Following its premiere at the 2025 Adelaide Film Festival, South Australian filmed and produced dystopian film ‘The Run’ begins a strictly limited cinematic release ahead of its digital release on 17 June.
Set in Australia’s near future, ‘The Run’ plunges audiences into a dark and gritty world where much of the population has been decimated by an unknown virus that has left survivors facing a fertility crisis. Hardened survivor Mac has carved out a meagre existence working as a reluctant courier for the armed militias and criminal organisations that now roam regional South Australia. But his life of quiet indifference is thrown into chaos when he crosses paths with Aliah, a young woman desperately trying to protect her newborn daughter from a gang of ruthless criminals. Locked in a tense game of cat and mouse, the pair embark on a dangerous journey that will test Mac’s loyalties and his morality.
Callan Mulvey delivers an intense performance as Mac; a man whose sullen demeanour masks a tragic past. Although he initially appears disconnected – almost numb – to the reality of the world around him there is a quiet strength to Mac which shines through as the story progresses and Mulvey’s ability to capture the complexities of his character is truly impressive. Charlotte Maggi’s emotionally charged performance beautifully captures the heartbreaking fragility and hidden resilience of Aliah, a deeply traumatised young woman charged (or perhaps burdened) with the impossible task of ushering her newborn to safety. Felix Cameron is impressive as Tom, a young man who rises to the occasion when he is caught up in Mac and Aliah’s troubles while Taylor Wiese, Tim Phillipps and Joe Romeo complete the talented cast as the criminal brothers pursuing Aliah.
Written and directed by Stephen de Villiers, the underlying premise of ‘The Run’ is reminiscent of the 2006 film ‘Children Of Men’ and while the two certainly share some common elements, Villiers’ powerful emphasis on morality and emotional connections combined with his unashamedly flawed and deeply relatable characters creates an unexpected sense of hope that sets ‘The Run’ apart from others in the genre.
A subtle yet powerful musical score further heightens the emotional intensity of the film by playing on the audience’s subconscious mind. Soft, melodic tones put viewers at ease as they witness tender moments of love and respect between Mac, Tom, Aliah and her baby; while faster, sharper sounds create an ominous sense of dread that foreshadows the impending arrival of dangerous characters and situations.
The dense bushland, sweeping grassy plains and rugged coastlines of the Fleurieu Peninsula and Adelaide Hills showcase the natural beauty of regional SA, creating a hauntingly beautiful wasteland which perfectly captures the frightening isolation of a country in turmoil.
An evocative exploration of morality and survival, ‘The Run’ is a post-apocalyptic action film with heart that asks audiences 'when the world as you know it ends, what – or who – would you sacrifice to survive?'
