Why You'll Love 'The Running Man' & Similar Movies!

Krystel Feeney 21 May 2025

Can a film, a mere collection of images and sound, truly capture the anxieties and aspirations of an era? The answer, as the enduring popularity of 1987's The Running Man proves, is a resounding yes.

The dystopian landscape, the high-octane action, and the exploration of justice within a corrupted system these elements have cemented The Running Man's place in cinematic history. But beyond its thrilling spectacle, the film also serves as a potent reflection of its time, a warning about the dangers of unchecked power and the suppression of individual freedoms. Echoes of this oppression can be found not only in The Running Man, but also in films like Judge Dredd which share similar thematic elements within a dystopian framework.

The story, adapted from a novel by Stephen King, who used the pseudonym Richard Bachman, envisions a near-future America in 2017. Here, the global economy has crumbled, and the United States has become a totalitarian police state that censors all cultural activity. The population is controlled through the barbaric "Games," televised spectacles where convicted criminals must fight for their lives against heavily armed "stalkers."

The film, directed by Paul Michael Glaser, stars Arnold Schwarzenegger as Ben Richards, a wrongly convicted man forced to participate in the gruesome game. His survival depends on his cunning, his physical prowess, and his ability to navigate a treacherous world filled with deadly opponents and a ruthless system.

Here's a glimpse behind the scenes:

Film Title	The Running Man
Release Date	November 13, 1987
Director	Paul Michael Glaser
Based on	"The Running Man" by Stephen King (as Richard Bachman)
Starring	Arnold Schwarzenegger, Maria Conchita Alonso, Richard Dawson, Yaphet Kotto, Jim Brown, Jesse Ventura
Running Time	101 minutes
Genre	Action, Sci-Fi, Dystopian
Budget	$27 million
Box Office	$38.1 million
Metascore	45
Synopsis	In a dystopian future, an innocent man is forced to fight for his life in a televised game show where convicted criminals are hunted by professional killers.
Themes	Dystopia, totalitarianism, media manipulation, survival, rebellion, justice

The film's success lies not only in its action sequences but also in its sharp social commentary. The Games, hosted by the charismatic Damon Killian (Richard Dawson), are a thinly veiled metaphor for the exploitation of the masses by a corrupt government and a media-driven culture. The film cleverly uses the spectacle of violence to critique the desensitization of society and the allure of mindless entertainment.

Critics and audiences have noted how closely The Running Man reflected societal trends and the anxieties of the 1980s, when concerns about media saturation, government overreach, and the erosion of individual rights were prominent. This film's depiction of a society grappling with these issues continues to resonate today, making it a prescient piece of social commentary.

The casting choices also contributed significantly to the film's success. Arnold Schwarzenegger, in his prime, brought his signature blend of physicality and charisma to the role of Ben Richards. His performance, coupled with Maria Conchita Alonso's portrayal of the intelligent and brave Amber Mendez, gives the film a heart amidst the chaos.

The films structure is typical of 1980s action movies. The plot quickly dives into the action, which helps keeps the pace fast and makes it an entertaining watch for many. It's one great set piece after another, with the focus on spectacle and thrilling moments to keep audiences captivated. Moreover, as with many films of that era, it did not waste time with unnecessary build-up, instead of getting straight into the heart of the conflict and the protagonist's fight for survival.

The Running Man doesn't shy away from intense violence, showcasing the brutality of the games and the lengths to which the authorities will go to maintain control. The film is not a subtle film but still provides insightful commentary on social issues, making it more than just another action film of the era.

The film's vision of 2017 might seem dated now, but its themes remain powerfully relevant. The film's critique of media manipulation, government control, and the suppression of dissent are more pertinent than ever in an age of social media echo chambers and the spread of misinformation. The films message serves as a cautionary tale of sorts, urging the audience to question authority and fight for their freedoms.

For fans of the genre, The Running Man offers an exciting ride from start to finish. Its thrilling plot, the stellar performances by the cast, and the well-executed action sequences, which include memorable combat and weapons, make the film a classic that continues to entertain audiences.

In addition to its entertainment value, The Running Man also raises important questions about the nature of freedom, justice, and the role of the individual in a society that is quickly spiraling into the abyss. This makes the film much more than just a mindless action movie, providing ample food for thought that goes beyond the simple spectacle of a man fighting for his life.

Many movies share thematic elements with The Running Man, especially dystopian narratives. Some of these movies include Judge Dredd, Battle Royale, and The Hunger Games (although the latter is targeted toward a younger audience.) These films share common ideas, exploring totalitarian regimes, media manipulation, and the fight for survival. The film is more than a simple action spectacle, it's a compelling piece of cinema with something to say.

The influence of the novel The Running Man by Stephen King, written under the pseudonym Richard Bachman, is undeniable. Its themes have inspired countless films that continue to engage audiences, proving the enduring power of a well-crafted story that resonates with societal concerns. And while it may not be as highly regarded as classics such as Total Recall, The Terminator, or Predator, it is still a very fun and well-crafted movie to watch, cementing its place as a significant entry in the action and science fiction film genres.

The films antagonists, the stalkers, represent the worst aspects of the system and the lengths to which it will go to maintain power. These colorful characters, each with their own distinct weapons and quirks, serve as formidable opponents for Richards. Their presence adds a level of excitement, with the audience eagerly anticipating each encounter. Dawson's portrayal of Killian is particularly noteworthy, as he adds a layer of dark humor and charm to the film.

Comparing the movie with similar titles allows the viewers to appreciate its unique style. It is essential to acknowledge that The Running Man is more than just an action film. It is a commentary on the dangers of a society that loses sight of its values, highlighting the significance of individual courage and resilience in the face of adversity. The films success lies not only in its entertainment value but also in its ability to spark conversations.

The adaptation of Kings work, which itself was an exploration of themes like oppression and control, and also explores the darker aspects of society. Director Paul Michael Glaser, with his experience in television, successfully brought the story to life on the big screen, capturing the tone and essence of the novel while transforming it into an action-packed spectacle.

The 1980s was a time of change and uncertainty, and The Running Man captured the mood of the time perfectly. It reflected the era's anxieties and aspirations, making it a powerful piece of filmmaking. The film offers a fascinating look at how people would cope in the face of crisis, making it one of the most enduring movies of the decade.

The film provides a potent reminder of the importance of critical thinking and questioning authority. It has a timeless quality that continues to attract audiences, making it a staple in the dystopian action genre. The film is a cinematic achievement that continues to captivate and inspire those who see it.

The film's appeal extends far beyond its action sequences, and it is a testament to the power of the filmmakers and the talented cast. The film continues to inspire discussions, making it an essential viewing experience for anyone interested in dystopian narratives or the action genre. Its ability to resonate with audiences over time is a testament to its quality. With each viewing, the film opens up new layers of meaning, inviting viewers to revisit and discover more. The film is a classic that continues to entertain and fascinate, with the potential to remain a top choice for viewers for decades to come.

Some movies with similar plot, but not a remake are: Election Year (2016), Allegiant (2016), and the Resident Evil franchise.

The film's production was notable, employing innovative visual effects and stunts to create a sense of realism, thus enhancing the film's action sequences. The use of practical effects over reliance on CGI was a characteristic of 1980s action movies.

Ultimately, the popularity of The Running Man comes from its ability to entertain while making viewers think. It's a must-watch for fans of the action genre. Its themes still resonate with audiences, making it a classic.

If you're a fan of this genre, you'll love these movies that offer similar thrills and excitement. Check out the trailers for each film to get a taste of the action! One great set piece after another makes it a very well-crafted and very fun movie to watch. It doesn't mess around getting to the action.