Acclaimed author Stephen King has expressed his enthusiastic support for the upcoming remake of The Running Man, particularly praising director Edgar Wright for reimagining the film’s conclusion. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, King described the new ending as “faithful, yet surprising,” providing a fresh take that resonates with both longtime fans and new viewers.
Director’s Vision and Author’s Approval
The 2025 adaptation stars Glen Powell as Ben Richards, a character whose struggles against a corrupt society mirror the themes of King’s original 1982 novel, which he published under the pseudonym Richard Bachman. Despite maintaining the core elements of corruption, survival, and rebellion, Wright’s film deviates significantly from the book’s climactic finale. King has embraced this change, stating, “I like the ending of Edgar’s version of The Running Man very much. I think readers of the novel will be satisfied because they get to have it both ways.”
In King’s novel, Ben Richards meets a tragic end after hijacking a plane in retaliation for the murder of his family. The story concludes with a catastrophic explosion at the network’s headquarters, encapsulated by the haunting line: “The explosion was tremendous, lighting up the night like the wrath of God.” In stark contrast, the film presents a more ambiguous conclusion. In the final moments, Richards’ plane is shot down, and he is declared dead, only for conspiracy theories to arise around his potential survival. The film hints at this when a masked figure, later revealed to be Richards himself, secretly provides for his family.
A Modern Twist on a Classic Tale
Wright’s adaptation emphasizes emotional depth and vulnerability, presenting Richards as more conflicted than the 1987 portrayal by Arnold Schwarzenegger. The film highlights the emotional stakes for Richards’ family and critiques a society that profits from human suffering. Powell noted the multifaceted nature of the project, stating, “To do one of these movies right, it’s physical, it’s emotional, it’s all those things.”
The cast features a strong ensemble, including Josh Brolin, Colman Domingo, and Emilia Jones, enhancing the film’s gritty and stylish adaptation. King’s collaboration with Wright marks a significant moment for fans of both creators, with Wright revealing that King was enthusiastic about the screenplay from the outset. “Stephen King read the screenplay before we started filming. I was nervous about what he’d think, but he loved it,” Wright explained.
As audiences anticipate the film’s release, it has already generated buzz for its blend of action, emotional performances, and King’s endorsement. While the ending diverges from the original narrative, it offers a contemporary twist that aligns with the film’s themes, ensuring that viewers remain engaged until the final credits.
The 2025 remake of The Running Man is now playing in theaters worldwide, inviting both fans of the original novel and new audiences to experience its explosive journey. King’s approval of the film’s direction suggests a satisfying balance between authenticity and innovation, leaving room for speculation about the film’s impact on the legacy of his work.
