Running Scared (2006)

Chazz Palminteri helps put the thrills into the thriller Running Scared (2006), not to be confused with the action comedy Running Scared (1986) starring Gregory Hines and Billy Crystal. A mobster’s missing gun is at the center of this neo-noir flick. Under the pen and direction of Wayne Kramer, the R rated pic begins when a drug deal between a Jamaican gang and New Jersey criminals results in the deaths of two corrupt cops. As such, mafia heir Tommy Perello (Johnny Messner) tells his lackey Joey Gazelle (Paul Walker) to get rid of the weapon. Of course, things become complicated when this unlucky gangster discovers that his son Nicky (Alex Neuberger) stole the gun. If that’s not bad enough, Nicky’s best friend Oleg (Cameron Bright) uses it to kill his abusive stepfather Anzor Yugorsky (Karel Roden). And wouldn’t you know, Anzor also happens to be the nephew of the ruthless Russian mob boss Ivan Yugorsky (John Noble). As you can guess, this spells trouble for Joey and excitement for audiences. Speaking of excitement, the film has time to showcase some domestic fun amid all of the danger. Just nine minutes into the movie, we get to see Mr. Walker’s bare booty when his character’s wife Teresa (Vera Farmiga) pulls down his jeans to make love by the washing machine. Alas, this sexy scene failed to start up critics’ spin cycles. Despite the fact that this box office flop failed to rake in accolades, it still gets Mr. Man’s thumb (and prick) up!