Glen Powell's The Running Man Gets A Trailer: Explosive First Look at Edgar Wright’s Sci-Fi Thriller

Glen Powell's The Running Man gets a trailer that’s igniting the internet with its heart-pounding action and dystopian thrills. Dropped by Paramount Pictures on July 1, 2025, the official trailer for Edgar Wright’s adaptation of Stephen King’s 1982 novel showcases Glen Powell as Ben Richards, a desperate father fighting to survive a deadly game show.

Packed with intense chase sequences, a star-studded cast, and Wright’s signature kinetic style, this sci-fi thriller promises to captivate audiences when it hits theaters on November 7, 2025. Here’s everything you need to know about the trailer and why it’s a must-watch.

What Is the Plot of The Running Man?

Set in a dystopian near-future America, The Running Man centers on Ben Richards (Glen Powell), a blacklisted worker desperate to save his sick daughter. He enters a brutal TV game show where “Runners” must survive 30 days while being hunted by professional assassins, with every move broadcast to a bloodthirsty audience.

Each day alive increases the cash prize, but survival is nearly impossible. The trailer reveals Richards’ defiance and resourcefulness, turning him into a fan favorite and a threat to the oppressive system. Unlike the 1987 Arnold Schwarzenegger film, this adaptation stays closer to Stephen King’s novel, emphasizing gritty realism and social commentary.

The story explores themes of media manipulation and societal decay, with the trailer hinting at Richards’ transformation into a symbol of resistance. A remix of Underdog by Sly and the Family Stone underscores the high-energy visuals, amplifying the stakes of his fight for survival.

Who Stars in The Running Man?

The cast is a major draw, led by Glen Powell, whose star power has soared with hits like Top Gun: Maverick and Twisters. He brings intensity and charisma to Ben Richards, dodging bullets and taunting his pursuers with lines like, “I’m still here, you shit eaters!”

Josh Brolin plays Dan Killian, the ruthless producer, while Colman Domingo shines as the flamboyant host Bobby Thompson. Michael Cera, in a surprising role as rebel Bradley Throckmorton, adds humor and heart, notably in a scene where he sprays water on an electrified floor to thwart hunters.

Other notable actors include Lee Pace as the mysterious hunter Evan McCone, Emilia Jones as civilian Amelia Williams, William H. Macy as a sympathetic ally, and Katy O’Brian and Daniel Ezra as fellow contestants.

Sean Hayes, David Zayas, and Jayme Lawson round out the ensemble, promising a dynamic mix of performances.

When Does The Running Man Hit Theaters?

The Running Man is slated for a theatrical release on November 7, 2025, moved up from November 21 to avoid clashing with Wicked: For Good and secure IMAX screens.

The film’s runtime and rating are yet to be confirmed, but the trailer’s violence and language suggest a likely R rating for mature audiences.

Filming took place in London, including a week at Wembley Stadium for a key action sequence, wrapping on March 28, 2025.

What Does the Trailer Reveal About The Running Man?

The trailer, released on July 1, 2025, is a two-minute adrenaline rush, showcasing Edgar Wright’s fast-paced direction. It opens with Richards’ dire situation—blacklisted and unable to afford his daughter’s medical care—before plunging into the chaos of the game show.

Key scenes include Richards dodging bullets in an apartment corridor, sliding into an elevator, and surviving a flaming sewer pit.

The trailer teases a nationwide manhunt, contrasting with the 1987 film’s confined arena, and highlights a masked hunter (Lee Pace) whose identity remains mysterious.

Fans on X have praised the trailer’s intensity, with @FenixNests calling it “pure controlled chaos” and predicting a box office hit.

@ErikDavis noted its “electrifying pace” and “super violent” action at CinemaCon 2025, where early footage debuted. However, some fans, like @ContextFall, expressed concerns about the lighter tone compared to the novel’s darker satire.How Does Edgar

Wright’s Vision Shape the Film?

Edgar Wright, known for Shaun of the Dead and Baby Driver, directs and co-wrote the screenplay with Michael Bacall, aiming for a faithful adaptation of King’s novel. Unlike the campy 1987 film, Wright’s version blends raw physicality, dark humor, and sharp social critique.

Produced by Simon Kinberg, Nira Park, and Wright, the film benefits from Domain Entertainment’s financing and Paramount’s distribution. Wright’s energetic style is evident in the trailer’s rapid cuts and immersive action, with Powell noting at CinemaCon, “I’ve never worked harder on a movie in my life.”

The trailer also reflects Wright’s knack for blending genres, combining sci-fi, action, and black comedy. Arnold Schwarzenegger, star of the original, has endorsed the remake, admitting the 1987 version “could have been better.”

Why Is The Running Man a Must-Watch?

The trailer positions The Running Man as a thrilling blend of high-stakes action and timely commentary on media and power. Powell’s rising star status, paired with Wright’s visionary direction, makes it a standout in Paramount’s 2025 slate.

The ensemble cast and faithful adaptation appeal to both King fans and new audiences. Posts on X highlight its potential to dominate the holiday box office, with @big_business_ noting the clever marketing, including a viral video with influencer Ashton Hall.

Highlights of The Running Man:

• Release Date: November 7, 2025, in theaters.

• Lead Star: Glen Powell as Ben Richards.

• Key Cast: Josh Brolin, Colman Domingo, Michael Cera, Lee Pace.

• Director: Edgar Wright, with screenplay co-written by Michael Bacall.

• Based On: Stephen King’s 1982 novel (as Richard Bachman).

• Filming Locations: London, including Wembley Stadium.

• Tone: Dystopian action with dark humor and social satire.

Some Closing Thoughts:

Glen Powell’s The Running Man trailer has set the stage for a pulse-pounding sci-fi thriller that redefines Stephen King’s classic novel. With Edgar Wright’s bold direction, a stellar cast, and a timely narrative, this film is poised to be a cinematic event on November 7, 2025.

The trailer’s explosive action and buzz on X signal a blockbuster in the making. Don’t miss your chance to see Glen Powell run for his life—mark your calendars and join the conversation online!