A well-intentioned drama with a social theme, "The Runaway" is designed to show how some people in the 40s began to question the injustice of racism in the South. It is an effective detective story and contains a positive message. Although the use of the Conjure Woman seems to smack of humanism and the occult, the story does not focus on this prophetess. The film centers on the friendship of the two 12-year-old boys and a dedicated sheriff who stands up for his principles. It shows that often a person is not popular when he does the right thing.
Perhaps not the best Hallmark production I have ever seen, but it does entertain - and without any objectionable language or excessive violence. Although the villain threatens his wife and it is discovered that he has committed dastardly deeds, the content is not exploitive or excessive. And justice is served. Good movie. James Welch Henderson Arkansas 4/21/21.
Plot summary
In a Dixie small-town, the late Sheriff was quite content to preside over a truly segregated community. There the rich brothers, Harlan and Mason Davis, are lords. His successor, World War II veteran Frank Richards, has a more modern view on justice and equality, which doesn't help his social acceptance anywhere. He also has doubts about the mysterious masked 'peg-leg' to whom all murders where ascribed. Harlan is shot after an African-American boy threatens him with a gun to stop his old-fashioned 'liberalities'. Frank and the prosecutor's retired dad, agree to act as defense council, investigate, cued by the boy's Caucasian playmate, Luke Winter, and turn both case and town around.
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Very good movie
Film that says something
The whole cast admirably put across what i imagine was a difficult time in U.S. history, i.e. the 'race' issue in the 50's. The friendship between Sonny and Luke was central to the story in that they only saw friendship and not "colour". Being a Dean Cain fan i was anxious to see how he would play the sheriff but i was not disappointed as he showed the sheriff to be a fair in his dealings with everyone in the town. It showed Dean's love of history in that he really believed in this role. He came across as a person who does not see "colour" himself.
Yes a very enjoyable film.
I thought the film was great!
Duane McLaughlin, the kid who played Sonny Monroe did a really good job! I believe that he truly captured the essence of an African American boy who had to deal with many problems at such a young age. Dean Cain, better known as "Superman" from the Lois and Clark Adventures also did a good job.
Best of Luck- Charles
PS.
As a young actor myself, I could truly appreciate his work.