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about the film

“Billy Runs Boston?” is a film about a runner’s relationship with his sister and brother as he tries to qualify for Boston.
Tony Marra, a Toronto-based actor and runner, has ventured into the world of filmmaking with his debut feature film, “Billy Runs Boston?”. This thought-provoking film delves into various issues facing the running community, including cheating, bullying of cheaters, over-training while injured, the pervasive impact of social media, and the deeply sensitive topic of suicide. Amidst these themes, it also celebrates the profound rewards and sheer joy of running. Complex family dynamics play a pivotal role in weaving the narrative of the film, adding depth and emotion to the story.

Featured In

Canadian Running Magazine

Runners will see themselves in new film by Toronto filmmaker

“Billy Runs Boston?” is a humorous and heartfelt look at one runner’s obstacle-strewn path to the Big One…

What People are Saying

“The messages of the film around how there is a ‘privilege’ to running resonated a lot with me. I often hear the adage- you only need a pair of running shoes to take up running, and while that may be technically true, it doesn’t necessarily make for a possible, sustainable or enjoyable experience for many…I think your film highlighted that well”

“If you have any link to the running community, go see it. And it is a must for every runner striving for or has succeeded in a BQ.”

“Love this film. Dripping with humanity and poetry and compassion and quirk. This film speaks to human integrity, individual resilience and community transformation that transcends “Boston”.”

“What a beautiful evening and what a phenomenal film. There is a real sincerity in the way that it was all captured. The way it was filmed and the fact that it was shot on an iPhone spoke to the humility of Billy and the entire story. It was really beautiful and a total joy to come out and be a part of the evening”