Run Sweetheart, Run(2020) || A Metaphor-laden Narrative

I wasn’t entirely pleased with this film’s execution but I like it because it awakened a feminist critical perspective in me. You know, sometimes you start a movie expecting one thing and get pulled into something totally unexpected. That was my experience with this one. I figured I was in for a straightforward thriller about a bad date gone wrong but this film takes that concept, twists it and complements it with horror, social commentary and raw feminist energy. If I’m being honest, It’s not a perfect film but it definitely knows what it’s trying to say and it screams it real loud for those in the back. Lol.

Synopsis

The story follows Cherie (Ella Balinska), a single mom and legal intern who’s reluctantly sent on a blind dinner date by her boss. The man she’s meant to meet, Ethan (Pilou Asbæk) seems charming at first. He seems rich, elegant, and somewhat intelligent. Until, things spiral quickly from romantic to horrific when he attacks her in his home, revealing himself to be something far more dangerous than just a controlling man.

Cherie however manages to escape outside, only to realize the encounter isn’t just about fleeing a bad guy. There’s a larger, sinister force at play.

My Thoughts? Well Let’s Get On With It

At its core, this is a survival thriller with a not so strong horror undertone anyway. But, it’s also a metaphor-laden narrative about patriarchy, gaslighting, and the silence surrounding abuse, especially when these things come from people with influence.

This film’s biggest strength lies in Cheries transformation from a terrified victim to a fierce survivor. She actually gives a raw, emotionally charged performance.

As for Ethan, I don’t like him but he carries out his role with a chilling charm. There’s a supernatural twist to his character that I won’t spoil, but it leans into allegory rather than straight-up horror. He represents more than just a predator. He is entitlement. He is control. He is male privilege personified.
One of the most interesting choices in the film is how it occasionally reminds you that it isn’t just a fictional tale. It’s a reality for too many women. The stylized visuals, flashes of red, the eerie score, the urban night setting all add to the disorienting experience, making Cherie’s hunt feel palpable.

But here’s where the film stumbles: although with its metaphor laden narrative which seems to be the most important aspect of the film, I feel the characters lacked depth. Also, some scenes felt overly preachy but still, I’d argue the film’s ambition outweighs its flaws if you’re watching it critically and not just for the entertainment.

After my analysis of this film, I figured it was okay to infer it is a feminist horror-thriller that doesn’t shy away from making its message clear: survival isn’t just about running. It is always difficult for most women but those who don’t succumb but stay to fight realize in the end that it’s about reclaiming power. Many women out there find themselves in similar situations as Cherie’s. Some get unalived real quick while some fight for their survival. Well, this film brings awareness and I hope many more people get to see it. Instinct is another thing that is subtly depicted here. Some of us ignore our instincts and are faced with the worst. All I can say is, when your instincts kick you hard in the chest, don’t ignore it.

All in all, if you’re into horror with a message, this one will keep you on edge but, viewers discretion is advised.
Rating? Well a 3.5/5 is not bad.

PS: Directed by: Shana Feste