The 14 Best Movies About Running Away
Photo: Manny & Lo / Sony Pictures Classics

The 14 Best Movies About Running Away

Ranker Film
Updated April 28, 2024 14 items
Voting Rules

Vote on these movies about running away - whether it be running away from a bad home situation or the law.

The lure of the open road, the rush of uncharted territory, and the quest for personal freedom have long been fuel for captivating cinema. Movies about running away delve into the myriad reasons that drive characters to leave everything behind—from the pursuit of adventure to the desperation of escape. This curated list of movies brings together the best films about running away, each telling a unique story of flight and freedom.

For example, in The Kings of Summer, the youthful desire to break free from parental control and societal structures leads a trio of friends to build their own rule-free utopia in the wilderness. Meanwhile, Catch Me If You Can spins the thrilling tale of a young con artist's globe-trotting escapades while evading the relentless pursuit of law enforcement. And Born Innocent presents a harrowing journey as a young girl struggles to navigate and ultimately flee from a stark and unforgiving juvenile detention system.

These narratives not only offer exhilarating escapism but also explore the deeper motivations and consequences of the decision to run away. As the characters navigate their paths toward self-discovery or self-preservation, audiences are taken along for the ride - each film a distinct footprint on the vast landscape of runaway cinema. These are the top movies about running away, curated and then ranked by fellow movie enthusiasts - so be sure to vote on your favorites.

  • Manny & Lo
    Photo: Manny & Lo
    1
    6 votes

    Manny & Lo

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Indie, Family
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Running Away: A darkly comedic take on sibling bonds and survival, Manny & Lo tells the story of two orphaned sisters who strike out on their own, kidnapping a woman along the way to help with an impending childbirth. Showcasing superb performances from Scarlett Johansson and Aleksa Palladino, this quirky indie gem explores themes like sisterhood, resilience, and facing life's challenges head-on.

    Runaway sisters (Scarlett Johansson, Aleksa Palladino) kidnap a bizarre shop clerk (Mary Kay Place), learn one sister is pregnant and hole up in an isolated model home.
  • Catch Me If You Can
    Photo: Catch Me if You Can
    2
    14 votes

    Catch Me If You Can

    For Fans Of: Crime, Drama, Biography, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Running Away: Embodying the ultimate cat-and-mouse chase, this film follows the exhilarating journey of Frank Abagnale Jr. as he runs away from home and becomes a master con artist, defrauding millions of dollars while expertly evading FBI agent Carl Hanratty. Through impeccable performances by Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks, the movie exemplifies both the thrill and consequences that come with running away and living on one's own terms.

    In the thrilling film Catch Me If You Can, we follow the intriguing escapades of Frank Abagnale Jr. (Leonardo DiCaprio), a master of deception and a skilled forger. With his cunning, he successfully poses as a pilot, doctor, and lawyer, all while cashing millions in fraudulent checks. Hot on his heels is seasoned FBI agent Carl Hanratty (Tom Hanks), who's made it his mission to capture him. Navigating through this cat-and-mouse game, the movie explores themes of identity and deception. Directed by Steven Spielberg, this biographical crime film was nominated for two Academy Awards.
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  • Dawn: Portrait of a Teenage Runaway
    Photo: Dawn: Portrait of a Teenage Runaway
    3
    13 votes

    Dawn: Portrait of a Teenage Runaway

    For Fans Of: Drama, Teen
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Running Away: As a harrowing portrayal of the dark side of running away, this made-for-TV drama centers around 15-year-old Dawn Wetherby who flees her troubled home only to face exploitation and danger on the streets of Hollywood. The raw, emotional performance by Eve Plumb gives viewers an intimate look into the vulnerability and desperation experienced by countless runaways seeking solace outside their homes.

    Fed up with the constant humiliation she endures from her alcoholic mother, teenager Dawn Wetherby (Eve Plumb) decides to run away from home to what she believes will be a better life in Hollywood, Calif. Upon arriving, however, she quickly finds that no one will employ a girl so young, and in no time is led into a life of prostitution by smooth-talking pimp Swan (Bo Hopkins). Despite her dire circumstances, she finds solace in her friendship with a male hustler named Alex (Leigh McCloskey).
  • Hunt for the Wilderpeople
    Photo: Hunt for the Wilderpeople / Madman Films
    4
    7 votes

    Hunt for the Wilderpeople

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Adventure, Drama, Coming-of-age
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Running Away: Showcasing an unexpected friendship between a rebellious orphan and his gruff foster father, Hunt for the Wilderpeople is a heartwarming tale of adventure and acceptance as they escape into the New Zealand wilderness while evading authorities. With its charming humor, endearing characters, and stunning landscapes, this delightful film serves as a powerful testament to the bonds forged through shared experiences in the face of adversity.

