The 'Ordinary' Arnie? Actor Glen Powell Revives Schwarzenegger's The Running Man
LOS ANGELES – Hollywood's star-making machine is often criticized for its lack of originality. But when a charismatic actor like Glen Powell is cast in a reboot of Arnold Schwarzenegger's iconic 1987 dystopian action film, 'The Running Man', it sparks excitement.
Despite his rising fame, Powell, a courteous Texan who returned to his roots in Austin, remains grounded. He doesn't see himself as exceptional, stating, 'That era of action stars and movie stars? You can't compare apples to oranges.'
In the new 'The Running Man', Powell's character, Ben Richards, is a far cry from Schwarzenegger's indestructible action hero. Richards is an everyman with no special skills, relying on his rugged toughness and short temper. He reluctantly enters a deadly game show to save his daughter's life, facing off against professional killers and a world out to get him.
The film, directed by Edgar Wright, closely follows Stephen King's novel, set in a dystopian 2025 with deepfake videos and a healthcare crisis. Powell's performance showcases his versatility, as he battles against all odds, from being bashed and bruised to abseiling down buildings in a bath towel. The night before the interview, Powell and Wright screened the movie for Schwarzenegger, who empathized with the challenges of action sequences.
Powell's rise to prominence began with his role as a cocky fighter pilot in 'Top Gun: Maverick'. Since then, he's showcased his range in 'Anyone But You', 'Twisters', and 'Hit Man'. His production company's deal with Universal Pictures and upcoming fantasy film from J.J. Abrams further solidify his status as a versatile and ambitious actor, producer, and writer, much like the legendary Stallone.
