“The waves keep coming, even when the storm is over.” – Rona (played by Saoirse Ronan)

 

Facing the Outrun: A Look at Fingscheidt’s Exploration of Recovery

Nora Fingscheidt’s “The Outrun” isn’t your typical addiction drama. Sure, it features Saoirse Ronan’s captivating portrayal of Rona, a young woman battling alcoholism. But Fingscheidt’s film, based on Amy Liptrot’s memoir, transcends the genre’s well-worn path. It delves into the raw and intimate space of recovery, where the scenery is as much a character as the people, and the journey towards healing is a slow, uneven climb.

Reviews have been circling “The Outrun” since its Sundance debut, and the consensus is clear: Ronan’s performance is a knockout. Critics at Screen Daily praise her “delicacy” which gives the character “grace and steel.” Metacritic highlights how “The Outrun begins and ends with Ronan,” underscoring her ability to carry the film. This isn’t surprising; Ronan consistently delivers stellar performances, and “The Outrun” is no exception. Here, she portrays Rona with a quiet intensity, a woman haunted by the past but desperately clinging to the hope of a future. We see the physical toll addiction has taken, the tremors in her hands, the exhaustion etched on her face. But there’s also a flicker of defiance in her eyes, a refusal to be completely consumed by her demons.

However, some reviewers felt the film’s narrative faltered. InSession Film argues that the story unfolds “in a hasty fashion,” lacking the emotional depth it strives for Similarly, Screen Daily acknowledges the film’s “welcome modesty” but suggests it might hold it back from awards contention. There’s a truth to these observations. “The Outrun” prioritises intimacy over sweeping drama. We see Rona’s struggles unfold in a series of moments: a tense conversation with her estranged parents (Saskia Reeves and Stephen Dillane, both excellent in understated roles), a moment of quiet solace on the windswept Orkney coast, a relapse that threatens to derail her fragile progress. While some might crave a more propulsive narrative, this approach allows for a nuanced exploration of Rona’s internal world. We witness the self-loathing that fuels her addiction, the guilt over past actions, and the flicker of hope that keeps her moving forward.

What truly elevates “The Outrun” is its connection to the natural world. Fingscheidt’s camera lingers on the rugged beauty of the Orkney Islands, Rona’s childhood home. The desolate landscapes mirror Rona’s emotional state, but they also offer a sense of possibility. There’s a raw power in the crashing waves and the endless skies, a reminder of a world that persists even amidst personal turmoil. This visual poetry is further amplified by Imer’s cinematography, which captures the harsh beauty of the islands with a touch of grace. We see the unforgiving terrain, the sparse vegetation clinging to life, and the ever-changing light that paints the sky in dramatic hues. It’s a constant presence, a silent observer of Rona’s struggles, and a potential source of strength.

Comparisons have been drawn to films like “Leave No Trace,” another character study set against a stunning natural backdrop [4]. Both films explore themes of isolation and healing, but “The Outrun” feels more raw, more intimate. There’s a sense of urgency in Rona’s journey, a desperate attempt to outrun the demons of her past. She throws herself into physical labour at a local bird sanctuary, a connection to nature that becomes a crucial part of her recovery. Witnessing the resilience of the birds—their ability to adapt and survive—offers Rona a glimmer of hope.

The film doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of addiction. We see the physical toll, the emotional breakdowns, and the constant struggle to stay sober. There are moments of relapse, setbacks that threaten to derail her progress. But Fingscheidt doesn’t wallow in misery. There’s a quiet resilience in Rona, a determination to fight for a better life. The film finds moments of beauty and grace even in the midst of darkness, a testament to the human spirit’s ability to heal.

“The Outrun” is a slow burn, a film that demands your patience but rewards it with a nuanced and moving portrait of addiction and recovery. Saoirse Ronan delivers a career-defining performance, capturing the complexities of Rona’s character with remarkable depth. Fingscheidt’s direction is both assured and poetic, weaving a narrative that is as much about the journey as the destination. The film might not be for everyone; those seeking a fast-paced, action-packed story might find it lacking. But for those willing to invest their time, “The Outrun” offers a powerful and unforgettable experience. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, a testament to the enduring power of hope, and a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

 

 

Beyond Ronan’s Performance

While Ronan’s performance is undeniably the centrepiece of “The Outrun,” the supporting cast deserves recognition as well. Saskia Reeves and Stephen Dillane deliver subtle yet powerful portrayals of Rona’s estranged parents. Their strained relationship with their daughter adds another layer of complexity to the narrative, highlighting the emotional toll addiction takes not just on the addict but also on their loved ones.

The film also benefits from a strong sense of community. The people of Orkney, a tight-knit group living in a remote location, provide a sense of support and acceptance for Rona. We see this in the kindness of the woman who runs the bird sanctuary (played by a remarkable Eileen O’Higgins), the taciturn farmer who offers Rona a job (an understated performance by Jonah Ryan), and the local pub owner who provides a listening ear (a scene-stealing cameo by James Cosmo). These interactions, though brief, add depth to the world Fingscheidt has created and showcase the power of human connection in the face of adversity.

 

A Story of Hope, Not Redemption

“The Outrun” is ultimately a story of hope, not redemption. Rona’s journey is far from linear. There are setbacks, moments of doubt, and the ever-present threat of relapse. The film doesn’t offer easy answers or pat resolutions. Instead, it paints a realistic portrait of recovery, a process that is messy, challenging, and ultimately a lifelong endeavour.

 

Final Verdict

“The Outrun” is a slow burn, a film that demands your patience but rewards it with a nuanced and moving portrait of addiction and recovery. Saoirse Ronan delivers a career-defining performance, and Fingscheidt’s direction is both assured and poetic. The film’s connection to the natural world elevates the narrative, offering a powerful visual counterpoint to Rona’s internal struggles. While the pacing might feel uneven at times, and the story might leave some viewers wanting more closure, “The Outrun” is a film that stays with you long after you leave the theatre. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, a testament to the enduring power of hope, and a film that deserves to be seen.

 

Is It for You?

If you’re looking for a fast-paced, action-packed film, “The Outrun” might not be your cup of tea. However, if you appreciate character-driven dramas with stunning visuals and a powerful message, then this film is definitely worth seeking out. It’s a film that will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled with addiction, with self-doubt, or with the desire to outrun the demons of their past.