Running Scared (1985)

A short film that turns jealousy into something far darker — Robert Fortier's taut 1985 portrait of obsession and stalking.

Running Scared - Movie Information

  • Original Title: Running Scared
  • Release Year: 1985
  • Directed by: Robert Fortier
  • Type: Movie
  • Runtime: 28m
  • Original Language: English

Running Scared - Plot

An intensely jealous boyfriend's spying and scolding ways rapidly escalate to full blown stalking.

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Running Scared - Cast & Crew

Director(s)

  • Robert Fortier

Main Cast

  • Stephen Mendel
  • Wanda Cannon
  • David Conner
  • Len Watt
  • Robert Parson
  • Joy Boushel
  • Babs Gadbois
  • James Rae
  • Mitch Martin

Writers

  • Robert Fortier

Producers

  • Sam Grana
  • Barrie Howells

Running Scared - FAQs

What is Running Scared (1985) about?

Running Scared follows a deeply jealous boyfriend whose possessive behavior — constant spying and scolding — gradually crosses the line into full-blown stalking. The short film offers a chilling, compact portrait of how controlling relationships can escalate into something genuinely threatening and dangerous.

Who directed Running Scared in 1985?

Running Scared was directed by Robert Fortier, who also wrote the screenplay. Fortier crafted this short film as a focused, unsettling look at jealousy and obsession, keeping the narrative tight within its 28-minute runtime.

Who are the main actors in Running Scared?

The cast features Stephen Mendel as Paul and Wanda Cannon as Cathy in the central roles. They're joined by David Conner as Ron, Len Watt as J.D., Robert Parson as Hector, Joy Boushel as Joan, Babs Gadbois as Mother, James Rae as Steve, and Mitch Martin.

How long is Running Scared (1985)?

Running Scared runs for 28 minutes, making it a short film. Despite its brief runtime, it manages to build a genuinely tense and uncomfortable atmosphere as the protagonist's jealousy spirals into increasingly alarming stalking behavior.

Does Running Scared explore real dangers of stalking?

Absolutely. The film traces the psychological progression from jealousy to obsession to outright stalking in a way that feels uncomfortably real. It's an early cinematic treatment of intimate partner surveillance and control, themes that remain deeply relevant in conversations about relationship abuse and personal safety today.

What are similar movies to Running Scared (1985)?

If Running Scared resonates with you, check out Unlocked (2023), Vincent Must Die (2023), Lover, Stalker, Killer (2024), Through My Window (2022), and Unknown Number: The High School Catfish (2025). Each explores obsession, surveillance, or dangerous relationship dynamics in compelling ways.

Where can I watch Running Scared (1985)?

Streaming availability for Running Scared varies by region and platform. Your best bet is to check JustWatch, which aggregates current viewing options across all major streaming services and rental platforms so you can find where it's available in your area right now.

Who was the cinematographer for Running Scared?

The cinematography for Running Scared was handled by David De Volpi. His work on the film helps establish the claustrophobic, watchful atmosphere that makes the story's escalating tension feel so immediate and unsettling throughout its compact 28-minute runtime.

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