Glen Powell is going all out in his role for the upcoming action film “The Running Man,” set to hit theaters on November 14. During an appearance on “The Graham Norton Show” on November 7, Powell shared some of the physically demanding challenges he faced while filming, including an intense scene where he had to abseil down an eight-story building in freezing conditions, clad in little more than a harness. “Believe me, nothing looked good,” he joked about the awkwardness of the situation.
Behind the scenes, the stakes were high not just on-screen but also off. Powell humorously revealed that there was a crew member tasked with preventing him from accidentally kicking a window during the shoot, making for an uncomfortable dynamic as he quipped, “I wondered what he was seeing take after take.”
The film is a remake of the 1987 classic starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, itself based on Stephen King’s 1982 novel. Powell portrays Ben Robinson, a character trapped in a deadly game of hide and seek as he and other contestants are hunted down by dangerous adversaries. He likened the experience to being constantly on edge, saying, “He’s fully charged up the whole time…so your adrenaline’s gonna be up the whole time.”
Preparing for the numerous stunts required an intense training regimen, and Powell admitted that the physical toll came as a surprise to him. He and director Edgar Wright maintained a strict commitment to authenticity, with both pushing each other to the limits to ensure the film’s credibility. “No shortcuts. Get it right,” was their mantra.
For additional preparation, Powell reached out to Tom Cruise, his “Top Gun: Maverick” co-star. Known for his high-octane action roles, Cruise spent over two hours on the phone with Powell, imparting valuable insights on handling the demanding nature of stunts. Powell expressed deep appreciation for Cruise’s willingness to share his experiences, emphasizing the dedication required to succeed in such roles.
Furthermore, he received advice directly from Schwarzenegger, who reminded him of the grueling reality of action movie production. Powell reflected on the reality of the job, admitting, “I was licking my wounds and icing my body down at the end of every day. There was not one easy day on set.”
With high expectations riding on “The Running Man,” fans are eager to see Powell take on this formidable role. As anticipation builds, it’s clear that the dedication and hard work by Powell and the entire cast have set the stage for an exciting cinematic experience.