The Indian Runner

Marking the directorial debut of actor Sean Penn, this mercurial 1991 drama is inspired by the Bruce Springsteen ballad “Highway Patrolman.” Shaken by a recent road pursuit that ended in the defensive killing of the armed driver, highway patrolman Joe Roberts (David Morse) attempts to find comfort and solace in the presence of his family, including his devoted wife Maria (Valeria Golino), his infant son, and his elderly parents (Charles Bronson, Sandy Dennis). The prodigal return of Joe's troubled brother Frank (Viggo Mortensen) from the frontlines of Vietnam seems to herald the start of a new day, but Frank quickly slides back into his old felonious habits and soon impregnates young flower child Dorothy (Patricia Arquette). Frank's losing battles with PTSD lead him to display increasingly erratic and misanthropic behavior, culminating in acts of bloodshed that will put Joe's love to the fullest test. Penn, who wrote the screenplay, often aims for profundity but falls flat half the time, and method actor Morse essentially comes across as a non-entity, although supporting players Mortensen and Golino shine during this otherwise listless tragedy. Extras include interviews with Penn, Morse, and Mortensen. Optional. (J. Cruz)