For the first time in decades, we might finally have a good adaptation of Stephen King’s The Running Man.
The 1982 novel, which King originally published under the pseudonym of Richard Bachman, has remained a favorite among fans of the science fiction and dystopia genre. This remained the case even after the Arnold Schwarzenegger-led film “adaptation” of The Running Man was released in 1987, which took some massive liberties with translating the book onscreen.
Now, the new take on The Running Man from director Edgar Wright, and led by a cast of Hollywood fan-favorites like Glen Powell, Lee Pace, and Colman Domingo, is almost here. And based on the initial reactions posted to social media on Tuesday, it sounds like it is going to be a hoot.
Our own Rachel Leishman loved the adaptation, writing “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!!!”
Film Land Empire said that The Running Man “is glorious, a brilliantly old-school blockbuster: fast-paced, action-packed yet character-driven, with a chaotic energy reminiscent of SCOTT PILGRIM. Glenn Powell burns up the screen, angry, masculine, funny and with a proper film star charisma. Loved it!”
JoBlo said that Powell’s performance is one that “continues to prove what the actor is capable of.”
Collider’s Perri Nemiroff loved what Wright and company did with the film, praising Powell and more. She wrote that Powell was a perfect Ben Richards and expressed how exciting this year has been for adaptations of King’s work!
“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 that front, but he manages to do so while still making it feel like an Edgar Wright movie. He’s got a remarkably firm handle on the style and tone of the film, and that’s what allows it to be both bombastic high-energy fun, and also just grounded enough to ensure you care and take the story home with you after the credits roll.”
___________________________________
This is just the start for The Running Man, which hits theaters on November 14.
(featured image: Paramount Pictures)
Have a tip we should know? [email protected]
