Early reviews of Stephen King The Running Man, directed by Edgar Wright, have started to surface more than a week before its November 14 theatrical release. The film stars Glen Powell as Ben Richards, who must survive a lethal game show where Hunters relentlessly pursue him, and initial reactions suggest the adaptation meets high expectations. Critics are commending the movie for bringing new energy and faithfulness to King’s 1982 novel.
Faithful Yet Fresh Take on Stephen King’s Classic
Collider’s Perri Nemiroff highlights that this version stays more true to the source material than the 1987 Schwarzenegger film, marking a strong finish to a year full of notable King adaptations. Rachel Leishman of The Mary Sue praises Edgar Wright’s direction, calling his interpretation “an instant classic” characterized by thrilling action and emotional depth. This fresh approach distinguishes the story in ways that resonate well with longtime fans and new audiences alike.
Strong Lead Performance Elevates the Film
Glen Powell’s portrayal of Ben Richards receives widespread acclaim for adding humanity and emotional weight, making the protagonist particularly compelling. Kathy Paz from WSVN 7News applauds Powell’s “powerhouse performance,” emphasizing that he brings a hero worth rooting for. Similarly, Andrew Korpan of ClutchPoints notes that Powell
“brings more humanity to Ben Richards,”
while director Wright successfully
“trimmed the weakest parts of the book and even took swings and improved upon it.”
Edgar Wright’s Direction Garners High Praise
Edgar Wright’s vision is seen as a significant improvement over the 1987 adaptation, with many agreeing that his style better captures the novel’s tone. Notably, Arnold Schwarzenegger himself expressed excitement about the new adaptation, telling Powell that it was “incredible” and that he “was so excited” to see this fresh take on the story. Wright’s ability to balance intense action with emotional storytelling is recognized as a major strength.
Balancing an Extensive Cast and Runtime
While the film’s nearly two-and-a-quarter-hour length is not unusual for modern blockbusters, some critics mention the presence of numerous characters as a potential challenge. JoBlo’s Jimmy O remarks that although the movie
“runs a bit too long with a few too many characters,”
it still manages to be “a crowd pleaser.” The ensemble cast includes notable names such as Josh Brolin, Colman Domingo, Lee Pace, Jayme Lawson, Michael Cera, William H. Macy, David Zayas, and Katy O’Brian, all contributing to the film’s layered narrative.
Anticipation Builds for The Running Man’s Release and Impact
The overall enthusiastic reviews suggest The Running Man could perform well at the box office and continue to elevate Stephen King adaptations’ reputation. The combination of Powell’s captivating lead, Wright’s skilled direction, and a well-crafted balance between action and emotional resonance signals a promising reception as audiences worldwide prepare for its debut. This film not only revitalizes a cult classic but may also set a new standard for future Stephen King-inspired projects.
What a year for Stephen King adaptations! The Life of Chuck, The Long Walk, It: Welcome to Derry, and now #TheRunningMan is also fantastic.
I enjoy the 87 film, but I was real eager to see a more faithful adaptation of the novel. Not only do Edgar Wright and co. deliver big on… pic.twitter.com/sDFWov9X8L
— Perri Nemiroff (@PNemiroff) November 5, 2025
THE RUNNING MAN was everything I wanted it to be and so much more. Action packed, emotional, and a star vehicle for Glen Powell. Edgar Wright really bottled magic with Stephen King's novel and this is going to be an instant classic! It just fucking rules, man!!! pic.twitter.com/r2UR3VXiSm
— Rachel Leishman (@RachelLeishman) November 5, 2025
Our man @JimmytotheO saw #TheRunningMan: Running Man features Glen Powell in a performance that only continues to prove what the actor is capable of.
Edgar Wright takes a slightly different approach taking on an action film that is vastly different from Arnold’s turn.
It…
— JoBlo.com (@joblocom) November 5, 2025
The Running Man is an action-packed thrill ride. Heart-pumping and adrenaline-inducing, from start to finish. A fun watch that’s also full of heart. Glen Powell delivers a powerhouse performance, and he gives us a guy worth rooting for. Edgar Wright knocked it out of the park! pic.twitter.com/8qAh9i1QUZ
— Kathy Paz ❤️🔥 (@kathypaz) November 6, 2025
I loved Stephen King's book, but Edgar Wright's THE RUNNING MAN floored me. He trimmed the weakest parts of the book and even took swings and improved upon it.
I love that Glen Powell brings more humanity to Ben Richards.
A total blast. See it in theaters.#RunningManMovie pic.twitter.com/oXuJltKnUZ
— andrew korpan (@andrewkorpan1) November 5, 2025
