In the world of Hollywood, where action speaks louder than words, Tom Cruise stands out not just for his breathtaking stunts but also for his legendary sprints across the silver screen. Known for his pulse-racing running scenes in the Mission: Impossible series, Cruise’s running prowess has become as iconic as his roles. It’s no surprise then that Glen Powell, gearing up for his role in Edgar Wright’s remake of The Running Man, turned to Cruise for invaluable advice on how to tackle one of the film’s most physically demanding aspects.
Glen Powell Seeks Tom Cruise’s Expert Guidance
Glen Powell’s connection with Tom Cruise, strengthened during their collaboration in Top Gun: Maverick, set the stage for a mentorship that transcends the typical co-star camaraderie. At CinemaCon, Powell shared a nugget of advice from Cruise that is as straightforward as it is profound: “Film yourself running as soon as possible. You don’t look as cool as you think you do.” This piece of advice not only underscores the humility required in acting but also highlights Cruise’s commitment to the authenticity and intensity of the cinematic experience.
This guidance came at a crucial time as Powell prepared to step into a role that demanded not only physical endurance but also a portrayal that was true to the spirit of Stephen King’s dystopian universe. The original Running Man, which starred Arnold Schwarzenegger, was noted for its raw portrayal of a televised survival game, but Wright’s version promises to align more closely with King’s original narrative, introducing a fresh perspective to the story.
Edgar Wright and The Theatrical Experience
Director Edgar Wright, known for his distinctive filmmaking style as seen in Last Night in Soho, has always emphasized the importance of the theatrical experience. Wright believes in recreating the profound emotions he felt as an audience member in the cinemas, aiming to evoke the same in viewers of The Running Man. His collaboration with Powell and the incorporation of Cruise’s seasoned advice is a testament to his dedication to crafting films that are not just watched but experienced.
A Grueling Production with High Stakes
According to Powell, preparing for The Running Man was the most challenging project of his career. His decision to perform his own stunts, influenced perhaps by Cruise’s iconic dedication to authenticity, meant that Powell experienced the physical extremities his character endured firsthand. This immersive method, Powell noted, profoundly impacted his performance, bringing a grittiness and realism that only true physical exertion can achieve.
The film, which also features stars like Josh Brolin, Michael Cera, and Colman Domingo, wrapped up production shortly before its presentation at CinemaCon. With its release scheduled for November 7, 2025, The Running Man is poised to be a significant cinematic event, offering audiences a blend of intense action and a compelling narrative.
Anticipating a Cinematic Spectacle
The advice from Tom Cruise to Glen Powell goes beyond simple tips on running—it’s about the relentless pursuit of excellence and the authenticity that defines truly great cinema. As Powell took this advice to heart, preparing for a role that could well redefine his career, audiences worldwide await a film that promises not just to entertain but to engage them on a visceral level. The stage is set for The Running Man to become a new benchmark in action cinema, where every sprint and every scene holds the weight of genuine effort and cinematic passion.