The Running Man: From Box Office Flop to Streaming Success

Hollywood loves a fine Stephen King book. With over 90 feature-length movies based on his works, and several books receiving multiple adaptations, The Running Man is one such story. Originally written under King’s pseudonym Richard Bachman, The Running Man is a dystopian adventure centered around a desperate man entering a deadly game show for a chance at financial salvation. The story has seen two movie adaptations: the 1987 film starring Arnold Schwarzenegger and the 2025 version with Glen Powell, with the latter finding a second life on streaming platforms.

What is The Running Man About?

In a dystopian future United States, a media corporation known as The Network controls the country. The most popular program is The Running Man, a reality TV competition reminiscent of The Most Dangerous Game. Contestants, known as “runners,” attempt to survive for 30 days while being hunted by “hunters”—paid assassins employed by The Network. Runners earn money for each day they survive, with a grand prize of $1 billion.

The 2025 adaptation stars Glen Powell as Ben Richards, a struggling citizen facing mounting medical bills for his daughter. Desperate for cash, Ben auditions for The Running Man against his wife’s wishes and is selected by the vindictive producer Dan Killian (Josh Brolin).

After surviving the first day, Ben quickly realizes The Network intends to execute him on live television. However, Ben’s ingenuity, resilience, and persistent complaints during mandatory confessionals prove to be unexpected challenges for Killian.

The Running Man’s Strengths Do Not Outweigh Its Weaknesses

The 1987 The Running Man was tailored to amplify Arnold Schwarzenegger’s strengths—his physicality, star power, and comedic timing. It’s an ‘80s action movie first and a King adaptation second, featuring action sequences and one-liners like “Killian, here is Subzero! Now, plain zero!” Despite being a staple of the action genre, Schwarzenegger’s The Running Man underperformed at the box office, grossing $38 million, a trend that would continue for this IP.

Edgar Wright directed and co-wrote the 2025 The Running Man. Known for his frenetic pacing, zany dialogue, and blend of comedy with action—evident in films like Scott Pilgrim vs. The World and Baby Driver—Wright brought his distinctive style to the adaptation. A standout moment features Glen Powell interacting with Elton Parrakis, played by Michael Cera. The “Home Alone” sequence, with Powell and Cera fending off hunters, effectively combines humor and prompt-paced action.

However, Wright’s style doesn’t fully align with the premise of The Running Man. The original novel is a dark exploration of capitalism, authoritarianism, class inequality, and media manipulation. While the 2025 adaptation is closer to the book than the 1987 film, it fails to capture the novel’s tone. The third act and ending, in particular, feel underwhelming, as Wright opted for a more optimistic conclusion than the bleakness of the source material. Had it been an original action comedy, it might have been better received.

Casting choices are also under scrutiny following the film’s initial box office performance. While Powell shines in charming roles—as seen in Hit Man, Anyone But You, and Top Gun: Maverick—he lacks the anti-authority energy required to portray Ben Richards, an angry and aggressive character.

The film faced challenging box office competition, with releases like Predator: Badlands, Wicked: For Good, and Zootopia 2 drawing audiences away.

Streaming Success Could Lead to a Reexamination of The Running Man

Movies often undergo critical reevaluation years after their release. Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining, initially met with criticism, is now considered a masterpiece. Similarly, Paramount’s Babylon has garnered a dedicated following despite its initial financial struggles.

It’s too early to tell if The Running Man will receive the same critical reexamination. However, the film boasts an intriguing premise, a likable star, and a talented director. The Boston hotel sequence and the scenes with Michael Cera are particularly entertaining. Paramount+ subscribers have responded positively, as evidenced by its consistent ranking among the service’s top movies. Schwarzenegger’s version has achieved cult status, and Powell’s adaptation may follow suit over time.

If you’re searching for more Paramount+ content, check out shows like Tulsa King and Star Trek: Starfleet Academy. Plus, fans of Taylor Sheridan can stream his hit shows including Mayor of Kingstown and 1923.