The Running Man Reboot with Glen Powell and Edgar Wright: Everything You Need to Know

The Running Man is coming back, and it’s getting a fresh twist for a new generation. The original 1987 film starring Arnold Schwarzenegger became a cult classic. It was full of wild action, dark humor, and a scary look at a future driven by entertainment and control. Now, Glen Powell is taking over the lead role in a reboot directed by Edgar Wright. And fans have a lot to be excited about.

A New Take on a Classic

The new version of The Running Man will still follow the basic idea from the original film and the Stephen King novel it was based on. The story focuses on Ben Richards, a man forced to enter a deadly TV game show where he must run for his life. In the 1987 version, Richards competed to earn medicine for his sick child. The new film might explore deeper themes that feel even more real today, like the power of media, government control, and survival in a broken system.

Director Edgar Wright has already said that he prefers the original book to the first movie. He told the Happy Sad Confused podcast that “nobody’s done that book.” So this version will be closer to Stephen King’s original story, written under the name Richard Bachman.

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Glen Powell Leads the Charge

Glen Powell is having a big year. After impressing fans in Top Gun: Maverick and Anyone But You, he’s now leading The Running Man reboot. At CinemaCon, Powell shared how much work went into getting ready for the role. He even shared a tip that Tom Cruise gave him during Top Gun: “Film yourself running as soon as possible. You don’t look as cool as you think.” Powell says that doing his own stunts makes the action feel more real for viewers.

He made it clear, though, that he’s not trying to be the next Tom Cruise. Instead, he wants to bring something unique to this version of Ben Richards. He also said that the movie includes a lot of real stunts, and when you see him fall or get hit, it’s really happening. That should give the movie more intensity and realism.

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A Star-Studded Cast

The new cast is packed with big names. Alongside Glen Powell, Colman Domingo plays Bobby Thompson, the game show host. He brings more flair and energy to the role than the original. At CinemaCon, Domingo shouted to the crowd in character, “The thrill of the hunt! Can you feel it?! This is America goddamit and we don’t put up with no bullsh*t!”

Josh Brolin joins the film as Dan Killian, a network executive. Other cast members include Katy O’Brian, Lee Pace, William H. Macy, and Michael Cera. There are rumors that O’Brian’s character might be a fellow contestant who competes against Powell, but that hasn’t been confirmed.

Notable Absence

For fans hoping to see Sydney Sweeney in this reboot, it’s not happening. She was linked to the film in earlier rumors, but she will not appear in the final cast.

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When to Watch

The Running Man will hit theaters on November 7. It’s one of the most talked-about releases of the year, and expectations are high. With Wright’s unique style and Powell’s growing star power, this reboot could be one of the most exciting action films in years.

This version of The Running Man isn’t just a copy of the original. It’s a bold new take that wants to reflect today’s world. The movie will blend real action, sharp commentary, and intense drama. If you love high-stakes thrillers with smart direction, mark your calendar for November 7.