Glen Powell Reveals Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Key Advice for The Running Man Remake

Actor Glen Powell sought wisdom from an icon before his biggest role. Powell stars as Ben Richards in the new remake of the dystopian thriller The Running Man. The film had its premiere in New York City this week. It is a fresh take on the 1987 classic that originally starred Arnold Schwarzenegger.

The Twisters star revealed he personally reached out to Schwarzenegger. He wanted advice and the original star’s blessing for the project. According to Powell, the action legend was excited but offered a crucial warning about the physical and mental toll.

Schwarzenegger’s Blessing and Brutal Warning

Powell shared details of his conversation with Schwarzenegger. The veteran actor told him that leading a major action film is intensely demanding. Schwarzenegger and other actor friends warned Powell about the challenge. They emphasized the unique pressure of carrying a film where “the entire world is hunting this one guy.”

To do such a movie right requires immense physical and emotional commitment. Powell stated he is proud of what the team accomplished. He described the project as very physical and very emotional. This honest insight from seasoned stars prepared him for the rigorous shoot.

Director Edgar Wright also secured Schwarzenegger’s support early on. In April, Powell explained that Arnold had given his full blessing. Schwarzenegger has said The Running Man was the only one of his films he ever wanted remade. He believed the new version could improve on the original’s concept and action.

A Modern Take on a Dystopian Classic

The new film is loosely based on Stephen King’s 1982 novel. The story revolves around a deadly game show where contestants are hunted for sport. The last one standing wins a massive cash prize. This premise remains chillingly relevant in today’s era of reality television and digital spectacle.

The remake aims to update the social commentary and action for a modern audience. Schwarzenegger has praised the new film’s creative and unbelievable action sequences. Industry analysts suggest the project could launch Powell into the upper echelon of action stars. His proactive approach in seeking mentorship shows a respect for the genre’s legacy.

The successful remake of The Running Man hinges on balancing nostalgia with innovation. Glen Powell’s performance, guided by Arnold Schwarzenegger’s veteran advice, is poised to introduce a classic thriller to a new generation.

Thought you’d like to know

When is The Running Man remake being released?

A release date has not been officially announced yet. The project recently held its premiere event in New York. A wide theatrical release is expected to follow in the coming months.

Is Arnold Schwarzenegger in the new Running Man movie?

No, Arnold Schwarzenegger does not have a cameo role in the remake. His involvement was purely advisory, giving his blessing and advice to star Glen Powell and director Edgar Wright.

How is the remake different from the original 1987 film?

The new film is a contemporary reimagining of the concept. It is directed by Edgar Wright and stars Glen Powell. It aims to modernize the social critique and action for today’s audience while staying true to the core premise.

Who wrote The Running Man story originally?

The story was originally a novel published in 1982 by Stephen King. He wrote it under the pseudonym Richard Bachman. The 1987 film and this new remake are both adaptations of his dystopian premise.

What did Glen Powell do to prepare for the role?

Powell engaged in extensive physical training for the demanding action sequences. He also sought advice from veteran action stars like Arnold Schwarzenegger to understand the unique pressures of leading a major franchise film.