Running Brave (1983)
The remarkable true story of Billy Mills, a Lakota Sioux runner who defied every expectation to claim Olympic gold in Tokyo.
Running Brave - Movie Information
- Release Year: 1983
- Directed by: Donald Shebib
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Age Rating (US): PG
- Runtime: 1h 46m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): November 4, 1983 (Canada), November 4, 1983 (United States - PG)
- Production Companies: Englander Productions, Filmtrust
- Production Countries: Canada
Running Brave - Plot
The story of Billy Mills the American Indian that came from obscurity, to win the 10,000 meter long distance foot race in the Tokyo Olympics.
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Running Brave - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Donald Shebib
Main Cast
- Robby Benson
- Pat Hingle
- Claudia Cron
- August Schellenberg
- Graham Greene
- Tantoo Cardinal
- Michael J. Reynolds
- Fred Keating
- Jeff McCracken
- Denis Lacroix
Writers
- Henry Bean
- Shirl Hendryx
Producers
- Ira Englander
Running Brave - FAQs
Is Running Brave based on a true story?
Yes, Running Brave is based on the true story of Billy Mills, a Lakota Sioux athlete who grew up on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota. Against enormous odds, he won the 10,000-meter race at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics in one of the most shocking upsets in Olympic track and field history.
What happened at the end of the 1964 Olympic race?
In the final stretch of the 10,000-meter race, Billy Mills surged past the favored runners in the final lap to cross the finish line first, setting a world record. His victory was so unexpected that officials initially struggled to identify him — a moment the film depicts with powerful emotional impact.
Who plays Billy Mills in Running Brave?
Billy Mills is portrayed by Robby Benson, who delivers a committed physical and emotional performance throughout the film. The supporting cast includes Pat Hingle as Coach Bill Easton, Claudia Cron as Pat Mills, August Schellenberg as Billy's father, and Graham Greene as Eddie Mills.
Where can I stream Running Brave?
Running Brave is available on Amazon Prime Video, including Amazon Prime Video with Ads and Amazon Prime Video Free with Ads for subscribers. It can also be rented or purchased through Amazon Video for those who prefer a digital transaction without a subscription.
What is the age rating for Running Brave?
Running Brave is rated PG by the MPA, making it suitable for general audiences and family viewing. The film deals with themes of racial prejudice, personal hardship, and perseverance, but does so in a way that is accessible and appropriate for older children and teenagers.
How does Running Brave portray Native American identity?
The film places Billy Mills's Lakota Sioux heritage at the center of his story, exploring how he navigated racism, cultural displacement, and the pressure to assimilate. His identity as a Native American is framed not as an obstacle to overcome but as a source of inner strength and spiritual resolve.
Who directed Running Brave and when was it released?
Running Brave was directed by Donald Shebib, a Canadian filmmaker known for his grounded, character-driven work. The film was released on November 4, 1983, in both Canada and the United States, and was produced by Englander Productions and Filmtrust.
How long is Running Brave?
Running Brave has a runtime of 106 minutes, or approximately 1 hour and 46 minutes. The film moves through Billy Mills's early life on the Pine Ridge Reservation, his college years at the University of Kansas, and his historic performance at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics.
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