Edgar Wright directs The Running Man, a fresh take on Stephen King’s 1982 dystopian thriller novel. The movie stars Glen Powell as Ben Richards, a desperate man who joins a deadly game show to save his sick daughter. The film is set to release on November 7, 2025, and promises a more faithful adaptation than the 1987 Arnold Schwarzenegger version.
A More Faithful Adaptation of Stephen King’s Novel
The new The Running Man stays closer to King’s original story, unlike the 1987 movie which took many creative liberties. The book follows Ben Richards, a struggling father forced to participate in a brutal reality show where contestants are hunted for sport. The last man standing wins $1 billion, but survival is nearly impossible.
Director Edgar Wright has been passionate about this project for years. He wanted to bring King’s darker, more intense vision to life. The 1987 film was more action-comedy, while this version leans into the book’s grim social commentary.
Glen Powell Leads a Stellar Cast
Glen Powell plays Ben Richards, a role that could redefine his career. Known for Top Gun: Maverick and Hit Man, Powell brings both charm and intensity to the character. He even got Arnold Schwarzenegger’s blessing for the remake.
The supporting cast includes:
- Josh Brolin as Dan Killian, the ruthless game show producer.
- Colman Domingo as Bobby Thompson, the show’s charismatic host.
- Lee Pace as Evan McCone, the lead hunter chasing Richards.
- Michael Cera as Elton Parrakis, a rebel helping Richards.
- Emilia Jones as Amelia Williams, a hostage caught in the chaos.
Why This Film Feels More Relevant Than Ever
The story of The Running Man predicted reality TV’s dark side long before shows like Squid Game. The novel explores how far people will go for money and fame, a theme that resonates today. The movie also tackles media manipulation, fake news, and class inequality—issues that feel even more pressing now.
Edgar Wright’s fast-paced directing style, seen in Baby Driver and Shaun of the Dead, fits perfectly with the book’s relentless action. The trailer shows intense chase scenes, clever escapes, and a society obsessed with violent entertainment.
How It Differs From the 1987 Movie
The original film turned King’s story into a campy action flick with Schwarzenegger fighting gladiator-style killers. The new version brings back the book’s serious tone. Instead of a confined arena, Richards runs across the country, evading hunters and a bloodthirsty public.
Wright’s film also keeps the book’s tragic ending, where Richards makes a final, desperate stand against the system. This darker approach aligns with King’s original vision of a broken world where survival comes at a brutal cost.
Early Reactions and Release Plans
The first trailer dropped on July 1, 2025, featuring a remix of Sly and the Family Stone’s Underdog. Early footage shown at CinemaCon received strong reactions, with critics praising Powell’s performance and Wright’s direction.
The movie will release in IMAX, 4DX, and Dolby Cinema, offering a premium viewing experience. Originally set for November 21, the date was moved up to avoid competition with Wicked: For Good.
Also read: The Institute Season 1: A Stephen King Adaptation With a Dark Mystery About Kids With Powers
Fans of Stephen King’s work have high hopes for this adaptation. With its gripping story, talented cast, and timely themes, The Running Man could be one of the biggest films of 2025.
