Stephen King Raves About 'The Running Man': A Modern 'Die Hard' Awaits!

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Stephen King Raves About 'The Running Man': A Modern 'Die Hard' Awaits!

Jihyun Oh · December 2, 2025 at 23:36

Director Edgar Wright's signature rhythmic direction and Glen Powell's explosive action synergy, coupled with a resonant message, are earning widespread acclaim for the film 'The Running Man.'

Adding to the buzz, renowned author Stephen King, who penned the original novel, has shared his enthusiastic praise for the film.

'The Running Man' follows 'Ben Richards' (Glen Powell), an unemployed father who enters a global survival program, facing deadly pursuers for 30 days in a bid for a massive cash prize.

King, impressed after an early screening, described the film as "Fantastic. Like a modern 'Die Hard,' a thrilling spectacle!" He further elaborated in a conversation with director Edgar Wright, stating, "I'm very satisfied with the film. Everything just clicked perfectly. There's a 'Die Hard'-like sparkle to this movie."

King also highlighted how the film masterfully incorporates the prescient visions from his novel, written over 40 years ago, into today's reality. "I liked the scene where a guy says, 'You're on Free-V right now.' Drones, acting as cameras, are flying overhead, following people everywhere. That's already happening in reality," he remarked, emphasizing the striking parallels between the film's setting and contemporary life, citing the misuse of deepfake technology and the constant exposure to cameras.

Furthermore, King lauded Glen Powell's portrayal of 'Ben Richards.' "'Ben Richards' is a truly likable character. It's crucial for the protagonist to be someone you can root for. The character Glen Powell plays genuinely gives off that feeling. He feels like a real person, which is great," he praised, admiring Powell's performance that brings out the everyman qualities of the character.

With its solid foundation from the pioneering imagination of the original novel, combined with Wright's stylish direction and compelling performances, 'The Running Man' is set to heat up the silver screen this winter. The film is scheduled for release on December 10th, promising a dopamine-fueled action experience with Wright's distinctive direction and Powell's fearless stunts.

Korean netizens are buzzing with anticipation, commenting things like 'If Stephen King praises it, I have to watch it!', 'Glen Powell's acting is already making me excited,' and 'A modern Die Hard? The action must be insane!'

#Stephen King #Edgar Wright #Glen Powell #The Running Man #Die Hard