The Last Runway (2018): Paraguay’s Gritty Cartel Thriller

In a land ruled by cartels, one team fights for order

The Last Runway (Leal: Solo hay una forma de vivir) is a 2018 Paraguayan-Argentine action film directed by Rodrigo Salomón and Pietro Scappini. Based on real events, the film follows Colonel Fernández, who is appointed to lead Paraguay’s national anti-drug agency (SENAD). Tasked with dismantling a powerful drug cartel near the border, he assembles a small elite team to carry out a high-risk mission.

The story centers on a remote jungle runway used by traffickers to smuggle drugs. Colonel Fernández’s team must infiltrate the area, gather evidence, and bring down the cartel without igniting a regional war. It’s a race against time, with violence, betrayal, and survival constantly hanging in the balance.

What makes The Last Runway notable is its raw tone. Rather than flashy Hollywood action, it presents a grounded, almost documentary-style look at anti-cartel operations in South America. The visuals are gritty, with natural lighting and real locations that emphasize danger and realism. The action sequences—though modest in scale—feel tense and authentic.

Culturally, the film reflects Paraguayan society, military politics, and regional drug issues. While some local nuances might not fully resonate with international viewers, the film's straightforward story makes it accessible. The blend of action, suspense, and occasional dark humor gives it a unique flavor.

Critically, the film received mixed reviews. Some praised its realistic portrayal of drug enforcement and solid pacing, while others found the plot predictable and the characters underdeveloped. However, many agree that for a low-budget, regional film, The Last Runway delivers honest, entertaining action.

In the end, The Last Runway doesn’t try to reinvent the genre—it sticks to a classic good-versus-evil formula, executed with sincerity. It stands out for its setting, its realism, and for being one of Paraguay’s few contributions to the global action genre. If you’re looking for a tense, grounded cartel thriller with a South American edge, this film is worth a watch.