The first trailer for Edgar Wright’s adaptation of The Running Man has dropped, and it’s promising a new take on the classic Stephen King novel that stays true to the book while adding a fresh, fast-paced flair. Glen Powell stars as Ben Richards, a man who finds himself on the run in a dystopian world where a popular TV show, The Running Man, pits contestants against death for a huge cash prize.
Unlike Arnold Schwarzenegger’s iconic portrayal in the 1987 film, Powell’s Richards is motivated by a desperate need to help his sick daughter, which gives the story a more emotional edge.
The trailer shows Richards running across the country, his every move being monitored by the public. He’s forced into the game after being blacklisted from employment, a significant departure from the original film, where Richards was framed as a cop. The new version has a wider scope as Richards races across different environments, adding more action and intensity to the mix. In a particularly thrilling moment, Richards sprints out of an apartment and narrowly escapes a barrage of bullets, only to slide into an elevator to continue his escape.
Directed by Edgar Wright, known for his distinctive style in films like Shaun of the Dead and Baby Driver, this version promises plenty of action, with the director’s signature humor and fast pace. Wright has expressed a desire to stay true to King’s original story, and the trailer shows this with Josh Brolin as the show’s sinister executive producer, Killian. Colman Domingo also stars as the show’s host, Bobby Thompson. In a surprising twist, Michael Cera plays Elton Parrakis, a character who helps Richards in a way that surprises even those familiar with his previous roles.
The trailer teases a tense, electrifying sequence where Richards is helped by Cera’s character, who sprays water to short-circuit an electrified floor. The show’s villain is a mysterious masked figure named McCone, played by Lee Pace. The identity of McCone is still shrouded in mystery, and the trailer keeps us guessing as the character hunts Richards through every corner of the country.
What sets this version of The Running Man apart is its focus on action, survival, and intense stakes. Unlike the 1987 film, which was more confined and campy, this remake leans into its source material, combining high-energy chase sequences with a much darker tone. The movie is set for release on November 7, 2025, and with Edgar Wright at the helm, it promises to be a thrilling ride that stays true to its roots while offering a fresh perspective.
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