    Hunt for the Wilderpeople is a 2016 New Zealand adventure comedy-drama film written and directed by Taika Waititi, based on the book Wild Pork and Watercress by Barry Crump.
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  • It Happened One Night
    Photo: It Happened One Night
    5
    7 votes

    It Happened One Night

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Romance, Classic, Screwball Comedy
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Running Away: A timeless romantic comedy that transcends generations, It Happened One Night follows spoiled heiress Ellie Andrews as she elopes with her new husband against her father's wishes only to find herself falling for cynical reporter Peter Warne during their whirlwind escapades together. With undeniable chemistry between Claudette Colbert and Clark Gable, this classic film showcases both the excitement and unpredictability that often accompany impulsive decisions made in pursuit of independence.

    In Frank Capra's acclaimed romantic comedy, spoiled heiress Ellie Andrews (Claudette Colbert) impetuously marries the scheming King Westley, leading her tycoon father (Walter Connolly) to spirit her away on his yacht. After jumping ship, Ellie falls in with cynical newspaper reporter Peter Warne (Clark Gable), who offers to help her reunite with her new husband in exchange for an exclusive story. But during their travels, the reporter finds himself falling for the feisty young heiress.
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  • The Kings of Summer
    Photo: The Kings of Summer
    6
    17 votes

    The Kings of Summer

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Adventure, Drama, Coming-of-age Stories
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Running Away: A coming-of-age story imbued with humor and heartache, The Kings of Summer captures three teenage friends' quest for independence as they flee suburban life to build their own house deep within a forest. Through its poignant exploration of friendship, freedom, and self-reliance, this film offers a refreshing take on the concept of running away by intertwining elements of adventure and personal growth.

    Three teenagers (Nick Robinson, Gabriel Basso, Moises Arias) carry out a plan to leave their dysfunctional parents, build a house in the woods and live off the land.
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  • Bright Angel
    Photo: Bright Angel
    7
    12 votes

    Bright Angel

    For Fans Of: Crime, Drama, Thriller
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Running Away: Set against the backdrop of small-town America, this film showcases how two young drifters embark on a road trip to escape their mundane lives, ultimately finding themselves entangled in deception and crime. With powerful performances by Dermot Mulroney and Lili Taylor, Bright Angel highlights not only the romantic notion of hitting the open road but also addresses underlying issues that often contribute to such impulsive decisions.

    In Montana, naïve teenager George (Dermot Mulroney) longs to escape from his broken home before his dysfunctional parents (Sam Shepard, Valerie Perrine) push him over the edge. When George meets pretty drifter Lucy (Lili Taylor), she easily convinces him and his friend Claude (Benjamin Bratt) to join her on a road trip to Montana in hopes of breaking her brother out of jail. On the journey, the three encounter a slew of volatile and twisted people.
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  • The Lion King
    Photo: Buena Vista Pictures
    8
    12 votes

    The Lion King

    For Fans Of: Animation, Adventure, Musical, Drama, Family, Disney
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Running Away: This beloved animated classic features Simba, a young lion prince who flees his kingdom after being falsely accused of his father's death. As he embarks on a journey filled with adventure, self-discovery, and newfound friendships, The Lion King showcases the power of bravery and embracing one's true identity even when it means confronting past mistakes.

    In The Lion King, a young lion prince named Simba (voiced by Jonathan Taylor Thomas when young and Matthew Broderick as an adult) is destined to become king of the Pride Lands. His wicked uncle Scar (Jeremy Irons), however, has other plans. The film, an animated musical drama produced by Walt Disney Feature Animation, presents a tale of betrayal, exile and ultimately redemption. Aided by a meerkat Timon (Nathan Lane) and a warthog Pumbaa (Ernie Sabella), Simba reclaims his birthright. It won two Academy Awards in 1995 for Best Original Score and Best Original Song.
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  • Gold Diggers: The Secret of Bear Mountain
    Photo: Gold Diggers: The Secret of Bear Mountain / Universal Pictures
    9
    10 votes

    Gold Diggers: The Secret of Bear Mountain

    For Fans Of: Adventure, Family, Drama, Mystery
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Running Away: Delving into themes of escapism and self-discovery, this family-friendly adventure follows two young girls who form an unlikely friendship as they search for a legendary lost gold mine in the mountains. With its captivating scenery and spirited characters, Gold Diggers not only entertains but also highlights the importance of forging one's path rather than succumbing to societal expectations.

    Beth (Christina Ricci) is a city mouse who's just arrived in the country. When her family relocates to a leafy area in the state of Washington, Beth starts hanging out with outsider Jody (Anna Chlumsky), who is constantly regaling Beth with a local legend about a woman named Molly Morgan (Amy Kirk) that supposedly hid a treasure somewhere on nearby Bear Mountain. When the girls decide to tackle Bear Mountain together, Beth learns about the not-so-happy situation Jody is dealing with at home.
  • Big Girls Don't Cry... They Get Even
    Photo: Big Girls Don't Cry... They Get Even
    10
    5 votes

    Big Girls Don't Cry... They Get Even

    For Fans Of: Comedy, Drama, Family, Coming-of-age
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Running Away: By focusing on the complexities of blended family dynamics and the lengths one will go for self-preservation, Big Girls Don't Cry weaves a tale of teenage rebellion as protagonist Laura Chartoff sets out on an impromptu road trip after becoming overwhelmed by her chaotic household. As she embarks on her journey, the film illustrates both the emotional turmoil and growth that can stem from such daring escapes.

