Glen Powell’s career challenges have become increasingly apparent following the disappointing performances of his last two films. This past weekend, his latest release, How to Make a Killing, premiered with little fanfare and mixed reviews, failing to inspire strong commercial interest. Despite being an A24 remake of the acclaimed British comedy Kind Hearts and Coronets, the film struggled to attract audiences in theatres. This release arrived just three months after Powell’s prior film, Edgar Wright’s The Running Man, which was another remake that failed to achieve box office success despite being marketed as a faithful Stephen King adaptation and a potential step up for Powell as a leading man.
Box Office Shortcomings Undermine Expectations
The Running Man earned only $68.6 million against a hefty $110 million budget, marking it as one of 2025’s costly box office failures. The lackluster financial returns for both films have raised questions about whether Powell can fulfill the lofty ambitions his team has promoted. For years, Team Powell positioned him as the next Tom Cruise, a star who could bring back the old Hollywood era where a single actor’s name guaranteed a strong audience and significant ticket sales. Yet, despite Hollywood’s desire to revive the superstar system from previous decades, Powell has struggled to live up to that high expectation.
Powell’s On-Screen Persona and Public Image
Powell’s appeal lies in his effortless charm and relatable warmth, seen in performances such as in Everybody Wants Some!! and Top Gun: Maverick. His image as a “non-toxic bro” blends himbo qualities with self-awareness, making him likable and approachable. He is also candid about the realities of pursuing stardom, which resonates with today’s audiences who are more aware of fame’s challenges beyond pure talent or luck. This openness distinguishes him and aligns with societal shifts away from the myth of overnight success.
Choosing Mainstream Roles in a Risk-Averse Industry
Intent on becoming a mainstream, broadly appealing actor, Powell has avoided more eccentric roles favored by contemporaries like Sebastian Stan, Robert Pattinson, and Alexander Skarsgård. Though hints of an edgier side occasionally surface—such as his persona in Chad Powers—his current focus remains on maintaining his polished, action-hero image without the complications associated with a more unconventional path. Films like Twisters showcased his ability to be a charismatic lead in big-budget blockbusters, playing to the mass-market audience while supporting large-scale visual effects.
Challenges of Star Power Versus Franchise Popularity
Audiences continue to support franchise films heavily, yet the distinction between a movie that succeeds because of its brand and one that succeeds because of its star is critical. While actors like Chris Evans benefit from the Marvel brand, this does not guarantee success in projects centered solely on them. Powell is caught in this tension; although he has leveraged recognizable intellectual properties in his career, he also aspires to be the draw beyond corporate logos, with his name prominently displayed. The tepid reception to both The Running Man and How to Make a Killing raises the question of whether audiences are rejecting Powell specifically or his films more generally.
Future Prospects Amid Industry Cycles and Expectations
While some suggest fatigue with Powell’s omnipresence, such cycles are common among actors and rarely spell long-term decline. As a white male actor in his 30s who plays the industry’s game well, Powell’s career has a limited window before younger stars emerge. His role choices thus far appear strategic, but audience tastes remain unpredictable. Industry insiders might encourage Powell to explore more diverse and unusual roles that balance his action-hero image with deeper character work, which could provide greater career longevity and critical respect.
Potential Paths Toward Reinvention and Longevity
Experts suggest Powell consider investing in smaller budget films with cultural relevance, such as indie hangout movies or even darker genres like horror, to reveal untapped dimensions of his talent. This approach contrasts with his current trajectory as a glossy, mainstream star and could prevent his being typecast or dated as trends shift. Embracing a more complex or “weird” side may secure a more durable place in the industry, avoiding the potential pitfalls of being seen as a purely commercial figure.
Upcoming Projects and Career Direction
Powell’s next film marks a collaboration with J.J. Abrams, known for high-profile, blockbuster productions. This project aligns with Powell’s desired path toward big-budget visibility but carries the usual uncertainties of such ventures. The actor’s ambitions reflect a broader Hollywood dynamic, where the strategies behind career moves often intrigue as much as the projects themselves. Fans and critics alike watch to see if Powell will maintain a steady course or experiment beyond his established persona, potentially avoiding becoming a star defined solely by commercial appeal, like Ryan Reynolds or Dwayne Johnson.
“Come on, Glen, don’t be afraid to get stupid.” ?Kayleigh Donaldson, Author
