Owen Wilson leaves tough action work to Alan Ritchson in 'Runner'

Owen Wilson teamed up with Alan Ritchson in the action thriller "Runner," where Ritchson played a brooding ex-Navy Seal, Hank Malone, and Wilson portrayed a fast-talking medical courier, Ben Bishop. The film follows Malone and Bishop as they race against time to deliver a donated liver to an ailing Australian child. However, a fearsome criminal gang also seeks the liver, as the mother of one of their members shares the same rare blood type and requires a transplant.

Directed by Scott Waugh, the film is a combination of an odd couple, ticking-clock thriller, and road movie, with a heavy emphasis on action and comedy.

Upon signing on for the project, Wilson acknowledged the need for a clear division of labor on set. He recalled that after a few days of preparation, he recognized they would need to let Ritchson take the lead in the action sequences. Wilson expressed his satisfaction with the decision, stating it was the right choice.

The film's action sequences were carefully choreographed, with Ritchson playing a significant role in shaping them. Wilson described the process as similar to that of Jackie Chan, with Waugh incorporating Ritchson's input into the fight scenes. Wilson, being a movie enthusiast, found the choreography aspect of the film thrilling.

One of the film's standout sequences involved a high-octane car chase, with Malone driving an ambulance while Bishop sat in the back. This chase concluded with the vehicle hitting a hospital where the ailing child and her expectant mother awaited. Director Waugh sought to make the car chase a unique and visceral experience, aiming to transcend traditional racing sequences.

Wilson willingly played a supporting role in the ambulance chase, laying down during the action-packed sequence. He humorously inquired about the medical supplies he would have available, such as gurneys and sandbags, to ensure his comfort amidst the chaos.