Edgar Wright’s The Running Man remake has emerged as an unexpected hit, earning a 64% Rotten Tomatoes critics score and a strong 78% audience rating across more than 2,500 viewer reviews. Released on November 14, 2025, the dystopian thriller blends high-energy action with Wright’s signature stylistic flair, propelled by a standout lead performance from Glen Powell.
Despite mixed critical reactions, the film’s “Fresh” status and enthusiastic audience reception have positioned it as one of the more surprising success stories of late 2025.
A Bold Reimagining of Stephen King’s Classic
Wright’s adaptation reworks Stephen King’s 1982 novel into a modern, fast-paced spectacle. The critic score places the film above the 1987 Arnold Schwarzenegger version, which sits at 59%. While Wright introduces slick visuals, punchy humor, and relentless momentum, critics note that the remake steers away from the novel’s heavier themes of media exploitation and authoritarian control.
However, audiences seem more than satisfied with the shift. The movie’s 78% viewer score highlights widespread appreciation for its entertainment value, world-building, and adrenaline-driven action.
Glen Powell Delivers a Breakout Action Performance
Glen Powell stars as Ben Richards, a desperate father forced to fight for his life in a deadly government-run TV competition. His performance—balancing charm, desperation, and physical intensity—has earned strong praise even from critics who felt unsure about the film overall.
Powell’s natural charisma anchors the story, providing mass-market appeal that helped draw in younger and mainstream audiences. Supporting actors Michael Cera and Colman Domingo add depth to the ensemble, creating a dynamic arc that keeps the film engaging even when narrative risks fall flat.
Mixed Reviews Highlight the Critical Divide
Industry reactions have varied widely.
The Guardian called the film “likable and fun,” appreciating the energy but noting its lack of emotional depth.
Meanwhile, Roger Ebert reviewers were far harsher, labeling it “relentlessly dull” and awarding just 2.5 out of 4 stars.
Critical Scores Overview:
| Metric | Score |
|---|---|
| Rotten Tomatoes Critics | 64% Fresh |
| Rotten Tomatoes Audience | 78% Fresh |
| Metacritic | 56% Mixed |
| IMDb | 6.7/10 |
The consensus suggests that critics expected stronger thematic execution, especially given Wright’s acclaimed track record—while audiences judged the film primarily on its entertainment merits.
Box Office Underdelivery Contrasts With Audience Love
Though popular among viewers, The Running Man underperformed financially, earning $17 million in its opening weekend and reaching only $50 million worldwide by late November. With a reported $110 million budget, the film’s theatrical run fell short of expectations.
A steep 65% second-weekend drop hints that audience enthusiasm didn’t translate to repeat viewing or strong word-of-mouth. Analysts believe competition from franchise releases and the film’s genre positioning contributed to the softer turnout.
Will The Running Man Earn Cult Status?
Like the 1987 adaptation, Wright’s version may find a second life on streaming platforms. Strong audience sentiment, Powell’s rising star power, and Wright’s established fanbase could help the film gain traction beyond theaters.
For now, The Running Man stands as a crowd-pleasing, stylish dystopian ride—one that critics approached cautiously but viewers embraced for its high-octane thrills.
