Glen Powell Discusses His Role as a Hunter in Edgar Wright's The Running Man

In a world where survival often resembles a ruthless game, Glen Powell’s portrayal of Ben Richards in Edgar Wright’s adaptation of The Running Man delivers a new take on Stephen King’s classic story. This modern retelling not only amplifies the pulse-pounding chase but also examines deeper issues of violence, morality, and the hunger for spectacle in media-driven societies.

The Story’s Core Conflict

At the center of the plot is Ben Richards, played by Glen Powell — an ordinary man forced into a deadly game show where he must avoid capture for thirty days. The prize is a staggering one billion dollars, a sum that drives Richards to risk everything in hopes of saving his ailing daughter and wife. The film balances relentless action with emotional depth, illustrating how desperation and love intersect in extreme circumstances.

Lee Pace as the Enigmatic Hunter

Opposite Powell, Lee Pace plays Evan McCone, a mysterious masked hunter whose presence elevates the intensity of the chase. His character embodies control, menace, and intrigue, serving as the perfect counterpoint to Richards’s raw determination.

In an interview, Lee Pace admitted he was initially uncertain about taking on a role that required his face to remain hidden throughout the film.

Themes and Reflections

The moral consequences of violence consumed as entertainment
The human desire for survival and redemption
The blurred line between heroism and spectacle in a media-obsessed world

Author’s Summary

This reimagining of The Running Man fuses electrifying action with a sharp critique of society’s obsession with televised danger and distorted heroism.

Sohu — 2025-11-07