Where to watch Running on Empty(1988)

Name: Running on Empty
Genre: Drama, Romance, Crime
Released: 1988-09-09
Duration: 116 min
Cast: Christine Lahti, River Phoenix, Judd Hirsch, Jonas Abry, Martha Plimpton

Movie · 1988 · 1h 56m · Drama, Romance, Crime

In the United States, Running on Empty isn't included with any subscription, but you can rent or buy it on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play, and YouTube.

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Data updated on October 10, 2026. Availability data from JustWatch.

Running on Empty plot summary

They chose their lives. Now their son must choose his.

The Popes are a family who haven't been able to use their real identity for years. In the late sixties, the parents set a weapons lab afire in an effort to hinder the government's Vietnam war campaign. Ever since then, the Popes have been on the run with the authorities never far behind. Their survival is threatened when their eldest son falls in love with a girl, and announces his wish to live his life on his own terms.

Details

Release date: September 9, 1988
Runtime: 1h 56m
Genres: Drama, Romance, Crime
Directed by: Sidney Lumet
Country: United States
TMDB rating: 7.4 / 10 · 371 votes

Running on Empty trailer

Cast

Christine LahtiAnnie Pope
River PhoenixDanny Pope
Judd HirschArthur Pope
Jonas AbryHarry Pope
Martha PlimptonLorna Phillips
Ed CrowleyMr. Phillips
L.M. Kit CarsonGus Winant
Steven HillDonald Patterson
Augusta DabneyAbigail Patterson
David MarguliesDr. Jonah Reiff

FAQ

Where can I watch Running on Empty?

In the United States, Running on Empty isn't included with any subscription, but you can rent or buy it on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play, and YouTube.