Alan Ritchson has made a name for himself as the go-to guy for characters who solve problems with their fists—or whatever blunt object is handy. His latest film, Runner, looks to continue that tradition, but with a twist: he's bringing Owen Wilson along for the ride. Angel Studios has dropped the first trailer and new images for this high-octane thriller, and it's shaping up to be a wild, heart-pounding ride.
Directed by Scott Waugh, Runner follows a former soldier (Ritchson) who finds himself in a desperate race against time. He's tasked with delivering a critical medical shipment, but a ruthless cartel has other plans. With betrayal lurking around every corner, he must survive the chase and get the cargo to its destination before an innocent child runs out of time. The official synopsis teases: "A former soldier is thrown into a brutal race against time when a critical medical delivery makes him the target of a ruthless cartel. With betrayal closing in from every side, he must survive the chase and deliver his cargo before an innocent child runs out of time."
This project marks a big swing for Angel Studios, known for distributing faith-based and family-friendly content. Waugh, who previously directed Need for Speed and Act of Valor, is clearly aiming for a crowd-pleaser. "Partnering with Angel is a game-changer, because Runner is the kind of theatrical film audiences have been waiting for – big action, real heart, and a story that brings light into this world," Waugh said in a statement. "When everything’s on the line to save a life, real men don’t run from the fire; they drive straight into it."
The script comes from Miles Hubley and Tommy White. Alongside Ritchson and Wilson, the cast includes Rodrigo Santoro (300), Leila George (Animal Kingdom), Kate Box (Deadloch), Peta Sergeant (Snowfall), Geraldine Hakewill (Wanted), Cecilia Toussaint, and Scarlett Crabtree. It's a solid ensemble that should bring some serious depth to the high-speed chaos.
Ritchson is having a massive year. He's already set to appear in Motor City this month, and later this holiday season, he'll team up with Arnold Schwarzenegger for The Man With The Bag. Of course, he's also returning as Jack Reacher in Prime Video's Reacher Season 4, which drops on August 12, before reprising the role for the spin-off Neagley on September 16. And if that weren't enough, Ritchson has revealed that the fifth season of Reacher is set to begin shooting next month, keeping him busy through 2027. Hopefully, he finds time for a nap.
For fans of Ritchson's brand of no-nonsense action, Runner looks like a perfect fit. The trailer promises car chases, gunfights, and plenty of moments where the hero just plows through obstacles. Wilson, known for his comedic roles, seems to be playing a more serious character here, adding an intriguing dynamic. It's a pairing that could bring both grit and unexpected charm to the screen.
Runner races into theaters on September 11, 2026. Mark your calendars—this one looks like it'll be worth the wait.
