Stunt Star Glen Powell Pushes Limits for The Running Man Remake

As the highly anticipated remake of The Running Man prepares to hit theaters next week, lead actor Glen Powell is making headlines for his commitment to performing the film's stunts practically. Unlike the 1987 original starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, which featured more stylized action, Powell says the new adaptation aims for a more grounded, relatable approach.

Powell, who recently gained acclaim for his role in Top Gun: Maverick, seems to have taken a page from co-star Tom Cruise's playbook, putting his body on the line to execute the film's action sequences. The actor describes having a "real blast" making the movie, but admits the physical toll was significant, with the stunts representing something he personally went through.

Director Edgar Wright, who co-wrote the screenplay, was determined to make the new The Running Man more faithful to the original Stephen King source material. Part of that vision was ensuring the action felt more like an "everyman" experience, rather than the heightened, CGI-heavy sequences common in modern blockbusters. Powell's dedication to practical stunts appears to have been crucial in achieving this goal.

While CGI has its place, there's an undeniable appeal to seeing actors perform their own death-defying feats. Audiences are sure to appreciate Powell's commitment when The Running Man opens in theaters on November 14th as part of the 2025 movie slate.