Running on Empty

There’s almost nothing to savor from this movie past its initial premise, and, like a funeral that drags on in the summer heat, takes far too long to get to its inevitable conclusion.

Presumably starting off as a dark comedy before morphing into a rather routine—and unfunny—romcom, this odd, bland movie seems to have been built from bits of other movies with minimal effort.

Running on Empty is just that, a reconciliation with death in a light and forceful style that achieves an entertaining film, and a direct and clear message: learn to live that life simply ends. [Full Review in Spanish]

Runs out of entertainment gas early into the film. Huffs and puffs its way to the end.

Running on Empty lacks a specific direction or tone throughout, with the messaging and the humor appearing directly in contrast to each other.

Running on Empty is so distracted from what really works about its central scenario that it keeps the movie at a regrettable distance.


A quirky jumble of genres and tones that’s as awkward as its lead character.

Running on Empty is a film with an intriguing premise and moments of brilliance, but its tonal inconsistency and scattered script prevent it from becoming anything more than a cinematic curiosity.

Generally, I found Running on Empty to be a joyful contemplation of life.

Running on Empty tries for quirky comedy with an intriguing premise, but it’s mostly a dry slog for its 90-minute runtime. Through dialogue, tone, acting, and plot, the movie is unsure what it wants to be or how to get there.