Glen Powell has officially gained Stephen King’s approval to star in the adaptation of “The Running Man.” This process began at the New York Comic Con (NYCC), where Powell discussed the lead role of Ben Richards in Edgar Wright’s upcoming film.
Stephen King’s Approval Process
During the NYCC event, Glen Powell shared how he secured the role. Edgar Wright, the film’s director, offered Powell the part but included a unique condition: Stephen King needed to approve him. Powell recalled, “Edgar offered me this movie, and I was like, ‘Yes.’ Then, later that night, [Edgar] says, ‘By the way, you have to be approved by Stephen King.’”
Powell had to wait overnight for King’s feedback after the author watched his recent film, “Hit Man.” Fortunately, King enjoyed the 2023 romantic crime comedy, which was directed by Richard Linklater, and gave Powell the green light for “The Running Man.”
A Synopsis of “The Running Man”
In “The Running Man,” Powell portrays Ben, a working-class man facing challenges. He competes on a perilous television show to provide for his sick daughter. Contestants, referred to as “Runners,” must evade professional assassins for 30 days while the nation watches their every move. Each day of survival increases the cash reward, adding to the film’s tension.
Faithful Adaptation with Modern Touches
Originally published in 1982, King’s novel was first adapted into a film in 1987, featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger. Wright mentioned at NYCC that his version is “more faithful to the book” while infusing modern elements. He explained, “Citizens can record and report you. They can take you out. There’s this sort of ever-present feeling of tension throughout the entire movie.”
Release Date and Production Details
“The Running Man” is set to hit theaters on November 14, under the banner of Paramount Pictures. With Glen Powell leading this contemporary adaptation, fans eagerly anticipate how the film will differ from its predecessor.
