Running On Empty: The Cast And Their Stories
The 1988 film Running on Empty tells the story of a family on the run from the FBI, but who brought these characters to life? Let's take a look at the main cast and what made their performances so compelling.
Key Cast Members of Running on Empty
- River Phoenix as Danny Pope: Phoenix delivered a powerful performance as the musically gifted Danny, torn between his family's fugitive life and his own dreams. His portrayal earned him an Academy Award nomination.
- Christine Lahti as Annie Pope: Lahti played the role of Annie, the mother and a former radical, with incredible depth. She captured the internal conflict of a woman dedicated to her family but yearning for a different life.
- Judd Hirsch as Arthur Pope: Hirsch portrayed the father, Arthur, the leader of the family always looking over his shoulder. His performance highlighted the weariness and determination of a man trying to protect his family.
- Martha Plimpton as Lorna Phillips: Plimpton played Lorna, Danny's music teacher's daughter and love interest. She was the catalyst for Danny's desire to break free from his family's past.
Supporting Roles
The supporting cast added depth and richness to the story:
- Ed Crowley as Mr. Patterson
- L.M. Kit Carson as Gus Wheeler
- August Schellenberg as Ben Plimpton
The actors delivered authentic performances, enhancing the film's emotional impact.
Where Are They Now?
Many of the cast members have continued successful careers in film and television. River Phoenix's untimely death in 1993 was a tragic loss, but his performance in Running on Empty remains a testament to his talent. Christine Lahti, Judd Hirsch, and Martha Plimpton have enjoyed long and respected careers, continuing to deliver memorable performances.
Running on Empty remains a powerful film due in large part to the strength of its cast. Their ability to bring complex characters to life made the story resonate with audiences and continues to do so today.
