The Running Man (1987) Review in 2025
In a dystopian future, prisoners are forced to participate in a deadly game show called 'The Running Man' where they must survive and complete challenges to win their freedom.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for family viewing due to excessive violence and mature themes.
CineReview Recommendation
Recommended for fans of action, adventure, and science fiction movies. Suitable for streaming or watching in theaters.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The movie follows Ben Richards, a wrongly accused man who is forced to participate in the game show. He must use his wits and skills to survive and uncover the truth behind the game show, while also navigating the complexities of the show's producers and the government's involvement.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a unique concept that explores the darker side of reality TV. However, the plot is somewhat predictable and lacks depth.
acting8.00/10
The acting is generally strong, with standout performances from Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Conchita Alonso. However, some actors feel miscast and lack chemistry with their co-stars.
characters7.00/10
The characters are well-developed and memorable, particularly Ben Richards, played by Arnold Schwarzenegger. However, some characters feel underutilized and lack complexity.
direction8.00/10
Paul Michael Glaser's direction is solid, with a clear vision for the film's tone and style. However, some scenes feel rushed and lack tension.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is impressive, with a blend of practical and special effects that create a visually stunning world. However, some scenes feel overly reliant on CGI.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Engaging story, memorable characters, impressive cinematography, and a standout performance from Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Cons
Predictable plot, underutilized characters, and some scenes feel rushed or overly reliant on CGI.
Notable Quotes
"I am the Running Man!"
"The Running Man is not just a game, it's a way of life!"
"You're a dead man, Richards!"
