Glenn Powell is rapidly ascending to Hollywood’s leading man status, and his latest role in the reimagining of “The Running Man” solidifies that claim. Even Arnold Schwarzenegger acknowledged the original 1987 film, with its iconic (and admittedly cheesy) elements, was ripe for a fresh take.
This isn’t a simple rehash. The 2025 version delves deeper into the source material – Stephen King’s 1982 novel – crafting a more nuanced and thrilling dystopian world. The story centers on Ben Richards, portrayed by Powell, a man driven to desperate measures by circumstance.
Ben, a man repeatedly wronged by the system, finds himself facing an impossible choice. To afford life-saving medication for his daughter, he enters “The Running Man,” a televised spectacle where contestants are hunted for thirty days with a billion-dollar prize at stake. Capture means certain death, broadcast live to a captivated audience.
Powell delivers a compelling performance, instantly drawing the audience to his character. While perhaps not the typical image of a struggling underdog, his charisma is undeniable. He embodies a relatable desperation, making viewers genuinely invested in his fight for survival.
The supporting cast shines as well. Colman Domingo is captivating as the show’s manipulative host, echoing the chilling presence of characters like Caesar in “The Hunger Games.” Josh Brolin adds layers of intrigue as the powerful figure behind the media empire fueling the deadly game.
Director Edgar Wright, known for his distinctive style in films like “Shaun of the Dead” and “Baby Driver,” brings his signature blend of action, humor, and meticulous detail to this larger-scale production. The film is a thrilling spectacle, packed with explosive set pieces and clever nods to genre classics.
Wright’s vision is evident in a standout sequence featuring Michael Cera, a brilliantly chaotic cameo that unfolds like a darkly comedic collision of “Home Alone” and “Straw Dogs.” It’s a testament to the director’s ability to seamlessly blend tones and deliver unexpected moments.
The core concept of “The Running Man,” originally conceived by Stephen King decades ago, feels eerily prescient today. It’s a sharp satire of media manipulation and authoritarian control, a story that resonates with contemporary anxieties about the blurring lines between reality and entertainment.
While the narrative occasionally stumbles in its third act, Powell’s magnetic performance carries the film through. And yes, there’s a scene that’s already generating buzz – one that may well define this film for many viewers. It’s a moment of vulnerability and desperation, and it’s undeniably memorable.
“The Running Man” isn’t just an action thriller; it’s a thought-provoking commentary on our current media landscape, delivered with Wright’s signature flair and anchored by a star-making performance from Glenn Powell. It’s a film that stays with you long after the credits roll.
