Running Mates – 2011

4 stars

Synopsis: Two best friends run against each other for mayor of their home town.

Cast:
Thomas Michael … Archie Fenton
Paolo Mancini … Reg Rossi
Tarah Consoli … Betsy Rossi
Jane McLean … Ronnie Fenton
Mike Beaver … Lee Marvin ‘Moose’ Rossi
DJ Qualls … Graham ‘One-Ball’ Jones
Henry Winkler … Bob Weatherbee
Graham Greene … Dilton Harper
Linda Kash … Maude Beazley
David Huband … Father McDonough
Helen Hughes … Midge Muggs
Ron Payne … Burt Hollyman

Director: Thomas Michael
Writers: Thomas Michael & Paolo Mancini  (Screenplay);  Thomas Michael (Story)
Cinematographer: Cabot McNenly
Editor: Stephen Philipson

Production Company: Fella Films

Do you ever wonder what the film industry will be like in 10 years? Does it make you depressed? What percentage of movies have you watched recently and can honestly say that someone’s complete heart and devotion went into making them? Do you think the movie was affected by Hollywood? Do you think there will still be great movies being made in 10 years that will be readily accessible? How many actors, directors, writers, producers, and the like, sell their souls to Hollywood? Maybe the end-all, be-all answer will be to look towards Canada and let the creators of RUNNING MATES restore your faith in the power of cinema.

RUNNING MATES tells the story of Archie Fenton, aka “skidmarx” and his journey back to his hometown of Shoulder to run for Mayor. Accompanied by his wife Veronica, the face of Jusco soy sauce, they are not going to let anything – or anyone get in their way; even if that means Archie has to “break-up” with his childhood friend Reg. But little did they know, Archie’s cold shoulder would cause Reg to enter the mayoral race.

Featuring on-screen interviews with the characters, RUNNING MATES seems like a mix between Trailer Park Boys and Better off Ted – and not just because of the character resemblances. The clever montages throughout the movie keep you on your toes while also advancing the storyline. To give away any specifics would be to ruin the viewer experience – but how could a movie that incorporates the election slogan “Sure, We Could!” not be witty and fun. The film uses small town stereotypes to get laughs, but the jokes are actually amusing and clever where you might expect they would fall flat.

Overall Recommendation: RUNNING MATES is the perfect blend of comedy and character development — in the end you will feel like you know the characters…and you will wish they were your Facebook friends. Be on the lookout for this one, it’s a pleasant surprise.

The Verdict: Film. [refer to the first paragraph]

Become a fan of RUNNING MATES on Facebook.