Stephen King approves Running Man’s latest adaptation, giving Edgar Wright’s daring approach his personal endorsement just ahead of the film’s November release in theaters. This rare approval from King highlights that the film’s creators, including co-writer Michael Bacall, have managed to earn the author’s respect despite taking significant creative risks, particularly with a new ending.
Wright’s Adaptation Brings Fresh Perspective
In adapting The Running Man, director Edgar Wright set out to craft a version that is closer to King’s original 1982 novel than the 1987 movie starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. However, Wright and Bacall decided not to simply reproduce the original story. Instead, their adaptation introduces major changes, most notably a completely reimagined finale, setting this version apart both from the book and previous film. Wright explained that their approach was guided by a desire to retain the core energy and spirit of the novel, even as they ventured in a new direction.
What we settled on very early, in terms of talking about the adaptation, is a different way of doing it that still has the same fire. It needed to kind of have the same spirit of the book, but in a different way.
—Edgar Wright, Director
The Dystopian World and Ben Richards’ Struggle
The Running Man follows Ben Richards, played by Glen Powell, an out-of-work father who must find a way to pay for his daughter’s medical needs. In desperation, Richards enters a brutal television game show set in a near-future dystopia, where contestants are hunted by professional killers and must survive for 30 days for a shot at a massive cash prize. The concept remains a powerful commentary on society, violence, and the desperation that can stem from economic hardship, with this new version retaining those intense stakes.
King’s Approval and Its Consequences
The most validating moment for Wright and his team came when Stephen King himself gave a green light to their adaptation. Wright shared that King’s endorsement, especially of the new ending, was both rewarding and daunting, knowing that the celebrated author had final approval over the script.
What was very gratifying to me is Stephen King had to sign off on the adaptation, so there was a point in the production where we had to send him the script to get his approval, and he loved the script, and he said, ‘I think you did a great job with the ending.
—Edgar Wright, Director
Wright acknowledged that King’s praise brought an extra level of pressure, emphasizing the responsibility of living up not only to his own expectations but also to those of King himself.
But now I also have to live up to what’s in Stephen King’s head as well. So I think then for the rest of the movie, you’re almost making it for an audience of one.
—Edgar Wright, Director
Anticipating the Film’s Release and Reception
The fact that Stephen King approves Running Man’s bold direction could sway opinions as the film nears its theatrical debut. While some early viewers and critics remain divided over the ending, King’s enthusiastic support may influence the broader audience and shift perceptions. Edgar Wright’s ability to please the original author, despite intense fan scrutiny, stands as a significant accomplishment.
With The Running Man scheduled to premiere in theaters on November 14, anticipation is building around how Wright’s vision will resonate with fans of King, followers of the original film, and new viewers alike. The approval from King, along with the film’s intense and controversial reworking of key elements, ensures it will be one of the most discussed adaptations of the year.
