Directed by Menard, Run Terry Run takes the viewer back to the summer of 1980 when a 21-year-old Terry Fox decides to run across Canada in order to raise money for cancer research. Having lost his own leg to cancer, Fox’s passion for doing his part to raise awareness and support unified the nation the nation, ultimately becoming known as the Marathon of Hope.
Quite simply, one cannot help but get emotional watching Run Terry Run. At all times, Menard keeps his film laser-focused on Terry and his run. Although the film’s voiceover provides the necessary narration, it never distracts from Fox’s achievements. In doing so, he allows Fox’s actions to speak most loudly, trusting that the audience will feel as entranced as they were back in the 80s.
Menard simply allows the route itself to unfold before us. With the exception of a couple of minutes of childhood footage, the film begins quickly at the edge of the water in Newfoundland and simply follows the story of a young man who’s going for a run. Yes, the film’s story is told through narration but those moments are from people who were there themselves. It’s not conjecture or hearsay. The voiceovers are personal, from people who knew and cared about Fox.
And that’s the beauty of Terry. Menard’s doc simply allows us to be in awe of the courage of one young man to raise awareness (and funds) for cancer research. Each literal step on the journey feels significant. With every movement forward, we’re struck by Fox’s determination to share his own form of gospel. With a focus on finding a cure, he remains committed to the belief that things can be different for himself and others. To him, that’s good news, even though he knows what it means to truly struggle.
Run Terry Run is available in theatres on Friday, October 9th, 2026.
