The Running Man Review

MPAA Rating: R
Released: 1987

Stephen King's novel The Running Man was a horrifying look at an all too near future where hardened convicts are able to earn pardons for their crimes provided they survive television's most popular life-and-death gameshow: The Running Man! Films based on successful novels often are doomed to fail, but whereas this film adaptation does take some liberties with the original story it retains the essence of the source material.

Featuring some impressive star power, an intriguing premise and loads of thrilling action scenes, The Running Man is essential for any fan of 80's action movies.

Before I dive into the movie review I'd like to point out that I was a huge fan of Stephen King's novel The Running Man walking in. I found his works under the penname of Richard Bachman to be sharp, quick-paced reads that depicted horrifying scenarios that weren't necessarily all that far-fetched.

I'm glad to say that although the film adaptation of The Running Man does diverge from the novel somewhat, it keeps the spirit of the original and creates an action flick that's both terrifying and fun.

The film depicts a near future where America's most popular television show is Running Man, hosted by Damon Killian (Richard Dawson). During each episode, hardened criminals are offered the chance of a full pardon for their crimes provided they survive their appearances on Running Man. Unlike most game shows, Running Man isn't a case of winning or losing… it's a case of life or death since criminals are tossed in unique gladiator arenas and pitted against the show's nearly invincible warriors.

Ben Richards (Arnold Schwarzenegger) is a soldier that is wrongly convicted for the malicious slaughter of 1500 innocent citizens. Killian, fanatical about constantly increasing his show's ratings, takes notice of this hulky ex-soldier and decides he would be a perfect candidate for the show. Richards initially resists Killian's offer, but after some dishonorable persuasion Richards is forced to accept, and so the fun begins.

The premise of the movie in itself is already highly interesting, but the diverse gladiatorial battles really make this movie shine. I don't want to give the surprises away, but one of the foes contestants are pitted against is a huge hockey player with a razor-sharp stick, and as you would expect the battle takes place in an icy, futuristic hockey rink. The other gladiators possess equally interesting designs and arenas.

And what better person to fight these game show gladiators than the muscleman himself: Arnold Schwarzenegger? While I will admit that he's no Robert DeNiro insofar as acting ability, he's got an irresistible charisma and style that makes him a joy to watch in these action-packed offerings. He was one of the 80's premiere action stars for very good reason.

Quite possibly the largest show stealer of them all is Richard Dawson, who's depiction of the ruthlessly ambitious Damon Killian is deliciously evil. If you recall Dawson when he was the host of the Family Feud you'll definitely appreciate his game show host persona in the Running Man.

If you're a Schwarzenegger fan, or just enjoy a solid action film, make sure you do yourself the favor of catching the Running Man.

Movie rating: 7 stars

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