At this point Tom Tykwer's film takes off into a series of intriguing alternate realities - in each the story plays out differently and has very contrasting outcomes. In each Lola must run through the streets of Berlin - colliding with others and seeing their lives flash forward as a result. The pace is frenetic, the tone witty and playful and the cinematography dynamic and involving. Animation, still photographs and montage all play a part in this high-energy urban adventure as well as a dazzling techno score, composed in part by director Tykwer often quoting the sustained chords of the classical composer Charles Ives.
As Lola Franke Potente is terrific in her first big role- she would go on to Hollywood and featured alongside Matt Damon in the Bourne films among others. Her athletic performance takes us on a lightning fast ride in which time, fate and destiny all compete with one another for the upper hand.
If you saw Victoria - the recent Berlin-set heist movie shot in a single take - you may see parallels with Run Lola Run - both use the German capital to great effect, both have resourceful women characters and both are compelling and surprising narratives - German cinema at its best and most entertaining.
Run Lola Run was nominated for many awards and won a host of them including the audience award at the Sundance festival.
August 31, 2016 by Lucas Jones.