The Running Man is a 2025 dystopian action film directed by Edgar Wright, who co-wrote the screenplay with Michael Bacall. It is based on Stephen King's 1982 novel of the same name.
A media corporation called the Network has taken over the United States. Dan Killian (Josh Brolin) acts as the producer and ruler while host Bobby T (Colman Domingo) introduces the show. To help his family get out of poverty, Ben Richards (Glen Powell) auditions for shows and gets recruited by “The Running Man,” a show where you have to survive for thirty days while being hunted by Evan (Lee Pace), a masked man. The longer you survive, the more money you win. With two other contestants, he reluctantly enters the program, and after he beats the record for longest survivor, he becomes a symbol for the audience. This paints a target on his back that he cannot ignore.
I am going to be honest, the 1987 version starring Arnold Schwarzenegger was better. For one thing, it is the star. Arnold just has more gravitas as a lead, and there is no getting around that.
Also, it is very tonally inconsistent. The original had an eighties dystopian nightmare to it. This one could not decide if it was a comedy or a serious commentary on political issues. It is a shame because Edgar Wright is good at both. He usually has a handle on the genre he is working on, but this one felt uneven. I wonder if we will find out the studio tinkered with it during editing.
I do not blame the actors. Everyone did a decent job of endearing you to their character. I especially liked Emilia Jones portraying a hostage who gets taken towards the end of the film. Brolin was very menacing as the antagonist, and Powell was a decent lead for the plot.
With all that being said, the movie is kind of fun. I actually enjoyed its fast-paced action, quirky moments, and humor. It is perfect for a Friday night flick with a meaty dinner and a stiff drink. I was never bored and enjoyed how the world was put together. It was fun seeing the protagonist travel from one hot spot to the next with the Network always watching.
To my surprise, the film also had a message, whether intentional or accidental, that sharply criticizes the media. The Network is not some vague corporation. It is made clear that they are a press organization. They are the enemy, lying to the audience about what is happening during the show. I found that very interesting.
Bottom line, The Running Man pales in comparison to the film it is remaking. That being said, it is actually a fun action flick that you can enjoy whether for the action or for the surprising message.
PARENTAL CONCERNS: Strong foul language, Bloody violence, Substance abuse, Crude humor
FAVORITE QUOTE: Have a good night. Day? You know what? Have both.
Check out the trailer below:
What do you think? Let me know in the comments below. Tell me if there is a comic book, movie, anime, or novel you would like me to review.