“The Running Man” is a 2025 action thriller film produced and directed by Edgar Wright, co-written by Wright and Michael Bacall. It is the second adaptation of the 1982 novel by Stephen King, following the 1987 film starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. The cast includes Glen Powell as the main character, along with William H. Macy, Daniel Ezra, Colman Domingo, and Josh Brolin, among others.
The original story and its first film, written by Stephen King and released in 1987, was a solid sci-fi film supposedly set around 2017. Having surpassed that time frame, many social issues and technological advancements have changed, but the core premise remains the same. In this dystopian world, the government controls the media and news outlets, determining what information the public receives while suppressing it, leading to an even greater divide where only the rich and the poor exist. The concept of a free press is nonexistent; the news is manipulated, blurring the line between entertainment and reality. In this environment, the people suffer.
Ben Richards, played by Glen Powell, struggles in a world where corporations control everything. While attempting to advocate for the common man, he loses jobs due to his worsening temper and anger. His wife works to support the family while he stays home to care for their sick baby, who has contracted the flu. The government offers game shows, which it broadcasts across its networks, with “The Running Man” being the most notorious. It promises the highest payout, but no one has ever won; all participants are killed in the competition. This is the only outlet Richards has to feel responsible for providing for his family, which causes him to confront the corruption and media manipulation surrounding him. The film raises legitimate science fiction questions about whether similar issues are occurring in today’s world.
When I first heard about this movie, I was eager to see it but expected it to be a weak adaptation of the original film starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. I was pleasantly surprised; while the 1987 version was good, this version is even better, thanks to its thought-provoking themes. The story and action start right from the beginning and continue until the film’s conclusion. If I had one critique, I would have appreciated more character development for both minor and significant characters. A runtime extended by about 30 minutes could have allowed for deeper exploration of these characters.
I particularly loved the social commentary in this movie, especially the references to Christianity. The film showcases homes with crucifixes, street preachers, and prophets holding signs warning of impending doom and the return of Jesus, who will send people to Hell. However, the government has thwarted any efforts made by Christians and the church to assist the people and provide hope. This should prompt those within faith communities to question their roles and responsibilities in the current world. Are we truly making a difference, not just for a few, but for society as a whole?
As the story unfolds, we witness people being deceived by a manipulative government. However, there’s a turning point where people begin to rally behind Richards, as his 30-day attempt to win the game and survive offers a glimmer of hope. There is a segment of society ready to resist being manipulated and exploited by those in power, who care little for the suffering of the people at the bottom. The deaths and struggles of the less fortunate are insignificant as long as they don’t benefit the wealthy and powerful. Though delivered in an entertaining manner, the film encourages the audience to reflect. Do we have any hope left, or have we allowed the government to exploit us under the guise of a utopian political system?
Overall, I loved this movie, despite my wish for longer character development among some supposedly minor characters who played crucial roles in the story. While this aspect was slightly disappointing, the film’s message and themes were effectively conveyed.
I anticipate that “The Running Man” will be one of the season’s hits, as its appeal as a sci-fi apocalyptic story will resonate with most viewers. With plenty of action, a well-constructed plot, and important societal questions, it delivers on multiple fronts.
I fully expect to watch “The Running Man” again, and perhaps even more than once. I appreciated its themes and confrontations, which is why I rate it a 9 out of 10. Though it falls a bit short of perfection, it’s very good and well worth seeing on the largest screen possible. When you watch it, remember to ask yourself: are you being manipulated?
