Arnold Schwarzenegger has expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming reboot of The Running Man, according to actor Glen Powell. The acclaimed star, known for his role as Ben Richards in the original 1987 film, praised the new adaptation, calling it “incredible.” Powell, who takes on the lead role in the reboot, shared details of his conversation with Schwarzenegger during a recent interview with Screen Rant.
During their discussion, Powell noted that Schwarzenegger was particularly impressed by the way the new film adapts Stephen King‘s original vision. “He just kept saying, ‘It’s incredible,’” Powell recounted. The 37-year-old actor also highlighted the admiration Schwarzenegger expressed for the challenging stunts in the film, reflecting on the physical demands of action filmmaking.
Revisiting the Original
Powell revealed that he and Schwarzenegger watched the original The Running Man together in a private screening. The 78-year-old actor reminisced about the difficulties faced during the production of the 1987 film, which included the departure of its director, Andrew Davis, early in the shoot. Powell said, “It was one of those movies that had some problems when they were shooting it,” emphasizing the ambition behind the project and the challenges it encountered.
The original film, which is based on King’s 1982 novel, is set in a dystopian future where the impoverished are hunted for sport on live television. In the reboot, Powell portrays Ben Richards, a desperate contestant who enters the deadly game in hopes of securing funds for his sick daughter. As he navigates the brutal competition, he learns that survival requires turning the game against its creators.
Praise for the Director
Powell also took the opportunity to commend the film’s director, Edgar Wright, calling him “one of the greatest filmmakers” and noting the unique tone he brings to the project. The reboot is set to open in cinemas on November 14, 2025, and features a talented supporting cast, including Emilia Jones, Michael Cera, Katy O’Brian, Jayme Lawson, Colman Domingo, and Josh Brolin.
As anticipation builds for the film’s release, Powell’s insights into Schwarzenegger’s reaction highlight the connection between the original and the new adaptation. With a blend of nostalgia and innovation, the reboot aims to resonate with both fans of the original and a new generation of viewers.
