The Running Man Trailer: Powell, Brolin, Cera Star

The first trailer for The Running Man has arrived, showcasing Glen Powell in a more faithful adaptation of Stephen King's novel compared to Arnold Schwarzenegger’s 1987 sci-fi classic.

The trailer introduces Glen Powell’s down-on-his-luck character, Ben Richards, who enters The Running Man—the most popular TV show in this dystopian America—driven by desperation to afford medical care for his ailing daughter. With Powell's character blacklisted and unable to secure work, he sees no other choice. This contrasts with Schwarzenegger’s version, where Richards is a framed police officer forced into the deadly competition.

The show itself also operates differently. Powell's Richards must evade capture across the entire nation, fighting for survival and a chance at the massive cash prize. His every step is broadcast to the public, as the trailer vividly illustrates. To win, Richards only needs to stay alive for 30 days—though, unsurprisingly, it won't be that straightforward.

Directed by Edgar Wright, known for Shaun of the Dead and Baby Driver, this new take on The Running Man reflects his signature fast-paced style. Wright has expressed his intention to stay truer to King’s original novel, which is evident in casting choices like Josh Brolin as Killian, the show's executive producer, and Colman Domingo as the host, Bobby Thompson. Before the competition begins, Richards confronts Killian, vowing to exact revenge.

This adaptation expands the scope beyond the 1987 film. While Schwarzenegger’s Richards battled within a confined arena filled with memorable boss fights, Powell’s version is pursued nationwide. The trailer hints at an action-packed sequence where Richards dodges gunfire in an apartment corridor before sliding into an elevator for a narrow escape.

Throughout his ordeal, Richards is relentlessly pursued by a masked figure whose identity remains secret. Entertainment Weekly revealed the character is named McCone, portrayed by Foundation star Lee Pace.

One thing is clear: Glen Powell does a lot of running in this film—and yes, he loses his shirt at one point. We also catch a glimpse of Michael Cera, who starred in Wright’s Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, aiding Richards by dousing an electrified floor with water. The scene feels straight out of a video game.

According to EW, Cera portrays Elton Parrakis from the novel. Wright added, "His role here might surprise audiences, given his past performances. It was thrilling to work with him and see the unlikely chemistry between him and Glen Powell—their dynamic is incredibly fun to watch."

The Running Man hits theaters on November 7, 2025.