Netflix subscribers are in for a treat as they will have the chance to watch the ‘original Hunger Games’ before its upcoming remake.
The 1987 version of The Running Man is set to land on the popular streaming platform on 7 September. This should provide fans ample time to enjoy this sci-fi classic before its remake graces the big screen later this year, in November.
Both films are adaptations of the novella bearing the same title, penned by renowned author Stephen King. Interestingly, it was initially published under King’s pseudonym, Richard Bachman.
King released at least four books under the Bachman moniker, complete with a fabricated author’s photograph.
It’s thought that King adopted an alias to publish more than one book annually without flooding the market with his own name.
Once King’s true identity was unveiled, all these narratives were compiled as The Bachman Books. This collection includes The Running Man, Rage, Roadwork and another title set for a cinematic adaptation in 2025, The Long Walk, reports the Mirror.
Intriguingly, King insisted that the 1987 film adaptation of The Running Man still credit Bachman as the writer. The film was directed by Paul Michael Glaser, who has also had acting roles in shows such as Ray Donavan.
Set in a dystopian America, a wrongly convicted police officer receives his chance at liberty when he’s forced to take part in a television game show where participants known as runners must flee for their freedom.
They can travel anywhere and employ any means necessary to survive whilst being ruthlessly hunted by expert assassins and even ordinary citizens seeking to claim the reward for themselves.
The picture featured Arnold Schwarzenegger in the principal role during the peak of his action cinema period.
One admirer described it as “the original Hunger Games story. Thrilling, gripping, action packed with an outstanding lead role by Arnold Schwarzenegger.”
Another declared: “One of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s best films. Hilarious one liners and a great plot.”
Expressing a comparable opinion, someone else wrote: “The original Battle Royal and Hunger Games for an older generation, The Running Man is a container of many quotable lines and an enjoyable Schwarzenegger display.”
Meanwhile, someone else wrote: “What an amazing movie. This is a mega-campy 80’s masterpiece! The movie doesn’t take itself TOO seriously which really helps. If you liked this, you may also like: ROBOCOP.”
The 1987 picture faces criticism at times, however, for the numerous alterations it makes from the source novel.
Edgar Wright, recognised for directing Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz and Scott Pilgrim Vs the World is overseeing the forthcoming remake. He has already shared his commitment to staying true to the original text.
Speaking to Empire magazine, he said: “One of the things about the book that I loved was the fact that Ben Richards is out in the world on his own, so it’s like the deadliest game of hide and seek. It does feel like making a road movie in a lot of ways: a very intense, dangerous road movie.”
In the 2025 remake, Glen Powell steps into the lead role. He will be joined by an impressive cast including Michael Cera, Colman Domingo and Lee Pace.
The first trailer was unveiled a few months ago, sparking a wave of anticipation among fans.
One fan responded: “This is the most hyped looking movie I’ve seen all year. I’ve never rewatched a trailer so many times since Deadpool and Wolverine I’m so excited to see this movie!”
The Running Man is streaming on Netflix from September 7.