Why The Running Man Isn't Just Another Action Movie: A Fresh Take on a Classic
The Running Man, directed by Edgar Wright and based on Stephen King's 1982 novel, is one of the most anticipated fall releases here at /Film. But is it a remake of Arnold Schwarzenegger's 1987 action classic? Here's where it gets controversial...
In the world of cinema, the term 'remake' often carries a negative connotation, implying a mere retread of a previous story. However, when it comes to The Running Man, Wright resists this label, emphasizing that the movie is more than just a remake. Speaking to Empire magazine, he stated, "I felt that nobody needs, or wants, a straight remake of the 1987 film, but the source material had not been wholly adapted."
The 1987 film, directed by Paul Michael Glaser, is noted to be a loose adaptation of King's novel. It turned the satirical story into a typical Arnold action flick, and King himself wasn't a fan. Wright, on the other hand, wants to bring King's original vision to the big screen, and his script earned King's approval.
So, how do we define a remake versus a new adaptation? It's not always clear-cut. For instance, the anime series Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is often called a remake of the earlier 2003 anime, but it's actually a new adaptation designed to be more faithful to the original manga. Similarly, Guillermo del Toro's Frankenstein is trying to faithfully adapt Mary Shelley's novel, but it incorporates details from the 1931 James Whale movie.
Then there's Total Recall, another Arnold Schwarzenegger sci-fi action flick. The 2012 version, starring Colin Farrell, makes many changes to the setting, but the characters and structure come from the 1990 movie. So, does the 2012 Total Recall count more as a remake or another adaptation of Philip K. Dick's story?
Ultimately, it comes down to one's preference. Wright's preference is that you not view The Running Man as a remake of the Schwarzenegger movie, but as a fresh adaptation of King's story. And that's what makes it so exciting - a chance to see a classic story reimagined in a whole new way.
The Running Man is set for theatrical release on November 14, 2025. Will you be there to witness this fresh take on a classic? Let us know in the comments what you think - is it a remake or a new adaptation?
