What is "The Running Man" about?

"The Running Man" is a bittersweet Hollywood drama that follows acclaimed actor Jay Kelly, played by George Clooney, as he grapples with an existential crisis and reflects on his life and career.

How does Jay Kelly's relationship with his daughter Jessica affect him?

Jay Kelly's estranged relationship with his eldest daughter, Jessica, is a key source of regret for him, as she challenges his self-centered behavior and questions his priorities.

What role does the film festival tribute play in the story?

The film festival tribute in Tuscany becomes a catalyst for Jay Kelly to confront his past and the choices that have left him feeling unfulfilled, as he watches his life play out on the screen during the event.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Acclaimed Actor Grapples with Existential Crisis in Bittersweet Hollywood Drama

Acclaimed Actor Grapples with Existential Crisis in Bittersweet Hollywood Drama

13 Nov

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Summary

A-list actor Jay Kelly reflects on his life and career in a meta-portrait
Struggling with emptiness despite fame and success
Estranged relationship with daughter Jessica a key source of regret

Acclaimed Actor Grapples with Existential Crisis in Bittersweet Hollywood Drama

In a poignant exploration of fame and regret, the upcoming Netflix film "The Running Man" follows acclaimed actor Jay Kelly as he navigates a personal and professional reckoning. As Kelly, played by George Clooney, prepares to attend a film festival tribute in his honor, he is forced to confront the emptiness he feels despite his success.

Kelly's existential crisis is fueled by a series of events, including the death of his mentor, a filmmaker who gave him his big break, and the impending departure of his college-age daughter Daisy for a summer in Europe. Tensions also arise with his estranged eldest daughter, Jessica, who challenges Kelly's self-centered behavior.