Running on Empty (1988) Original Rolled Poster 27x40

Running on Empty is a 1988 drama that follows the story of the Pope family, who have been living on the run for years after the parents participated in a politically motivated bombing during the Vietnam War era. Constantly changing identities to avoid capture by the FBI, their fugitive lifestyle begins to unravel when their teenage son, Danny, a gifted pianist, is offered a chance to attend a prestigious music school. As Danny falls in love and dreams of a stable future, he is torn between loyalty to his family and the desire to pursue his own path. Featuring powerful performances, especially by River Phoenix, who earned an Academy Award nomination, the film explores themes of sacrifice, identity, and the emotional toll of living in hiding.