Mark Griffiths, born in the early 1960s, is a director and writer whose work embodies the playful spirit of 1980s exploitation cinema. He helmed the cult classic Hardbodies (1984), where he explores the sun-soaked world of beach culture and youthful hedonism. Griffiths also directed and wrote Running Hot (1984), showcasing his knack for blending comedy with erotic thrills. His sequel, Hardbodies 2 (1986), further cements his role in shaping the genre, making him a notable figure in the realm of cult cinema.
Running Hot
Convicted of murdering his father, 17-year-old Eric Stoltz is sentenced to death. While in prison, Stoltz begins a pen-pal correspondence with fortysomething prostitute Monica Carrico. A long distance romance results, culminating in Carrico helping Stoltz escape from death row. When he finally makes it to the outside, it turns out that Stoltz was innocent all along-and a fat lot of good this does him. Best to ignore the haphazard plot of Running Hot and concentrate on the performances and the action highlights.