    Fed up with her dysfunctional family, Laura (Hillary Wolf) runs away from her stepsiblings, half-siblings, divorced parents and stepparents just before the family takes a trip to Hawaii, supposedly as a celebration for her forgotten birthday. Whether hiding out with Josh (Dan Futterman), the one stepbrother Laura likes, or hitchhiking with quirky strangers, Laura is determined to escape her family -- even as her family seeks to find her and their own equilibrium.
  • American Honey
    Photo: American Honey
    11
    5 votes

    American Honey

    For Fans Of: Drama, Adventure, Romance, Coming-of-age
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Running Away: This visually mesmerizing road trip odyssey delves into themes of youth rebellion and estrangement as teenager Star leaves her troubled home life behind to join a group of misfit traveling salespeople, embarking on a journey through America's heartland filled with hard partying, love, and crime. Anchored by breakout performances from Sasha Lane and Shia LaBeouf, American Honey offers an intimate look at the desperate search for meaning and connection within marginalized subcultures.

    Star (Sasha Lane), an adolescent girl from a troubled home, runs away with a traveling sales crew that drives across the American Midwest selling subscriptions door-to-door. Finding her feet in this gang of teenagers, one of whom is Jake (Shia LaBeouf), she soon gets into the group's lifestyle of hard-partying nights, law-bending days and young love.
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  • The 400 Blows
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    12
    5 votes

    The 400 Blows

    For Fans Of: Drama, Coming-of-age, French New Wave, Art House.
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Running Away: As one of cinema's most iconic coming-of-age stories, The 400 Blows delves into themes of loneliness and rebellion through its compelling character study of young Antoine Doinel who turns to criminal activity after feeling neglected by his family and school. With its raw, authentic portrayal of adolescent angst, François Truffaut's masterpiece captures the emotional turmoil that often drives individuals to seek solace outside their familiar surroundings.

    The 400 Blows is a 1959 French drama film, the debut by director François Truffaut; it stars Jean-Pierre Léaud, Albert Rémy, and Claire Maurier. One of the defining films of the French New Wave, it displays many of the characteristic traits of the movement. Written by Truffaut and Marcel Moussy, the film is about Antoine Doinel, a misunderstood adolescent in Paris who is thought by his parents and teachers to be a troublemaker. Filmed on location in Paris and Honfleur, it is the first in a series of five films in which Léaud plays the semi-autobiographical character. The 400 Blows received numerous awards and nominations, including the Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Director, the OCIC Award, and a Palme d'Or nomination in 1959. The film was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Writing in 1960. The 400 Blows had a total of 4,092,970 admissions in France, making it Truffaut's most successful film in his home country. It is widely considered one of the greatest films of all time; in their 2012 poll of all-time classics, Sight & Sound ranked the film 39th.
  • Born Innocent
    Photo: Born Innocent
    13
    13 votes

    Born Innocent

    For Fans Of: Drama, Crime, Social commentary
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Running Away: Presenting a stark portrait of juvenile delinquency within America's flawed foster care system, Born Innocent centers around Christine Parker as she runs away from home only to end up in various detention centers that offer little solace or guidance on her troubled path. Linda Blair delivers a powerful performance that shines light on the struggles faced by many marginalized adolescents within this often overlooked population.

    The victim of an abusive father and an indifferent mother, Chris Parker (Linda Blair) runs away from home repeatedly until her parents give up on her. After her latest attempt at escape, she becomes a ward of the court and is sent to live in a group home for girls. Life there, however, is not much more agreeable than it is at home. When Chris excels in her schoolwork, the other girls avenge themselves by raping her in the shower, and things only get worse from there.
  • Lean on Pete
    Photo: user uploaded image
    14
    3 votes

    Lean on Pete

    For Fans Of: Drama, Adventure, Coming-of-age, Animal Drama
    Reasons to Watch if You're Interested in Running Away: A deeply affecting story of survival, friendship, and redemption, Lean on Pete follows 15-year-old Charley as he forms a bond with an aging racehorse and embarks on a perilous cross-country odyssey after experiencing devastating personal loss. With its compelling narrative and breathtaking cinematography, this poignant drama offers an unflinching examination of youth, resilience, and perseverance in the face of adversity.

    Lean on Pete is a 2017 British drama film directed by Andrew Haigh, based on the novel by Willy Vlautin. A teenager (Charlie Plummer) gets a summer job working for a horse trainer and befriends the fading racehorse, Lean on Pete.