When you hear the name Glen Powell, you might immediately think of the charismatic fighter pilot he portrayed in Top Gun: Maverick. However, Powell is stepping into a much different, more challenging role in Edgar Wright’s upcoming film, The Running Man. Scheduled for release on November 7, 2025, this dystopian action-thriller, based on Stephen King’s novel, promises to showcase Powell in a light we’ve never seen before.
In this highly anticipated adaptation, Powell takes on the role of Ben Richards, a desperate father participating in a deadly reality show to save his critically ill daughter. With SWAT teams and drones in hot pursuit, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Wright, known for his dynamic filmmaking, shared at CinemaCon that this film would offer audiences someone to root for.
Glen Powell’s Unprecedented Challenge
At a recent CinemaCon event, Powell shared insights into the grueling preparation for his role, which he described as the hardest of his career. “Probably what I get for asking Tom Cruise for advice on using a stunt double. Now that I’ve gone through fire, I can say I’ve never worked harder on a movie in my life,” Powell revealed (via Deadline).
This statement is particularly striking considering Powell’s intensive experience working with Cruise, who is renowned for his dedication to performing complex stunts himself. Cruise’s influence is evident in Powell’s newfound commitment to authenticity and intensity in his performances. Reflecting on his training for Top Gun: Maverick, Powell remarked, “Half of the shots in the movie, I’m literally holding a bag of my puke. Every time we went up there you had to mentally brace for a fight” (via Vulture). His experience with Cruise clearly set a new standard for what audiences can expect from him moving forward.
Endorsements and Expectations
Adding to the excitement, Powell received a nod of approval from none other than Arnold Schwarzenegger, the original star of the 1987 adaptation of The Running Man. “Arnold gave us his blessings,” Powell shared with People, noting that he reached out through Schwarzenegger’s son, Patrick, a close friend. This endorsement from the original “Running Man” adds a layer of legacy and expectation to Powell’s portrayal.
Wright and Powell are not just recreating a story; they are making a statement about endurance, spectacle, and the human spirit. As Wright pointed out, “To make films, one has to be the audience as well.” This perspective is crucial in creating a film that resonates with viewers on multiple levels.
Looking Ahead
With The Running Man, Glen Powell is not just stepping into new roles; he’s pushing his limits and expanding his horizons. From the physically demanding scenes in Top Gun: Maverick to the intense emotional and physical challenges of The Running Man, Powell is proving himself to be a versatile and dedicated actor committed to bringing complex characters to life.
As we anticipate the release of The Running Man, it’s clear that Powell’s journey through Hollywood is as dynamic and thrilling as the characters he plays. Whether he’s in the air or on the run, Glen Powell is a force to be reckoned with, and his latest venture is something no movie enthusiast will want to miss.