The Running Man (1987) Review

·1 hr 3 min·5 clips

Why does Alec think the 1987 Arnold Schwarzenegger classic 'The Running Man' isn't a staple 80s movie, and what makes the upcoming Edgar Wright remake so fascinating?

Justin and Alec introduce the episode by stating they'll review the 1987 film 'The Running Man', with Justin noting he didn't watch it growing up despite being an Arnold Schwarzenegger fan. They immediately contrast it with the upcoming 2025 remake directed by Edgar Wright, whom Alec praises as a top modern director. The hosts discuss the film's production value, comparing it to 'Total Recall' and noting Harold Faltermeyer's score. Justin explains he recently read the Stephen King novel (written as Richard Bachman), highlighting differences like the book's countdown chapter structure and dystopian setting in 2025. They note the film drastically changes the plot, with the book's protagonist volunteering for a game show to save his sick daughter. The conversation covers the movie's cast, including Arnold Schwarzenegger's performance, Richard Dawson as the host, and stalkers like Dynamo (played by Erland van Lidth, who died shortly after filming). Alec points out the film's deepfake technology, which feels relevant today. Justin details the book's intense ending where the hero crashes a plane into a TV network, arguing it would be a bold move for the remake. They compare Arnold's muscular build to Glenn Powell's more average physique for the new version. The hosts then rank their top Arnold Schwarzenegger movies, with both including 'The Running Man' in their top ten. They briefly touch on other Arnold films like 'Commando', 'Junior', and 'Red Heat', as well as tangential topics such as separating art from artists regarding figures like Kevin Spacey and Jared Leto. The episode concludes with plans to cover 'Final Destination' movies in the future.

As heard by us

An Arnold rewatch that turns a late discovery into a sharp movie-versus-book discussion.

Strange Glow Video treats The Running Man (1987) as an Arnold Schwarzenegger blind spot finally getting its turn. Justin's late first watch sits against a childhood shaped more by Terminator, Terminator 2, and Twins, which gives the discussion an easy Arnold frame without…

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Why you'd press play

Press play for an Arnold detour with videotape-era chatter and a book ending that swerves hard.

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