The Running Man 2025: Remake Review

The Running Man 2025: A Modern Dystopian Thriller

2025 brings a fresh take on the cult classic The Running Man, directed by Edgar Wright (Shaun of the Dead, Baby Driver) and starring Glen Powell as the new Ben Richards. This adaptation of Stephen King's (as Richard Bachman) novel arrives amidst renewed interest in dystopian narratives, but how does it stack up against the beloved 1987 Arnold Schwarzenegger original? Let's dive into the action, the critiques, and the verdict.

The Plot: A Desperate Gamble

The film, set in a dystopian future America where television is state-controlled, centers on Ben Richards (Glen Powell). A down-on-his-luck man needing medicine for his sick daughter, Richards volunteers to compete on the lethal game show The Running Man. Contestants must survive for 30 days while being hunted by elite assassins and manipulated by the network. Survivors win a billion dollars—a prize no one has ever claimed. The 2025 version stays closer to Stephen King's novel than the 1987 film, focusing on Richards' familial desperation as the core motivation.

Comparing to the 1987 Classic

For many Gen X viewers, the 1987 The Running Man, directed by Paul Michael Glaser and co-written by Steve de Souza (Die Hard), is a cherished '80s staple. Critics like SFGATE's Drew Magary argue the original's strength lay in significantly altering King's source material. De Souza's script ditched the sick kid plot, making Richards a defiant helicopter pilot framed for mass murder. It condensed the hunt to three hours within a confined "game zone," gave hunters distinct WWE-like personas (e.g., "Subzero," "Dynamo"), and combined the host and network villain into the iconic Damon Killian, memorably played by Richard Dawson. The result was a lean, energetic, and satirical action film.

"The 1987 version understands television much better than this new one does, especially when it comes to the villains." – Drew Magary, SFGATE

The 2025 remake, however, reverts to King's 30-day, globe-spanning contest. While this ambition is praised, critics feel it sacrifices the original's tight pacing and satirical edge. The hunters lack the memorable, flamboyant personas of the 1987 version, making the televised spectacle feel less "telegenic" and engaging. Magary also notes the 133-minute runtime feels excessive compared to the original's brisk 101 minutes.

Glen Powell's Performance: Charm vs. Original's Swagger

Glen Powell, fresh off hits like Top Gun: Maverick, carries the film with his signature charisma. Critics agree he's effortlessly cool and brings a relatable charm to Richards. His word association scene with the network psychologist highlights his sharp wit. However, Magary argues that Powell's performance works best when improvising and riffing, whereas the character as written—driven solely by his daughter's illness—feels less compelling than Schwarzenegger's morally defiant pilot. It's less about Richards' inherent defiance and more about his desperation, a change that alters the character's core appeal.

Cast and Direction: Wright's Vision

Director Edgar Wright brings his signature kinetic style and visual flair to the dystopian setting. The all-star cast includes Lee Pace as a menacing hunter, Colman Domingo as host Bobby T, and William H. Macy and Michael Cera in supporting roles. The production design effectively captures a bleak, hyper-surveilled future, but some feel Wright's faithfulness to King's novel makes the film feel more like a straightforward adaptation than a reimagining. The satire on reality TV and media manipulation feels less sharp in 2025 compared to the original's prescient take.

The Verdict: A Flawed but Watchable Adaptation

So, is Edgar Wright's The Running Man worth watching? For fans of Glen Powell and dystopian thrillers, it offers entertaining action and a strong central performance. It's a visually polished production with moments of genuine excitement. However, it struggles to surpass the 1987 original's unique blend of satire, character, and relentless pacing. As Magary puts it, the 1987 version remains a "low-fidelity masterpiece," while the 2025 remake feels like a "boilerplate 21st-century retread." Ultimately, it's a solid adaptation that honors King's source material but lacks the anarchic spirit that made the Schwarzenegger version a timeless cult favorite.

What's Next for The Running Man?

With this remake, the Running Man IP is back in the spotlight. Whether it spawns sequels or inspires new takes on the dystopian game show concept, it highlights the enduring appeal of survivalist entertainment. Only time will tell if this 2025 iteration achieves the same legendary status as its predecessor.