Catch Him If You Can: Glen Powell Brings the Heat in The Running Man (2025)

The Running Man is the new action-dystopian thriller directed by Edgar Wright, known for Shaun of the Dead and Last Night in Soho. It is actually the second adaptation of Stephen King's 1982 novel, following the 1987 film starring Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Neither of which I have seen or read. I entered the 2025 adaptation knowing little to nothing about the story, except that it stars one of America’s favorite leading men, Glen Powell, and features a kind of reality show.

Let me be the first to say how pleased I was to attend this movie premiere despite the below-freezing temperatures in Nashville. I don’t leave my house in those conditions for just anyone! And this film did not disappoint.

Set in a near-future dystopian society, the film follows Ben Richards (Powell) and opens with him and his very sick daughter at his former workplace. He’s asking for another chance to earn money so he can get her the treatment she needs. We learn that Wright’s insubordination has led to multiple firings, but each instance of disobedience has been essentially for good to help another human being.

After talking with his wife (Jayme Lawson), Ben decides to join the reality show circuit, auditioning for several shows in hopes of making quick money. His impressive performances and bad attitude catch the eye of network owner Dan Killian (Josh Brolin), who gets him to join The Running Man, a highly dangerous show that Ben told his wife he wouldn’t do. Tempted by the money, he signs a contract and prepares to survive 30 days without being caught by a group of hunters and goons. But not only that, the public can also report sightings.

And if he survives, he wins a billion dollars.

From this point on, it’s an adrenaline-filled and explosive adventure, full of questions about who you can genuinely trust. But, in this world, the media controls what the audience sees and hears, often using AI to change what Ben actually says on camera. This makes him appear to be the bad guy and someone to root against, despite his true motives.

Much like the 1987 movie, the social commentary on how we consume media is clear. It’s definitely no secret so that I won’t go into deeper details or themes—those are for you to discover on your own when you watch. Or not. That’s the beauty of cinema.

I didn’t realize until the opening credits how stacked this cast is: William H. Macy, Lee Pace, Michael Cera, and Katy O’Brian, to name a few.

My favorite supporting performances are from Josh Brolin and Colman Domingo. Brolin is outstanding in every film he appears in. He has an infectious charisma, a smile that draws you in, and a warmth that feels familiar, almost like a father figure. If he’s in a movie, I will watch it.

Domingo has quickly become one of my favorite actors. The way he presents himself and the energy he radiates off-screen is contagious. I can’t get enough of him! His voice is so rich and commands your attention. One thing I loved about The Running Man is how the action is almost narrated through Domingo’s character, since the TV is on in the background during the action scenes.

If you’ve ever been to a wrestling show, you know the action isn’t as exciting without the commentary, and that’s what it reminded me of.

But the star of the show is Powell, an incredibly talented actor with a wide range (and those biceps are not to be overlooked!). There are moments when he nearly reaches the level of John McClane (Bruce Willis) in Die Hard. He also being compared to Tom Cruise because he did all of his own stunts. Powell even had a two-and-a-half-hour phone chat with Cruise about safety and stunt practice.

I wasn't sure if I could accept Powell playing a character who is gritty and angry, but he pulls it off like only Powell can!

There are also several costume changes to hide his identity, similar to Powell’s other hit, Hit Man (2023), but less comedic.

That’s not to say there isn’t any comedy—there’s actually quite a bit. How can you have a Powell movie without some of his comedic charm? The theater was cackling at times, easing the tension during the hunt. Everything is perfectly timed, creating a fun theater experience.

And that’s another thing I liked about this movie: it’s not just watching a film, it’s an immersive experience.

Some scenes reminded me of a 3D/4D motion-simulation ride, with the way the camera is angled and the game show visuals, which make you feel like you’re right there in the middle of the action. It’s wild and exhilarating!

I enjoyed and admired the dystopian ‘80s-esque world that Wright created. Vivid neon signs and busy city streets with high-pressure steam emanating from the sewers add to the gritty atmosphere. It adds a layer of futuristic spark while also weaving a thread into the original 1987 film.

That, combined with the goons hunting Ben, really made the film stand out for me. These guys, also called “hunters,” are exactly how I imagine a goon for hire. They are almost comical, with bulging eyes and a look reminiscent of Rorschach from Watchmen. They’re menacing yet fun!

I really enjoyed many aspects of this movie, especially the synth-heavy soundtrack that builds excitement for what’s to come.

But where this movie falters is about halfway through when it loses its footing.

The story becomes somewhat muddled and seems unsure of where the ending is headed. There are questions answered and secrets revealed that help maintain the momentum, but the result is an ending that feels rushed. I preferred to see certain parts unfold more fully, while I wish other scenes were shortened.

And remember, I haven't read the book—several people have told me it gets pretty dark. I can imagine where that happens in the story, but in this Hollywood adaptation, whenever it dips into darkness, it quickly rises back up.

And most of the time, I’m okay with that. In this instance, I think it will appeal to a broader audience than if it went the dark route.

Overall, I rate The Running Man four out of five stars. Its wild visuals and stunt work are best enjoyed on the big screen. It's like The Hunger Games and Mission: Impossible had a baby. The film features a star-studded cast that truly gives it their all, providing an entertaining experience. While the second half isn’t as cohesive as the first, it still manages to hold your attention.

So, grab a big bucket of popcorn, immerse yourself in this dystopian world, and try not to fall behind!

In the meantime, I’ll be watching The Running Man (1987) for the first time and seeing how Arnold and Richard Dawson battle it out. I might even read the book if I'm feeling brave!

The Running Man is in theaters starting November 14th via Paramount Pictures.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KD18ddeFuyM