Story perspectives

Glen Powell Wins Stephen King's Approval for 'The Running Man'

10/20/2025

Summary

Story summary

Glen Powell needed Stephen King's approval to star in Edgar Wright's adaptation of "The Running Man."
At New York Comic Con, Powell revealed he awaited King's verdict after a screening of his film "Hit Man."
King approved, expressing that he loved the film.
In this adaptation, Powell's character competes in a deadly televised game to save his sick daughter, offering a modern twist on King's 1982 novel.
"The Running Man" is scheduled for release on November 14, 2023, by Paramount Pictures.

History

Historical Context

Stephen King's 1982 novel "The Running Man" critiques media manipulation and dystopian society, reflecting the era's growing fascination with such themes. The 1987 film adaptation, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, further popularized these ideas amid rising economic concerns. Glen Powell's recent casting in a new adaptation, set for release on November 14, 2023, underscores the enduring relevance of King's work in contemporary discussions about entertainment and society.

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Story summary

Glen Powell needed Stephen King's approval to star in Edgar Wright's adaptation of "The Running Man."
At New York Comic Con, Powell revealed he awaited King's verdict after a screening of his film "Hit Man."
King approved, expressing that he loved the film.
In this adaptation, Powell's character competes in a deadly televised game to save his sick daughter, offering a modern twist on King's 1982 novel.
"The Running Man" is scheduled for release on November 14, 2023, by Paramount Pictures.

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