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Edgar Wright’s “The Running Man” Races to Theaters November 7
READ TIME: 3 MIN.
Edgar Wright, acclaimed for his genre-bending filmmaking, brings a bold new vision to Stephen King’s “The Running Man,” with the film set to open in theaters nationwide on November 7, 2025 . This new adaptation stars Glen Powell in the lead role originally made famous by Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 1987 film, signaling a generational shift both in casting and in approach .
Set in a near-future society where a brutal reality TV show forces ordinary people to run for their lives, the story interrogates themes of media spectacle, state control, and personal agency . Wright’s adaptation, with a script by Michael Bacall, aims to bring a deeper psychological and social resonance to this narrative, reflecting contemporary anxieties about surveillance, representation, and the marginalization of diverse identities .
The cast includes not only Glen Powell as Ben Richards but also Colman Domingo, Jayme Lawson, Emilia Jones, and Daniel Ezra in prominent roles . Colman Domingo, an openly gay actor and advocate, plays Bobby Thompson, the charismatic host of the deadly game show, adding a layer of queer visibility to a genre often criticized for its lack of LGBTQ+ representation .
Domingo’s involvement has already sparked conversation about the importance of LGBTQ+ actors in major studio productions, especially in roles that subvert stereotypes and expand the narrative possibilities for queer performers in action and science fiction genres . The film’s ensemble further integrates actors from a broad array of backgrounds, signaling a commitment to intersectional storytelling that resonates with LGBTQ+ and other marginalized audiences .
At its core, “The Running Man” is a story about what it means to resist an oppressive system—an allegory that has long held special meaning for LGBTQ+ communities worldwide. The protagonist’s struggle to survive against overwhelming odds, aided by a network of rebels and allies, echoes the lived experiences of those who have fought for dignity, safety, and recognition in the face of institutional violence .
Advocates note that the reimagined “Running Man,” with its focus on collective action and the power of chosen family, dovetails with contemporary conversations about mutual aid and solidarity within queer and trans communities . The casting of Jayme Lawson and Daniel Ezra in significant supporting roles further broadens the film’s perspective, offering viewers a more inclusive reflection of community and resistance .
The original 1987 adaptation of “The Running Man” became a cult classic, but it has also been critiqued for its lack of diversity and limited engagement with the politics of identity . Wright’s version arrives at a time when Hollywood is under increasing pressure to tell stories that reflect the full range of human experiences—including those of LGBTQ+ people and other historically marginalized groups .
Industry observers are watching closely to see how the film’s release—and its marketing—will engage LGBTQ+ audiences. Early promotional materials have highlighted the film’s diverse cast and its resonance with contemporary issues of representation, surveillance, and spectacle . With a release date moved up to avoid competition with other blockbusters, “The Running Man” is positioned as a major fall event for a wide and intersectional audience .
“The Running Man” opens nationwide on November 7, 2025, with advanced screenings expected in major cities and a likely presence at fall film festivals . As anticipation builds, advocates and fans alike are hopeful that this new adaptation will set a precedent for more inclusive storytelling in mainstream cinema—and offer a thrilling, affirming experience for LGBTQ+ viewers and allies.
