Arnold Schwarzenegger has expressed strong admiration for the upcoming remake of The Running Man, calling the film “incredible.” Glen Powell, who stars in the new version, shared this reaction after showing Schwarzenegger the finished movie. The classic 1987 sci-fi thriller, originally based on Stephen King’s work, is being revisited with a fresh approach that has earned the approval of its original movie’s iconic lead.
Glen Powell Shares Schwarzenegger’s Enthusiasm
In an interview, Glen Powell revealed that Schwarzenegger was thrilled by the new adaptation, believing it faithfully captured Stephen King’s original vision. Powell recalled,
“He was so excited that the Stephen King book we put on screen – it’s really the first time Stephen’s vision has been properly adapted. He just kept saying, ‘It’s incredible.’”
Schwarzenegger’s excitement underscored the respect he holds for this project, reflecting an appreciation for how the remake honors its source material.
The Physical Challenges Behind the Scenes
Powell described the production as particularly demanding, both physically and mentally, calling it one of the toughest projects he has undertaken. Schwarzenegger, familiar with action-heavy roles, immediately recognized the toll these kinds of performances take on actors. Powell recalled Schwarzenegger’s words:
“He loved it – freaked out, was so excited. But the first thing he told me, he goes, ‘This was a very painful movie for you.’ He’s shot so many action movies, and he knows what it takes to throw yourself around.”
Recognizing the Difficulty of Practical Stunts
The Top Gun: Maverick star emphasized how the physical demands of executing practical stunts are often underestimated by audiences. Schwarzenegger acknowledged this challenge, pointing out how hard it is to nail the intense action. Powell said,
“He’s like, ‘One of the hardest action movies – those are just not easy things to get right.’”
This recognition highlights the dedication required to perform in physically taxing films like this remake.
What’s Next for The Running Man Remake
The new adaptation of The Running Man is expected to arrive in theaters on November 14, 2025. Schwarzenegger’s endorsement adds significant anticipation to the release, as fans await to see how the fresh take on this iconic sci-fi thriller will balance its action elements with the compelling vision of Stephen King. With strong performances and intense physical sequences, the film promises to make a lasting impression on audiences.
