The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner
Directed by Tony Richardson
Produced by Woodfall Film Productions
A gritty kitchen-sink drama about a working-class rebel in borstal who uses running as both escape and defiance, ultimately confronting the futility of institutional compromise.
A rebellious youth, sentenced to a boy’s reformatory for robbing a bakery, rises through the ranks of the institution by impressing its Governor through his prowess as a long distance runner. He is encouraged to compete in an upcoming race, but faces ridicule from his peers.
Essence
Ensemble
Michael Redgrave
Ruxton Towers Reformatory Governor
Tom Courtenay
Colin Smith
Avis Bunnage
Mrs. Smith
Alec McCowen
Brown, House Master
James Bolam
Mike
Joe Robinson
Roach
Dervis Ward
Detective
Topsy Jane
Audrey
Julia Foster
Gladys
James Fox
Willy Gunthorpe - Ranley School Runner (uncredited)
John Thaw
Bosworth (uncredited)
Arthur Mullard
Chief Borstal Officer (uncredited)
Like The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner
Nearest across the full emotional profile.
Same Mood as The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner
Nearest on what's most distinctive about this one.
Like The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner, But Darker
Similar, pushed toward heavier and more intense.
Like The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner, But Lighter
Similar, pushed toward warmer and easier.
Like The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner, But Less Popular
Same territory, far fewer people have seen it.
