Liputan6.com, Jakarta The highly anticipated dystopian action thriller, The Running Man (2025), has finally premiered in global theaters, captivating critics and audiences alike.
This second adaptation of Stephen King's novel is directed by Edgar Wright and stars Glen Powell as the lead, Ben Richards.
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Its premiere at the Odeon Luxe Leicester Square in London on November 5, 2025, marked the beginning of the film's journey to the big screen.
The film is a new interpretation of Stephen King's 1982 work, written under the pseudonym Richard Bachman.
Unlike the previous 1987 adaptation starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, this 2025 version promises greater fidelity to the source material.
Viewers are taken to a future United States run by corporations, where extreme entertainment serves as an escape from grim realities.
The story centers on Ben Richards, a desperate father struggling to find a cure for his ailing daughter.
He is forced to audition for the most dangerous game show on television, "The Running Man," where contestants must survive for 30 days from being chased by professional "Hunters" and civilians.
If successful, a $1 billion prize awaits, but their lives are at risk.
Production Details and Story of The Running Man (2025)
Following its London premiere, The Running Man (2025) was officially released in the UK on November 12, 2025, followed by a US release on November 14, 2025, via Paramount Pictures.
The film's release schedule underwent several changes, from an initial plan of November 21 to November 7, before finally settling on the current date to avoid competition with "Predator: Badlands."
With a running time of approximately 133 minutes and an R rating for violence, blood, and language, the film targets mature audiences seeking intense viewing.
Directed by Edgar Wright, known for his dynamic visual style, the film also involved Michael Bacall in writing the screenplay.
The two collaborated to present a new vision of Stephen King's novel "The Running Man."
The film's production budget reached $110 million.
Glen Powell leads the cast as Ben Richards, the central character who must fight for his survival.
It features a star-studded cast including Josh Brolin as Dan Killian, the show's ruthless producer, and Colman Domingo as Bobby "Bobby T" Thompson, the show's charismatic host.
Also appearing are William H. Macy, Lee Pace, Michael Cera, Emilia Jones, and Jayme Lawson.
Arnold Schwarzenegger, the star of the previous adaptation, even makes a cameo appearance as the face of the president on the $100 bill.
The film's plot depicts Ben Richards trapped in a life-or-death game, where he must escape from deadly hunters.
In the process, Ben Richards inadvertently becomes a symbol of rebellion for a society addicted to violent spectacles.
Critic Reaction and Glen Powell's Performance
Early reviews for The Running Man (2025) showed a mixed response from critics, often described as "mixed reviews."
However, one aspect that consistently garnered praise was Glen Powell's performance as Ben Richards.
Many critics hailed this role as a major career breakthrough, potentially launching him into the ranks of Hollywood blockbuster action stars.
Powell successfully conveyed emotional depth and vulnerability in his character, giving Ben Richards a more human dimension.
Although some critics felt his character sometimes lacked the "oomph" to fully showcase Powell's skills, overall, his performance was considered strong and convincing.
Edgar Wright's distinctive directing style, with its dynamic visuals and fast-paced action sequences, was also a highlight. The film featured fast-paced chase sequences and an appealing punk aesthetic.
However, some critics argued that Wright's signature touch wasn't always evident in every scene, and the film sometimes felt caught between the grim tone of King's novel and the campy satire of the 1987 adaptation.
The Running Man (2025) also attempted to offer incisive social commentary on corporate corruption, media manipulation, wealth inequality, and a dystopian society.
Faithful Adaptation and Social Impact
One of the strong points of this adaptation of The Running Man (2025) is its greater fidelity to Stephen King's source material compared to the 1987 version.
The film returns the action to a wider, outside world, rather than focusing solely on a confined arena like the first film.
In addition to Glen Powell, the supporting cast also received praise.
Josh Brolin and Colman Domingo were praised for their charismatic and ruthless performances as the producer and host, respectively.
William H. Macy also received praise for his portrayal of Molie Jernigan, adding to the strength of the film's ensemble cast.
Overall, IGN gave it a score of 7/10, calling the film "very well-structured" with captivating performances and intelligent details, although its social commentary is less prominent.
Several other critics found the film "enjoyable" and "engaging," but not quite as "disturbing" as it could have been, and the ending felt less climactic.
Some also argue that the film "limps into theaters too relevant to be any fun" because it reflects current reality too much without delivering enough surprises.
Despite mixed reviews, The Running Man (2025) is considered a solid effort in the dystopian action thriller genre.
The film successfully highlighted Glen Powell as a new action star to be reckoned with, while also reimagining Stephen King's classic story with a relevant modern twist.