The Running Man remake receives a fresh tease from actor Colman Domingo, who highlights director Edgar Wright‘s unique vision for the film. This adaptation marks the second interpretation of Stephen King‘s 1982 novel of the same name, following the 1987 adaptation featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger. In Wright’s version, Glen Powell takes on the lead role of Ben Richards, a man wrongfully convicted who must navigate a deadly television game show for survival.
Domingo confirmed his participation in the project back in January and is set to portray the show’s charismatic host. In a recent interview with Josh Horowitz on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Domingo provided a glimpse into what audiences can expect from Edgar Wright’s The Running Man remake. While he was careful to keep some details under wraps, he spoke highly of the film’s talented cast and hinted that his filming for the project has wrapped up. However, it remains unclear if filming for the entire movie has concluded.
“Dude, in Edgar’s hands, my God. I had such a good time. I was like shot out of a cannon—I had a blast! Especially with Glen Powell, and Josh Brolin, and Lee Pace, they’re all great dudes, we had a great time,” Domingo shared. He continued by praising Wright’s creativity, stating, “The film itself is like sort of this dystopian, chaotic world where murder is the game show. It feels…[chuckles] it feels timely. [laughs] You know? It feels like it has such a pulse. I’m excited for people to see it.” This enthusiasm from Domingo underscores the excitement surrounding the film.
Filming for The Running Man remake began in November 2024, showcasing Wright’s distinct directorial flair. Known for movies such as Shaun of the Dead (2004), Hot Fuzz (2007), The World’s End (2013), and Baby Driver (2017), Edgar Wright is recognized for his brisk pace and unique editing style, often laced with elements of dark comedy. Domingo’s remarks indicate that Wright’s signature approach will be evident in this adaptation, implying that it could diverge significantly from Paul Michael Glaser’s version from 1987.
Furthermore, Wright’s adaptation promises to be a refreshing take compared to Schwarzenegger’s portrayal. As evidenced by Domingo’s remarks, this rendition could indeed surpass Glaser’s effort. The 1987 film currently holds a 66% critic score and a 61% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, suggesting there is considerable room for improvement. In contrast, every film directed by Wright from 2004 to Last Night in Soho in 2021 has received much higher ratings, with Shaun of the Dead standing out at 92% and 93% among critics and audiences, respectively. Last Night in Soho also achieved critical acclaim, earning a score of 75% from critics and 89% from audiences on Rotten Tomatoes.
The ensemble cast of The Running Man remake elevates the project, particularly with Wright at the helm, making it a compelling addition to Hollywood’s landscape of remakes. Edgar Wright’s involvement indicates it could rise above the typical action film, allowing it to stand out amidst the sea of sequels and remakes that populate theaters today. Following the successes of Top Gun: Maverick (2022), Hit Man (2023), and Twisters (2024), Glen Powell embodies the leading-man charisma necessary for this high-stakes remake. Domingo, although not the primary focus, has showcased his versatility as an actor, promising to be an excellent addition to the film.
