Nearly four decades after Arnold Schwarzenegger's iconic sci-fi action film first hit screens, The Running Man has returned to UK cinemas with a fresh adaptation starring Glen Powell.
From Page to Screen: A New Dystopian Vision
This new interpretation of Stephen King's 1982 dystopian novel follows blue-collar worker Ben Richards, portrayed by Glen Powell, who volunteers for a lethal game show in a near-future world. Driven by the desperate need to save his seriously ill daughter, Richards must survive 30 days while being hunted by professional killers to win a life-changing cash prize.
As the nation becomes hooked on watching his potential downfall, Ben's determination transforms him into an unlikely hero and a growing threat to the show's brutal status quo. Edgar Wright directs this new version, which steps out of the shadow of the 1987 Schwarzenegger film to create its own distinct identity.
Behind the Scenes with the Cast and Crew
Writer Michael Bacall revealed to Global's showbiz correspondent Rachel Babbage that Powell brought relentless commitment to the physically demanding production. "The guy is an animal... he is an extremely dedicated and deeply talented guy. So it's a real joy showing up every day and watching both [Glen and Edgar] bring it to life," Bacall stated.
Choreographer Jennifer White praised Powell's precision, particularly in the film's opening sequence. "There's a lot of walking and it's all to music and it has to cut and all match up... But he's such a pro, I'm there just in case," she explained.
Creating a Timeless Aesthetic
Costume designer Julian Day drew inspiration from the original 1982 publication to develop a unique visual style that blends 80s influences with futuristic concepts. "From the costume point of view, I want people to watch this in 20 years' time or 30 years' time and never know when it was actually made," Day explained.
He continued: "I'm trying to do a bit of past-costume, future-costume and contemporary-costumes, so it's not set in any particular world." This approach creates a striking retro-future look that distinguishes this adaptation from its predecessor while honouring the source material.
The Running Man is now showing in cinemas across the United Kingdom, offering audiences a fresh take on Stephen King's chilling vision of a media-obsessed dystopian future.
