The Running Man is a story about survival, spectacle, and the price of entertainment in a world where morality has taken a back seat to ratings. Set in a near-future society obsessed with televised violence, Ben Richards (Glen Powell) is a father out of options. His daughter desperately needs medication, but his renowned temper has depleted his employment options. To raise the necessary funds, Richards decides to try out as a gameshow contestant. His natural charisma and intensity land him on The Running Man. On this show, contestants must outrun and outfight professional killers for the amusement of a bloodthirsty public. As the line between performance and punishment blurs, Richards becomes both a symbol of rebellion and a pawn in a system built to destroy him.
What works in The Running Man is Glen Powell’s dynamic turn as an action lead and the film’s relentlessly thrilling chase sequences. Powell continues his rise as one of Hollywood’s most magnetic stars. He delivers charm, physicality, and just the right amount of self-awareness to carry the film’s explosive energy. The action is spectacularly choreographed, with director Edgar Wright’s (Hot Fuzz) trademark kinetic style on full display. Each chase is distinct. Wright blends creative camera work, pulse-pounding music, and impressive stunt coordination to keep the tension high. The first two-thirds of the film are particularly strong. It pulses with momentum and playful social commentary that nods to both the original Stephen King story (written as Richard Bachman) and the 1987 Arnold Schwarzenegger adaptation. Wright clearly has fun reimagining this dystopian world, giving it a neon-slicked vibrancy that feels tailor-made for modern audiences.
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Audiences who prefer their adrenaline kicks to be shorter may not enjoy The Running Man as much as others. At just over two hours, the film occasionally stretches its premise too far. Continually introducing new characters and subplots dilutes the central conflict. The result is a third act that, while ambitious, can feel a bit overstuffed. By the time the story reaches its conclusion, people may be caught between admiration for the spectacle and fatigue from its sheer intensity. As such, some viewers may ultimately end up sharing Richards’ exhaustion.
The Running Man is a solid, stylish action film elevated by Glen Powell’s star power and Edgar Wright’s flair for kinetic storytelling. It’s thrilling, clever, and undeniably entertaining, even if it overstays its welcome just a bit. While it may not redefine the genre, it delivers exactly what it promises: a smart, high-octane ride that keeps your pulse pounding.
Recommended if you enjoyed: Edge of Tomorrow, Hardcore Henry, and Baby Driver.
The Running Man is in theaters beginning on November 14th, 2025.
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