The Ultra Runner

TIFF Docs, Toronto International Film Festival 2026

Original language: English, Romanian, Italian, German

Subtitles: Romanian, English

Directed by: Mila Aung-Thwin

Country: Canada

Year of production: 2026

Length: 98 minutes

Genre: Documentary

After ten years behind the bars of a high-security prison, Tibi Ușeriu regains his freedom and starts running. The Ultra Runner follows him through the dark forests of Transylvania, the frozen Arctic desert and the unforgiving brutality of the Italian Alps. As he pushes the limits of ultramarathon running, his body breaks down and his past resurfaces: abuse, violence, a whole life built on self-destruction. Supported by his brother Alin and his partner Mihaela, Tibi keeps going no matter what, facing the elements, exhaustion and his memories. What begins as a form of escape becomes a dangerous battle between who he was and who he is trying to become.

Credits

Mila Aung-Thwin – Director

Mila Aung-Thwin, Mike MacMillan – Script

Casting

Tiberiu Ușeriu

Alin Uhlmann Ușeriu

Maria Mihaela Ștefănuț