The Running Man: A Critical Review and a Look at the Numbers
The Running Man, a film adaptation of Stephen King's original book, is now in theaters, starring Glen Powell and directed by Edgar Wright. The film has received a 64% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes, marking a career low for both Wright and Powell. This score is particularly notable given Wright's high scores for most of his films and Powell's reputation as a sought-after star. However, it's worth noting that the original 1987 action film starring Arnold Schwarzenegger has a 59% critic score, so The Running Man is not entirely without precedent.
Here's a breakdown of the scores for Wright and Powell's films:
Edgar Wright films:
- The Running Man – 64%
- Last Night in Soho – 75%
- Baby Driver – 92%
- The World's End – 89%
- Scott Pilgrim vs. The World – 83%
- Hot Fuzz – 91%
- Shaun of the Dead – 92%
Glen Powell films:
- The Running Man – 64%
- Twisters – 75%
- Anyone But You – 53%
- Hit Man – 95%
- Devotion – 81%
- Top Gun: Maverick – 96%
- Set It Up – 92%
- Hidden Figures – 93%
Despite the low score, The Running Man may still be worth a watch. The trailer is engaging, and the film could still be enjoyable. However, it's worth noting that the original film starring Schwarzenegger has a 61% audience score, so it's possible that The Running Man will have a similar reception.
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