The first trailer for The Running Man has been revealed. Directed by critically acclaimed filmmaker Edgar Wright, the dystopian film is an adaptation of the Stephen King novel of the same name. There was a previous adaptation in 1987, featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger in the lead. Now, Glen Powell takes over the lead role, with a supporting cast including Josh Brolin and Colman Domingo.

Now, Paramount Pictures has revealed the trailer for The Running Man. The trailer opens by revealing protagonist Ben Richards and the tough life circumstances that he has been put in. Unemployed, he is struggling to support his family, including his child, who is in a medical crisis.

As a result, Ben decides to enter a ᴅᴇᴀᴅly game show compeтιтion тιтled The Running Man, wherein contestants have to survive for 30 days while hitmen from around the country hunt them down to kill them. As he enters the games, Powell is seen running for his life as he attempts to avoid death.

What This Means For The Running Man

It’s Already Looking Closer To King’s Novel

Throughout the tease for The Running Man, Wright has promised that his film will stay more faithful to the book than the 1987 version did. One way was to include more of the traveling aspects that were so central to the book. The trailer already shows those parts from all the car travel to the scene where Ben is on a plane.

The Running Man trailer does not spend time on the set of the game show, but still emphasizes the national audience. At one point, audience members are heard chanting, “hunt him down! Hunt him down!” This not only creates a sense of rhythm to the scenes, but also underlines the game show element.

The trailer also shows how Wright’s signature style will be employed in the King adaptation. The acclaimed director has made plenty of action films, but they always come with a sense of wit. This is filtered clearly through Ben, who has a spiteful atтιтude towards the game show audience.

Our Take On The Running Man Trailer

The Supporting Cast Looks Very Strong

While Powell is the main star here, The Running Man trailer also has some compelling supporting performances. Domingo, who plays the host, seems like a particular standout here. His character is ostentatious and sinister, a balance that the actor already strikes well.

Another highlight was Cera. He comes into play later on in the trailer, seemingly allying with Ben. The actor is entertaining, playing a character with a distinct and unique approach to these death games. Overall, the performances in The Running Man seem great at an initial glance.

The Running Man is set for release on November 7, 2025.

Source: Paramount Pictures