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An Inspiring Prime Video Comedy-Drama

Watch Brittany Runs a Marathon on Prime Video

Plot Overview – From One Block to 26.2 Miles

The story centers on Brittany Forgler (Jillian Bell), a fun-loving, outgoing woman whose life looks carefree on the surface. But behind the jokes and parties, she struggles with underemployment, toxic relationships, and low self-esteem.

After a wake-up call about her health, Brittany realizes she needs to make a change. With little money and no gym membership, she starts small—running just one sweaty block. That tiny step sparks a much bigger journey: training for the New York City Marathon.

Along the way, Brittany confronts her fears, rebuilds her self-image, and discovers strength she never knew she had. The film portrays not just physical transformation but also emotional resilience, making it both hilarious and deeply moving.

Cast and Performances

The film’s charm rests heavily on its cast, who deliver genuine, layered performances:

Jillian Bell as Brittany Forgler – In her first leading dramatic role, Bell shines with humor and vulnerability. She makes Brittany both relatable and inspiring, portraying her flaws as authentically as her triumphs.
Michaela Watkins as Catherine – Playing Brittany’s seemingly perfect neighbor, Watkins adds nuance to what could have been a stereotypical role, showing that even those who appear to “have it all” carry struggles.
Utkarsh Ambudkar as Jern – A fellow underachiever who teams up with Brittany, Ambudkar provides both comic relief and emotional grounding.
Lil Rel Howery as Demetrius – Brittany’s friend, who serves as her anchor and support system.
Micah Stock as Seth – Another running partner whose journey intertwines with Brittany’s, highlighting themes of friendship and accountability.

Together, the ensemble creates an atmosphere of warmth, humor, and authenticity that elevates the film.

Watch Brittany Runs a Marathon on Prime Video

Director’s Vision – Paul Downs Colaizzo’s Debut

Paul Downs Colaizzo makes his feature film directorial debut with Brittany Runs a Marathon, bringing a personal touch to the story. Inspired by a real-life friend’s journey, Colaizzo wanted to depict not just the physical transformation of weight loss and fitness, but also the emotional growth that comes with facing insecurities.

His direction balances humor with raw honesty. He doesn’t shy away from showing Brittany’s struggles with body image, self-sabotage, and loneliness, making the eventual triumph feel earned rather than clichéd.

Themes – Why the Film Resonates

What makes Brittany Runs a Marathon stand out is its ability to explore multiple themes that resonate with modern audiences:

Self-Acceptance – The film reminds us that true transformation begins with self-love, not external validation.
Small Steps Matter – Brittany’s journey emphasizes progress over perfection. Running one block becomes a metaphor for tackling life’s larger challenges.
Friendship and Support – The people who join Brittany on her runs highlight the importance of community in achieving goals.
Overcoming Toxicity – From toxic relationships to negative self-talk, the film shows the importance of letting go of what holds us back.

These themes make the film much more than a comedy—it’s an inspiring life lesson wrapped in humor.

Watch Brittany Runs a Marathon on Prime Video

Cinematography and Style

Shot in New York City, the film uses its urban backdrop as both obstacle and inspiration. The bustling streets highlight Brittany’s struggles but also her perseverance. The cinematography captures:

The claustrophobia of small apartments and unhealthy routines.
The vibrancy of city life as Brittany starts running outdoors.
The grandeur of the marathon itself, turning the city into a stage for triumph.

The film’s grounded visuals enhance its authenticity, making viewers feel like they’re running right alongside Brittany.

Music and Tone

The soundtrack blends upbeat, motivational tracks with quieter, introspective moments. This mix mirrors Brittany’s journey—equal parts fun and struggle. The tone strikes a balance between comedy and drama, ensuring the film feels uplifting without being overly sentimental.

Watch Brittany Runs a Marathon on Prime Video

Reception – Audience and Critical Response

Upon its release, Brittany Runs a Marathon received widespread acclaim:

IMDb rating: 6.8 based on over 2,500 reviews.
Praised for its authentic portrayal of self-improvement without falling into clichés.
Jillian Bell received particular praise for her heartfelt performance.

The film also won the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival, reflecting its emotional connection with viewers.

Audiences often describe it as “funny, real, and unexpectedly inspiring.” While some critics noted pacing dips, most agree its humor and heart make it a standout among modern dramedies.

Streaming on Prime Video – How to Watch

You can stream Brittany Runs a Marathon now on Prime Video in multiple formats:

Watch with Prime – included in your membership.
UHD & HDR – enjoy stunning visuals and clarity.
X-Ray – access cast details, trivia, and behind-the-scenes info while watching.

The film is available with audio descriptions, dialogue boost options, and subtitles in over 25 languages, making it accessible to a global audience.

Watch Brittany Runs a Marathon on Prime Video

Behind the Scenes – Making the Marathon Real

One of the film’s highlights is its authentic portrayal of marathon training and racing. The crew filmed on location during the actual New York City Marathon, weaving real runners and crowds into the movie.

This decision grounds the film in reality, giving the final act a sense of scale and authenticity that CGI could never replicate. For anyone who has run a race—or dreamed of it—the climax resonates deeply.

Why You Should Watch Brittany Runs a Marathon

Here’s why the film is worth adding to your watchlist:

Inspiring story of transformation without falling into clichés.
Jillian Bell’s performance—funny, heartfelt, and career-defining.
A reminder that progress starts with small steps.
Perfect mix of humor and heart for both casual viewers and drama lovers.
Available now on Prime Video with global accessibility.

Final Thoughts – One of Amazon Studios’ Most Uplifting Films

Brittany Runs a Marathon is more than just a comedy about running—it’s a story about reclaiming your life, one step at a time. With a powerful lead performance from Jillian Bell, an honest script from Paul Downs Colaizzo, and a perfect blend of humor and heart, it’s a film that leaves viewers both laughing and inspired.

Now streaming on Prime Video, it’s the perfect pick for anyone who needs a reminder that change is possible, even when it feels out of reach. Like Brittany, all it takes is the courage to start with one block.

Watch Brittany Runs a Marathon on Prime Video

FAQ

What is Brittany Runs a Marathon about?
It follows Brittany Forgler, a woman who decides to change her life by training for the New York City Marathon after years of unhealthy habits.
Who stars in the movie?
Jillian Bell leads the cast, with Michaela Watkins, Utkarsh Ambudkar, Lil Rel Howery, and Micah Stock in supporting roles.
Who directed Brittany Runs a Marathon?
The film was directed by Paul Downs Colaizzo in his feature debut.
Is the film based on a true story?
It was inspired by a real-life friend of the director who transformed her life through running.
How long is the movie?
The runtime is 1 hour and 43 minutes.
What awards did it win?
It won the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival.
Is the movie available in UHD and HDR?
Yes, Prime Video streams it in UHD and HDR with X-Ray features.
What genre is Brittany Runs a Marathon?
It’s a mix of comedy and drama, often described as an inspiring dramedy.
Is it family-friendly?
It’s rated R for language, sexuality, and drug material—so it’s better suited for adult audiences.
Why should I watch it?
Because it’s an uplifting reminder that change is possible, delivered through humor, honesty, and an unforgettable lead performance.