GDW Media
The first trailer for Edgar Wright’s upcoming adaptation of **The Running Man** dropped recently, serving a bold mix of nostalgia and new thrills. With Glen Powell in the lead and an Easter egg cameo from Arnold Schwarzenegger, fans are buzzing. Here’s a full breakdown of what it reveals and what to expect.
1. Trailer Overview & Release Info
- Trailer premiered at CinemaCon and online in early July 2025.
- Official release date confirmed **November 7, 2025**, in theaters worldwide.
- Early reactions come from YouTube, Reddit, and fan sites praising the tone shift.
2. Schwarzenegger Makes a Subtle Comeback
Edgar Wright pays homage to the 1987 classic by inserting Arnold Schwarzenegger’s portrait on a $100 bill during Ben Richards’ payoff moment. It’s a visual nod rather than a physical appearance, reflecting respect and continuity. According to SlashFilm, this was intentionally done as a tribute.
3. Glen Powell Takes the Lead
Glen Powell’s Ben Richards gets serious action moments from elevator drops to opening fire on hunters. ReactorMag notes the trailer focuses heavily on Powell’s intensity and endurance. Scenes show Richards running for his life under deadly surveillance, capturing the dystopian tone of the original novel.
EW highlights his costar, Josh Brolin, playing a ruthless TV show executive, alongside Colman Domingo as a flamboyant host.
4. Edgar Wright’s Faithful yet Fresh Take
Unlike the 1987 version, Wright’s film aims to align more closely with Stephen King’s novel. Arnold Schwarzenegger himself believes the original could have been more impactful and supports Wright’s version, saying the lack of budget and pacing hindered the first film’s potential.
5. Intense Action & Stunt Commitments
CinemaCon footage confirms the film is packed with explosive, physically demanding scenes. Wright praised Powell’s dedication and stunt work, including practical G-force simulations and airplane chaos.
6. Full Cast & Characters
- Glen Powell – Ben Richards, the desperate runner
- Josh Brolin – Dan Killian, TV show producer
- Colman Domingo – Bobby Thompson, show host
- Cameos: Michael Cera, Lee Pace, William H. Macy, Katy O’Brian, Jayme Lawson
7. Plot & Setting
The dystopian premise echoes King’s 1982 novel: contestants hunted in a televised death game. Wright’s film combines big-budget spectacle with emotional stakes Richards fights for his sick daughter, balancing drama and action.
8. How It Differs from the 1987 Film
| Aspect | 1987 Version | 2025 Version |
|---|---|---|
| Lead | Schwarzenegger action-hero | Powell more relatable working-class father |
| Tone | Campy, 80s action | Darker, suspenseful, high-stakes |
| Faithfulness | Loosely based on book | Closer to King’s novel |
| Budget & Effects | Limited by era | High-end VFX and stunts |
9. Social Media & Reddit Reactions
> “Looks fun… since it’s Edgar Wright it will be.”
> “It’s crazy how big of an impression he made with just a cameo nod.”
Fans are excited about the mix of tension, wit, and visuals. Reddit threads highlight anticipation for a more faithful adaptation.
10. Why This Matters in 2025
- Stephen King adaptations are trending (e.g., *The Long Walk*, *It*\); increased audience interest.
- Edgar Wright’s fanbase trusts his visual style and pacing.
- November release positions it well for holiday box office and awards watch.
FAQs
Is Arnold Schwarzenegger in the movie?
No, but his likeness on currency is a nod. He officially supported the project.
When is the release date?
November 7, 2025, worldwide release confirmed by multiple outlets.
How faithful is it to Stephen King’s novel?
Wright’s version follows the novel’s tone closer and introduces darker stakes.
Who is playing the lead?
Glen Powell takes over the central role as Ben Richards, supported by a strong ensemble.
What sets it apart?
High production values, stunt-driven action, and Wright’s signature editing style make it stand out.
Edgar Wright’s *The Running Man* trailer delivers excitement and homage in equal measure. By blending intense suspense, action-packed stunts, and emotional stakes, it sets itself apart from the 1987 version. With a November release, fans have plenty to anticipate most importantly, how this remake honors King’s vision while scaling up the production.
