Brittany Runs a Marathon is inspired by the true story of Brittany O'Neill. She is a life long friend of writer/director Paul Downs Colaizzo who changed her life by getting her into running. Colaizzo does a great job focusing on the frustrations faced by anyone who takes those first steps to a better life.
It's fair to say, that Calaizzo has dramatized the story of his friend to the max. However, the result is an inspiring heartwarming story. There is a bit of Brittany Forglar that everyone can relate too, but throw together all of her many flaws and she is a total train wreck waiting to happen.
Now, lots of people decide to make healthier changes by joining a gym and then never going. Or go out with the best intentions, purchasing all the latest running gear, that stays in the cupboard. It's hard to make the change and kick away those bad habits. So if you are finding it hard to inspire yourself, Brittany Runs a Marathon is just the film for you. This will have you dragging out that running gear and putting one foot in front of the other before you know it.
There are some genuinely funny moments throughout the film. This is the first film that I had ever seen the comedian Jillian Bell pick up the lead for. She has been seen in countless TV shows and movies like Rough Night and 22 Jump Street. But, she really stamps herself as a quality lead. Giving a brilliantly balanced and brutally convincing performance that touches the soul. The rest of the cast is great too. Utkarsh Ambudkar and Micah Stock bounce brilliantly of Jillian Bell. But a strong standout is Michaela Watkins (Casual), whose character is thoroughly unlikeable until we get the full back story.
The catch is, the film is very formulaic and packed full of cliches. But on the flip side, this is exactly what makes this film work. Calaizzo is relentless with his message, maintaining a great focus on the power of never giving up. All in all, Brittany Runs a Marathon is just a great feel-good romp with lots of laughs. It may be a tad predictable and could have been a little shorter. But if you are looking for a film that will motivate you to make some changes in your life Brittany Runs a Marathon should be your first choice.
