Running on Empty (1988) | How Woke Is It?

Our VerdictNot Woke

18%

Running on Empty1988

In a free society the right to critique art is essential and protected speech. These reviews reflect personal opinions and not statements of fact.

What We Think

A 1980s drama with minimal woke elements, the focus stays on nuanced storytelling and a believable family dynamic, rather than on checking identity boxes. Not a product of modern Hollywood's ideological playbook.

Score Breakdown

Compromised:Narrative Integrity

Not Woke

What is this?

The film's story is character-driven and focused on a family's struggle on the run due to radical choices made in their youth. The castings and character traits appear organic, identity factors aren't forced and the narrative is more about personal growth and family bonds than ideology.

Compromised:Cultural Foundations

Mildly Woke

What is this?

While it deals with anti-establishment themes, the film does not explicitly attack traditional family or religious values. The family unit is portrayed as loving, if unconventional, and no major characters are elevated or diminished strictly along gender or ideological lines.

Compromised:Ideological Monoculture

Mildly Woke

What is this?

Though there's an undercurrent of 60s/70s counterculture, the film largely focuses on moral complexities rather than preaching or mocking non-woke views. There are, however, limited sincerely portrayed alternative worldviews among the main characters.

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Disclaimer: In a free society the right to critique art is essential and protected as a form of free speech and freedom of expression. The reviews and commentary on this site represent personal opinions and interpretations. They are not statements of fact and should not be taken as factual claims about any individual, company, or creative work.