Edgar Wright's The Running Man Unleashes Intense New Trailer One Month Before Release

Edgar Wright has dropped the second official trailer for his highly anticipated adaptation of Stephen King’s The Running Man, giving audiences another adrenaline-fueled glimpse at Glen Powell’s fight for survival in a dystopian future[1][3]. With just one month remaining until the film’s November 14 theatrical release, the new footage showcases the relentless action and tension that fans can expect from Wright’s reimagining of the classic novel.

The trailer opens with the premise of a near-future society where The Running Man reigns as television’s top-rated show—a deadly competition that has captivated a bloodthirsty public[3]. Contestants, known as Runners, must survive 30 days while being hunted by professional assassins, with every move broadcast to millions and each day bringing greater cash rewards[5]. Director Edgar Wright shared the trailer on social media with the caption, “Play the game or the game plays you,” emphasizing the high-stakes nature of this brutal entertainment[1].

Glen Powell Takes Center Stage

Glen Powell stars as Ben Richards, a desperate working-class father who enters the deadly competition as a last resort to save his sick daughter[3]. The trailer reveals Powell’s character being attacked from multiple angles as he attempts to outwit both the professional Hunters and a nation addicted to watching his potential downfall[1]. Powell, who has been building his action credentials through roles in Top Gun: Maverick, Hit Man, and Twisters, appears poised to deliver another standout performance in this intense survival thriller[1].

What sets Ben Richards apart from other contestants is his defiance, instincts, and grit, which transform him into an unexpected fan favorite—and a threat to the entire system[3]. As ratings skyrocket, so does the danger surrounding him, creating a mounting tension that permeates every frame of the new trailer.

Stellar Cast and Creative Team

Beyond Powell’s leading role, The Running Man features an impressive ensemble cast. Josh Brolin plays Dan Killian, the charming but ruthless producer who convinces Richards to enter the game[3]. The supporting cast includes Lee Pace, Michael Cera, William H. Macy, Emilia Jones, Daniel Ezra, Jayme Lawson, Sean Hayes, Katy O’Brian, and Colman Domingo[3].

Edgar Wright, known for his distinctive visual style in films like Baby Driver and Shaun of the Dead, directs from a screenplay he co-wrote with Michael Bacall[1][3]. The film is produced by Simon Kinberg, Nira Park, and Wright himself[3].

What Makes This Adaptation Different

While Arnold Schwarzenegger starred in a 1987 adaptation of King’s novel, Wright’s version promises a fresh take on the source material. The new trailer emphasizes the media spectacle aspect of the story, highlighting how modern society’s obsession with reality television and violent entertainment has reached its logical extreme[3]. The action appears relentless, with Wright’s signature kinetic filmmaking style evident throughout the footage[1].

The film explores themes of class struggle, media manipulation, and survival against impossible odds—all wrapped in a high-octane action package that should appeal to both Stephen King fans and action movie enthusiasts.

The Running Man arrives exclusively in theaters on November 14, 2025.

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Photo by dmncwndrlch on Pixabay