Glen Powell Dashes Through London in The Running Man Remake—Will It Live Up to Schwarzenegger’s Classic?

Actor Glen Powell is stepping into a dystopian future and onto a treadmill of suspense as he films The Running Man remake in London. The new take on the sci-fi thriller comes 37 years after Arnold Schwarzenegger’s iconic performance in the original 1987 adaptation of Stephen King’s novel.

On November 12, Powell, 36, was spotted on set in casual attire, fully immersed in his portrayal of Ben Richards, a man trying to escape a deadly televised game show that pits him against specialized trackers, police, and the lure of a massive reward. The production marks Powell’s latest high-profile project following his breakout role in Top Gun: Maverick.

A Timely Revival

In this updated Running Man, Edgar Wright (Baby Driver, Last Night in Soho) takes the helm, blending his signature style with King’s dark, dystopian vision. The story remains centered on a future where reality television has gone to sinister extremes, forcing contestants to risk their lives in pursuit of wealth. Richards, driven by desperation to help his ailing daughter, becomes a reluctant participant in the brutal game.

Joining Powell in the cast are Josh Brolin, Lee Pace, Katy O’Brian, William H. Macy, Emilia Jones, and Michael Cera, making this one of Wright’s most star-studded ventures to date. While the original film leaned heavily on ’80s action tropes and Schwarzenegger’s larger-than-life presence, this reimagining promises a fresh approach with a modern cast and a director known for blending thrills, humor, and kinetic visuals.

Balancing Work and Education

Powell has not only been juggling action-packed scenes in London but also working toward completing his college degree at the University of Texas at Austin. Speaking to IndieWire, the actor described how he’s navigating distance learning while shooting. “I’m going to be coming back for proctored exams and figuring out distance learning,” Powell said, crediting Wright for his flexibility. “He’s been very nice about letting me finish my degree in the middle of his massive movie.”

Powell’s determination to finish school while leading a major Hollywood production highlights his dedication both on and off-screen.

Honoring the Legacy of The Running Man

The original Running Man, directed by Paul Michael Glaser, was a cult favorite, remembered for its mix of over-the-top action and social commentary. With Wright at the helm and Powell in the lead role, this new iteration looks to honor that legacy while reimagining it for contemporary audiences.

As Powell continues filming and balancing academics, fans eagerly await how Wright’s vision will translate King’s prophetic tale into a fresh cinematic experience. The release date has yet to be announced, but if the creative team’s track record is any indication, this remake is sure to keep audiences on the edge of their seats