Running Scared (2006) not to be confused with the movie of the same name made in 1986 is an action thriller that stars Paul Walker (Fast and the Furious) as Joey Gazelle whose life is thrown into turmoil when a drug raid goes bad. During a heated drug exchange between the Mafia and another criminal organisation, a group of corrupt police officers crash the exchange in an attempt to secure not only the money but also the drugs.

Unfortunately a false move by those involved leads to an explosive gunfight that results in the death of two police officers. With that said, this scene is easily one of the most impressive and well choreographed gun fights that I have seen in awhile. This also sets up the scene for the entire movie of an anti-hero who reached the extreme point in desperation.

Joey is then given the task of disposing the gun that shot the police officers but when he hides the evidence at home, he is unaware that his son and his best friend Olef (Cameron Bright) are watching. Olef decides to take the gun home and when his Russian step father starts abusing his wife, he shoots his stepfather in the shoulder and then makes a dash for freedom.

The movie takes place in one night where the gun falls into the hands of various shady people from a prostitute, cleaner and a pimp as Joey tries to reclaim the item that eventually leads to the explosive final with the Russian mob and the Mafia. If the gun falls into the hands of the police, not only is his life in danger but also his family.

Even though I thoroughly enjoyed the movie, one cannot help but smirk, knowing that this movie is directed at the male audience. For instance, the Mafia decide to meet where all criminal organisations allegedly meet, a strip club and although you know were they are located, the camera man has been ordered to every now and then veer up close to a naked female gyrating in the club.

Although the main story is rather focused, every now and then the loose ends of the story suddenly end with no true explanation but needless to say, Running Scared is an entertaining ride from start to finish. Great cinematography, strong acting performances, especially by Paul Walker, Cameron Bright and Chazz Palminteri as the bent cop, Running Scared is definitely worth seeing. 

Presented in an aspect ratio of 16:9 widescreen with gorgeous Dolby Digital 5.1, Running Scared is a high quality presentation, although extremely clichéd and very reminiscent of a 1980's action movie with its disregard to human life and blatant nudity. Discretion is required and definitely recommended to the male audience. Unfortunately no extras are included in this release.