Edgar Wright's The Running Man Footage Returns to King’s Roots

Edgar Wright is set to revive the classic dystopian action movie The Running Man, with the first footage unveiled during CinemaCon. Starring Glen Powell, Josh Brolin, and Colman Domingo, this new adaptation of Stephen King's novel aims to closely align with the book rather than the famous 1987 film. Wright emphasizes that his version brings back omitted details, particularly making Powell's character, Ben Richards, an ordinary man driven to the lethal game show by financial hardship. The new format features distinct roles for the show's host and producer, with Josh Brolin playing the executive producer and Colman Domingo as the charismatic host. Dynamic action sequences and dark humor are highlighted throughout, showcasing a nationwide chase rather than being confined to a single location. The Running Man is scheduled for release on November 7, 2025.

The new The Running Man differs from the original in character backgrounds, with Ben Richards portrayed as an everyman seeking financial relief, diverging from the framed cop depiction. Notably, it separates the roles of host and producer, showcasing distinct but interconnected characters, and expands the game's scope across the country, enhancing the chase dynamic.

The Running Man, originally a novel by Stephen King under the Richard Bachman pseudonym, presents a dystopian game show environment where contestants must evade trained killers to win a cash prize. The 1987 film became iconic for its mix of action and satire, exploring themes of media manipulation and societal decay. Edgar Wright's upcoming adaptation promises to delve deeper into the source material, appealing to both fans of the original and newcomers alike.