Horror icon Stephen King has expressed his strong approval of Edgar Wright’s upcoming film adaptation of his 1980s dystopian novel, The Running Man. King praised the movie as a thrilling blend of action and social commentary, calling it the “Die Hard for our time” and describing it as “a bipartisan thrill ride,” signaling high hopes for the film’s impact upon its release in theaters.
The Running Man’s Story and Edgar Wright’s Vision
Originally published in 1982 under King’s pseudonym Richard Bachman, The Running Man is set in a grim future version of the United States in 2025, marked by social unrest and economic hardship. The plot follows Ben Richards, a desperate man who agrees to participate in a brutal televised contest where he must evade hired killers in order to win a cash prize. Edgar Wright directs the new film, starring Glen Powell as Richards. Powell’s character is pushed into the lethal game by a ruthless producer, competing against assassins over 30 harrowing days while the show broadcasts globally, escalating violence in its pursuit of higher ratings.
Comparison to Previous Adaptation and Casting Highlights
This film marks a fresh reimagining of a story adapted before in 1987, when Arnold Schwarzenegger played Richards in a version that remains moderately popular with a 67% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Wright’s adaptation features a notable cast including Josh Brolin, Lee Pace, Colman Domingo, and Glen Powell, with changes to the book’s ending that have received Stephen King’s personal endorsement. Powell reportedly received last-minute approval from King before taking on the role, emphasizing the significance of the author’s support within the production.
Stephen King’s Current Success and Anticipation for The Running Man
Stephen King continues to enjoy success with film adaptations this year, following the critically acclaimed debut of The Long Walk, which earned high praise from both King and movie critics. Anticipation is also growing for the upcoming series IT: Welcome to Derry. Yet, The Running Man stands as the next major project, promising to deliver intense action and commentary reflective of today’s societal anxieties.
The Road Ahead for The Running Man
Set to premiere in theaters on November 7, The Running Man looks poised to capture audiences with its tense plot and high-stakes action, bringing a fresh perspective to King’s dystopian vision. The film confronts themes of survival, media spectacle, and desperation while offering sharp entertainment led by Edgar Wright’s dynamic direction. Fans and newcomers alike will be watching closely as the movie unfolds, setting the stage for what could be a defining thriller of 2025.
“By the way: I’ve seen it and it’s fantastic,”
Stephen King, Author
“https://t.co/wDID7MRClJNew trailer: RUNNING MAN.BTW: I’ve seen it and it’s fantastic. DIE HARD for our time.A bipartisan thrill ride.October 13, 2025”
Stephen King, Author
“I think you did a great job”
Stephen King, Author
https://t.co/wDID7MRClJ
New trailer: RUNNING MAN.
BTW: I've seen it and it's fantastic. DIE HARD for our time.
A bipartisan thrill ride.— Stephen King (@StephenKing) October 13, 2025
https://t.co/wDID7MRClJ
New trailer: RUNNING MAN.
BTW: I've seen it and it's fantastic. DIE HARD for our time.
A bipartisan thrill ride.— Stephen King (@StephenKing) October 13, 2025
