Edgar Wright’s Race to Complete ‘The Running Man’ for Stephen King

Edgar Wright, known for films like Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz, is set to release a new adaptation of Stephen King’s novel, The Running Man. This adaptation opens in theaters on November 14. Wright’s fascination with the story began in his childhood when he read King’s book, originally published in 1982 under the pseudonym Richard Bachman. He was inspired by the 1987 film featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger, despite feeling its deviation from the source material.

Wright’s Journey to Adaptation

Wright’s interest in remaking The Running Man persisted throughout his career. He explored the possibility of acquiring the rights years ago, but faced obstacles. Eventually, producer Simon Kinberg reached out to Wright after acquiring the rights, allowing him to bring his vision to life. This was a significant moment for Wright, as he described the opportunity to adapt a story he loved as a “dream come true.”

Staying True to the Source Material

Wright emphasizes that this film is not merely a remake but a new adaptation that aims to stay faithful to King’s original narrative. While he acknowledges the 1987 adaptation’s unique qualities, Wright’s version seeks to capture the essence and broader scope of the novel.

The Film’s Unique Elements

• Wright’s adaptation features Arnold Schwarzenegger in a cameo, connecting back to the original film.
• The adaptation pays homage to the 1987 film’s cheerleader choreography, referencing Paula Abdul’s famous routines.
• The fast-paced storytelling was meticulously crafted throughout the entire filmmaking process, from writing to post-production.

Collaboration with Stephen King

Wright collaborated directly with Stephen King, who reviewed and approved the adaptation. This collaboration brought added pressure, as Wright aimed to meet both King’s expectations and his own vision for the film. Notably, Wright gifted King a lime green jumpsuit from the film, personalized with the name “King,” symbolizing their connection.

Looking Back and Forward

Reflecting on his previous works, particularly Shaun of the Dead, Wright expressed pride in its legacy as it celebrated its 20th anniversary last year. He noted the impact that film had on his career and continues to influence his creative collaborations today.

As he looks ahead, Wright envisions future projects but remains focused on the current success of The Running Man. He underscores the ambition and scale of this adaptation as a significant step forward in his career.

With The Running Man set to release on November 14, audiences are eager to see how Wright’s vision unfolds on screen.