A new cinematic release is captivating audiences and dominating box office charts, with Glen Powell's latest film, The Running Man, being hailed as an unmissable action spectacle.
A Dystopian Hit with Critics and Fans
Released in 2025, this dystopian thriller features a star-studded cast and has been met with a wave of positive reviews. Set in a near-future society, the plot follows Ben Richards, portrayed by Glen Powell, a desperate father who enters a lethal television game show to save his ill daughter.
On the review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, one enthusiastic viewer declared, "This is an absolute must see. I did not have a lot of expectations going into this but it was thrilling. One of the best movies I’ve seen in a long time." Another fan echoed this sentiment, writing, "This was extremely entertaining! Would absolutely recommend watching you won’t regret it!" A third comment highlighted the film's nostalgic appeal for those familiar with earlier versions.
Rooted in Stephen King Lore
For those wondering about the film's origins, The Running Man is indeed based on the 1982 novel of the same name by Stephen King, which was originally published under his pseudonym, Richard Bachman.
This is not the first time the story has been adapted for the screen. A previous film version was released in 1987, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. The new 2025 adaptation is directed by Edgar Wright, and it is reported that his interpretation hews more closely to the original novel than the 1980s iteration, a decision that has been well-received by fans of the book.
What is The Running Man About?
The official synopsis sets the scene: "In a near-future society, The Running Man is the top-rated show on television - a deadly competition where contestants, known as Runners, must survive 30 days while being hunted by professional assassins, with every move broadcast to a bloodthirsty public and each day bringing a greater cash reward."
Desperate to secure funds for his daughter's treatment, working-class hero Ben Richards is convinced by the show's ruthless producer, Dan Killian (played by Josh Brolin), to become a contestant. However, Ben's defiance and grit make him an unexpected fan favourite and a genuine threat to the corrupt system that created the game. As the show's ratings soar, so does the danger, forcing Ben to outwit both the hunters and a nation obsessed with his potential downfall.
The Running Man is now showing in cinemas across the UK.
