Running Wild

Running Wild is an inspirational drama film released in 2017 that seeks to capture the notion of redemption through struggle and reconciling ourselves with grief. Directed by Alex Ranarivelo, the movie presents a touching story of determination and perseverance backed by delicate emotionality that gives it a rich, enticing texture. Notable performances come from a star-studded cast that includes Emmy-nominated Sharon Stone, Tommy Flanagan, abs Jason Lewis. It's a tale of resilience and hope, in which we see the central character's transformation as she comes to terms with her despair, faces her fears, and finds solace in an unusual endeavor.

As the film starts, we meet the protagonist Stella Davis (Dorian Brown Pham), a resilient woman who finds herself bestowed with the responsibility of running her late husband's ranch after his unexpected demise. With no previous experience, but faced with bankruptcy, Stella is left with no choice but to brace for the challenge. However, she soon discovers that the ranch isn't the only thing she inherited - a herd of wild horses that her husband was apparently harboring has become her responsibility too.

With her husband's noble aim of rehabilitating these majestic animals, Stella steps up on a path none too easy. Her journey takes a turn when she hires Brannon Bratt (Jason Lewis), a convict with a troubled past but a soft spot for horses. Together, Stella and Brannon must find a way to save the ranch while dealing with their respective personal struggles.

The newcomers on the ranch include a group of convicts who are part of a rehabilitation program, and among them is the tough but mysterious Debrickshaw Smithson (Tommy Flanagan), who proves to be an unpredictable variable in this equation. Stella must put aside her prejudices and fears as she witnesses the convicts' potential and their positive influence on the ranch and wild horses. Tied together in their attempt to save the wild horses from being euthanized, the group forms an improbable camaraderie.

However, the narrative does not focus on external conflicts alone. Running Wild proceeds to delve into the nuances of one woman's internal struggle to cope with grief, economic difficulties, and the daunting task she has decided to take on. Stella's journey is inseparable from the wild horses she tries to save. Like these majestic creatures, she too is lost, neglected, and tries to find her place in her drastically altered world. In their perseverance and struggle, she perceives her reflection and reaffirms her will to overcome her troubles.

The antagonist in this story comes in the form of Meredith Parish (Sharon Stone), who plans to take over the ranch by unethical means. Parish is presented as a woman of power and cunning whose ambition threatens Stella's efforts. The ensuing struggle between the two women unfolds within the subplots of the film, adding more layers to the narrative.

Beautifully directed by Alex Ranarivelo, Running Wild captures the raw emotion and fierce determination of its characters exquisitely. Christine Moore's spectacular cinematography captures the sprawling landscapes and the freedom and beauty of wild horses, which serves as a poignant backdrop to the story and reflects the thematic depth that carries through the film.

At its heart, Running Wild is a film about finding strength amidst adversity, forgiveness through struggle, and hope in the most unexpected places. It weaves multiple narrative threads in a compelling fashion, as the script brings out the complexities of each character. The performances of the lead actors, particularly Dorian Brown Pham as the embattled Stella, and the atmospheric, soulful score further elevates the narrative.

Running Wild beautifully portrays the catharsis and recovery from loss, accompanied by the tender bonding between humans and animals. It underscores the capacity of beings, both human and animal, for mutual rehabilitation and shared emotional growth. It's an engaging ride, marked by moments of emotionality, strength, redemption, and above all, the will to keep running, even when the road ahead is unsure. A must-watch for those who appreciate heartfelt films deeply grounded in human emotions and resilience.