The Running Man just delivered a major jolt to the box office conversation. Edgar Wright’s $110 million action thriller debuted its world premiere at London’s Odeon Luxe Leicester Square on Nov. 5. The first reactions arrived instantly—and they’re raving. Glen Powell stars as desperate father Ben Richards in this Stephen King adaptation that critics are calling a triumph.
Pluto TV’s Hidden Movie Section Rivals Premium Services
Korean Netflix Has 200+ Shows US Version Doesn’t Stream
🔥 Quick Facts:
- Premiere: Nov. 5, 2025 at London – reactions immediately positive
- Theatrical Release: Nov. 14, 2025 nationwide in North America
- Budget: $110 million – Edgar Wright’s most expensive film ever
- Opening Prediction: $19-28 million opening weekend domestically
- Rotten Tomatoes Sentiment: Critics praising Verhoeven-style satire and Glen Powell’s physical performance
The Premiere Sent Reviewers Into Overdrive
The Running Man premiered to critical acclaim that exceeded expectations. Critics emphasized how Edgar Wright balanced high-stakes action with sharp social commentary. Drew Taylor from The Wrap captured the energy perfectly.
“#TheRunningMan rules. Edgar Wright unleashes superb set pieces, mixing Verhoeven-style satire, sly social commentary and high stakes thrills. Best of all it’s anchored by a great, emotionally resonant performance by Glen Powell.”
Netflix reveals economics behind 3-season cancellations as viewership metrics drop
YouTube Premium Originals Nobody Talks About Are Award-Winning
Rachel Leishman from The Mary Sue went even further, calling it transformative. She wrote that the film “bottled magic with Stephen King’s novel” and will be an “instant classic.” Perri Nemiroff at Collider noted how Glen Powell proved himself the “perfect Ben Richards.” The supporting ensemble—including Jayme Lawson, Josh Brolin, and Colman Domingo—drew universal praise.
Glen Powell’s Star Power Is Now Undeniable
Glen Powell carries this film with a physical, emotionally grounded performance. Reviewers consistently highlighted his charisma and range. FilmLand Empire tweeted that Powell “burns up the screen, angry, masculine, funny and with proper film star charisma.” This roles cements his status as Hollywood’s next leading man.
The movie works because Powell’s Ben Richards feels like an everyman. He’s desperate. He’s trapped. But he’s relatable. Critics noted how Powell and Jayme Lawson establish his motivation early, making audiences invest in his survival.John Campea called the film a “nonstop thrill ride” that lets Powell flex his leading-man abilities in entirely new ways.
The Film Details: Cast, Runtime, and Release Strategy
Here’s what you need to know before the Nov. 14 release.
| Title | The Running Man |
| Director | Edgar Wright |
| Lead Actor | Glen Powell as Ben Richards |
| Supporting Cast | Josh Brolin, Emilia Jones, Colman Domingo, Lee Pace, Michael Cera, William H. Macy |
| Runtime | 2 hours 13 minutes |
| Budget | $110 million |
| US Release Date | Friday, Nov. 14, 2025 |
| Studio | Paramount Pictures |
The film is getting a theatrical release only for now. Box office projections range from $19-28 million for the domestic opening weekend. That’s solid territory for an action thriller, though Glen Powell’s star power could push it higher.
Why These Reactions Matter for Box Office Success
Premiere reactions can be misleading—studios naturally pack screenings with friendly crowds. But these reviews transcend typical industry courtesy. Critics are highlighting specific craft elements that suggest real quality.
The Verhoeven-style satire comparison matters. Paul Verhoeven made films like Robocop and Starship Troopers that combined action spectacle with biting social critique. Edgar Wright doing the same elevates expectations. Reviewers noted how the film critiques reality TV culture and economic inequality—themes that resonate right now.
Early word suggests The Running Man avoids becoming a generic action flick. It has heart. It has humor. Most importantly, it treats Stephen King’s source material respectfully—something the 1987 Arnold Schwarzenegger version never aimed for. Stephen King himself called it a “bipartisan thrill ride.”
What Audiences Should Watch For When It Hits Theaters
- How Glen Powell’s charisma translates to the role of a desperate father
- Whether Edgar Wright’s direction elevates the Stephen King adaptation formula
- The film’s satirical commentary on media culture and desperation
- Josh Brolin’s performance as the charming but ruthless Damon Killian
- The action sequences and Wright’s directorial style applied to pure spectacle
Is Edgar Wright Creating His Masterpiece with This $110M Thriller?
Wright has built a career on genre films with personality. Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, and Baby Driver proved he understands how to balance entertainment with artistry. The Running Man represents his biggest budget yet—and critics suggest he’s delivered.
The question isn’t whether early reactions are positive. They clearly are. The real test comes next weekend when general audiences verdict emerges. But if these premiere reactions hold up, The Running Man could become the year’s standout action thriller and prove Glen Powell belongs in the elite tier of leading men.
Sources
- ComicBookMovie.com – First reactions coverage from UK premiere
- Yahoo Entertainment – Detailed critical reaction roundup
- Variety/Box Office Theory – Box office projections and industry tracking
Daniel Harris is a specialist journalist focused on the crossroads of breaking news, extraordinary history, and enduring legends. With a background in historical research and storytelling, he blends timely reporting with timeless narratives, making complex events and ancient myths resonate with today’s readers. Daniel’s work often uncovers surprising links between present-day headlines and legendary tales, offering unique perspectives that captivate diverse audiences. Beyond reporting, he is passionate about preserving oral traditions and exploring how extraordinary stories continue to shape culture and identity.