Get ready for Edgar Wright’s much-anticipated adaptation of The Running Man, hitting theaters on November 14. Long before this release, Wright, the creative mind behind hits like Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz, had the story close to his heart, having been inspired as a child by Stephen King’s original 1982 novel. His love for the story only deepened when he watched the 1987 film featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger, despite feeling disappointed by how much it deviated from the source material.
Years later, after establishing his career as a successful filmmaker, Wright sought the rights to remake the film. Unfortunately, they were unavailable at that time. However, fate seemed to intervene when producer Simon Kinberg, who acquired the rights, reached out to Wright, making a long-held dream a reality.
This upcoming release promises a more faithful interpretation of King’s narrative, and in a recent conversation with io9, Wright shared insights into the film’s development, pacing, and the homage he paid to both the novel and its earlier cinematic version. He also reflected on his interactions with King, including presenting him with a special set piece from the film. As the 20th anniversary of Shaun of the Dead recently passed, Wright expressed newfound appreciation for the changes made in the 1987 adaptation.
Germain Lussier, io9: You mentioned you’d like to remake The Running Man. What was your reaction when Simon Kinberg contacted you with this opportunity?
Edgar Wright: It’s a rarity in this industry! I can’t recall another instance where someone sought me out for a project I was already passionate about. It felt like a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence.
io9: Did you have a clear vision for the film even before this opportunity?
Wright: Absolutely! I read the book as a teenager, long before seeing the 1987 film. So, by the time I watched the adaptation, I had a distinct vision for how the story could be reimagined. Some years back, I even tried to acquire the rights but faced challenges.
io9: What inspired you to stay true to the book while nodding to the 1987 film?
Wright: Aside from Arnold’s cameo, the only significant tribute is the inclusion of cheerleader choreography inspired by Paula Abdul’s work in the original. It was essential to me to craft a new adaptation that honors the source while distinctly standing on its own.
As we dive deeper into this conversation, you might be wondering about the creative process. For instance, how did Wright enhance the film’s pacing during production? He shared that pacing became a focal point throughout every phase—writing, storyboarding, filming, and especially in editing. Wright mentioned, “We were constantly refining the pacing right until post-production. It’s an ongoing process that requires you to remember the film isn’t quite finished yet.” This level of detail showcases his commitment to maintaining a dynamic viewing experience.
io9: How do you ensure the storytelling is engaging?
Wright: We often edit scenes with sound off to assess visual storytelling, ensuring every shot contributes meaningfully to the narrative. It’s all about refining the set to create a compelling journey.
A common inquiry about adaptations is about authorial voice. How does a director stamp their signature on a project they don’t wholly own? Wright expressed this is less about percentages and more about the collective vision shaped through collaboration with exceptional artists, bringing his unique sensibility to the forefront.
io9: What advice would you give to filmmakers tackling existing properties?
Wright: Understand the essence of the original and respect its legacy while infusing your fresh perspective. My collaboration with Stephen King throughout this project was nerve-wracking but insightful, as he provided feedback that informed our approach.
Fans may be curious: Why does this adaptation hold a contemporary relevance? Wright conveyed that King’s world-building is just as poignant today, with elements echoing modern society’s challenges. This adaptation seeks to reflect that depth and complexity while delivering entertaining cinematic thrills.
Finally, as we wrap up this engaging conversation, it’s worth asking: What projects might Edgar Wright tackle next? While he’s not ready to divulge specific ideas, he emphasized the importance of balance in his creative life, hinting he’s eager for rest and recuperation before considering future ventures.
Discover the visual feast that is The Running Man when it debuts on November 14.
If you found this conversation engaging, continue exploring more content like this at Moyens I/O.