound quality of this 80s classic.
• Running Scared: The Official Soundtrack: Download or stream the complete soundtrack featuring iconic tracks by Michael McDonald, Klymaxx, and more. Relive the 80s vibes!
• Running Scared Movie Poster (Limited Edition): A high-quality, limited-edition poster featuring the original movie artwork. A must-have for collectors and fans of the film.
• Chicago Police Department T-Shirt: Show your support for Chicago’s finest with this stylish T-shirt. High-quality fabric with a comfortable fit for everyday wear.

🎧 Soundtrack

Running Scared features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Sweet Freedom” – performed by Michael McDonald
• “I Know What You Want” – performed by Klymaxx
• “Man Size Love” – performed by Klymaxx
• “Running Scared” – performed by Fee Waybill

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

The worst muggers ever – Running Scared (1986)

Remember that hilariously awkward mugging scene from ‘Running Scared’? Check out this clip of Billy Crystal and Gregory Hines turning the tables on some very unlucky criminals. Honestly, these have to be the worst muggers ever!

Running Scared (1/12) Movie CLIP – You’re Mugging Us? (1986) HD

Want to see even more of that hilarious mugging scene? This clip has way more dialogue and build-up, totally worth watching! Billy Crystal and Gregory Hines are just too good.

✨ Rate