“Review: 121. The Running Man – A Prescient, Pulpy Thriller
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Review: 121. The Running Man – A Prescient, Pulpy Thriller
"The Running Man," a 1987 dystopian action thriller directed by Paul Michael Glaser, is a film that has only grown more relevant with age. While often dismissed as a simple Arnold Schwarzenegger vehicle, a closer look reveals a surprisingly prescient commentary on media manipulation, government control, and the public’s insatiable appetite for violence disguised as entertainment. It’s a film that, despite its inherent camp and 80s excesses, manages to tap into anxieties about the future that resonate even more strongly today.
The Premise: A Deadly Game Show
The film is loosely based on a 1982 novel of the same name by Stephen King (writing as Richard Bachman). The setting is a totalitarian United States in the year 2017 (now, ironically, in the past), where the economy has collapsed, and the government maintains control through a combination of propaganda and brutal suppression. The most popular form of entertainment is "The Running Man," a deadly game show where convicted criminals, often falsely accused, are given a head start and hunted down by professional killers known as "Stalkers."
Arnold Schwarzenegger stars as Ben Richards, a helicopter pilot wrongly convicted of massacring civilians during a food riot. He escapes from prison with two fellow inmates, Laughlin (Yaphet Kotto) and Weiss (Marvin J. McIntyre), only to be captured and forced to participate in "The Running Man." Richards is given a chance to survive by outwitting and outfighting the Stalkers, all while being broadcast live to a bloodthirsty audience.
Arnold: The Quintessential Action Hero
Schwarzenegger is perfectly cast as Ben Richards. He embodies the stoic, resourceful action hero archetype that defined much of 80s cinema. His imposing physique, coupled with his often-wooden delivery, ironically adds to the film’s charm and contributes to the overall sense of heightened reality. While not known for his dramatic range, Schwarzenegger excels at portraying characters who are physically dominant and morally righteous, making Richards a compelling protagonist. He delivers his trademark one-liners with gusto, providing moments of levity amidst the film’s grim subject matter. The audience roots for Richards not just because he’s the hero, but because Schwarzenegger convincingly portrays him as a man fighting against a corrupt system.
Beyond the Action: A Dystopian Vision
"The Running Man" is more than just a series of explosions and fight sequences. It presents a bleak vision of a future where the line between reality and entertainment has blurred to the point of non-existence. The government, led by the ruthless Damon Killian (Richard Dawson), uses "The Running Man" to distract the public from the real problems facing society: poverty, oppression, and lack of freedom. The show is carefully crafted to manipulate viewers’ emotions, portraying the "Runners" as dangerous criminals deserving of their fate, while glorifying the Stalkers as heroes.
This aspect of the film is particularly relevant today, in an era of reality television and social media where manufactured drama and sensationalism often overshadow genuine issues. "The Running Man" serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of blindly accepting what we see on screen and the importance of critical thinking. The film suggests that a society obsessed with entertainment can easily become desensitized to violence and injustice.
Richard Dawson: The Villain We Love to Hate
Richard Dawson’s performance as Damon Killian is one of the film’s highlights. Killian is the smarmy, charismatic host of "The Running Man," a master of manipulation who understands how to control the audience’s perceptions. Dawson, known for his role as the host of "Family Feud," uses his natural charm and wit to create a villain who is both repulsive and strangely captivating. He’s a showman at heart, more concerned with ratings than with morality. Killian embodies the film’s critique of the entertainment industry, highlighting the potential for those in power to exploit and manipulate the public for their own gain. Dawson’s portrayal is so effective that it’s easy to forget he’s acting; he seems genuinely gleeful in his role as the architect of this twisted spectacle.
The Stalkers: Memorable Gladiators of the Future
The Stalkers are a colorful and memorable group of villains, each with their unique weapon and personality. They are the gladiators of this futuristic arena, their identities carefully crafted to appeal to specific demographics. Subzero (Professor Toru Tanaka), the ice-skating assassin, embodies cold efficiency. Buzzsaw (Gus Rethwisch), the chainsaw-wielding maniac, represents brute force. Professor Tanaka’s portrayal of Subzero is particularly memorable, his silent menace adding a chilling dimension to the character. Dynamo (Erland van Lidth de Jeude), the opera-singing behemoth who uses electrified rods, is a bizarre and unforgettable creation. Fireball (Jim Brown), with his flamethrower and fiery temper, adds another layer of danger. Finally, Captain Freedom (Jesse Ventura), a retired Stalker who initially supports the system, eventually experiences a change of heart and joins Richards’ rebellion.
These Stalkers are not just nameless villains; they are characters with distinct personalities and backstories, albeit briefly sketched. They represent the different facets of violence and entertainment that "The Running Man" critiques. They are also a reflection of the 80s action movie landscape, where over-the-top villains were a staple of the genre.
Action and Visuals: Pure 80s Excess
"The Running Man" is a visually striking film, full of vibrant colors, futuristic sets, and over-the-top action sequences. The production design captures the gritty, decaying atmosphere of the dystopian setting, while also incorporating elements of high-tech futurism. The costumes are equally memorable, particularly the Stalkers’ outlandish outfits and weaponry. The action sequences are plentiful and well-choreographed, showcasing Schwarzenegger’s physical prowess and the Stalkers’ unique fighting styles. The film’s visual style is undeniably 80s, with its emphasis on neon colors, synth music, and larger-than-life characters. While some may find this style dated, it adds to the film’s overall charm and contributes to its unique identity.
Social Commentary: More Relevant Than Ever
Despite its action-packed premise, "The Running Man" offers a surprisingly insightful commentary on several social issues. The film explores the dangers of government control, media manipulation, and the public’s obsession with violence. It also touches on themes of poverty, inequality, and the struggle for freedom. These themes are arguably even more relevant today than they were in 1987. The rise of reality television, social media, and increasingly polarized political discourse has made the film’s critique of media manipulation particularly prescient. "The Running Man" reminds us to be critical of the information we consume and to question the motives of those in power.
Flaws and Criticisms:
While "The Running Man" is an entertaining and thought-provoking film, it is not without its flaws. The plot can be somewhat predictable, and the dialogue is often cheesy and over-the-top. Some of the special effects look dated by today’s standards. The film also simplifies complex social issues, presenting them in a somewhat cartoonish manner. However, these flaws are forgivable, given the film’s overall entertainment value and its enduring relevance. The film’s primary goal is to entertain, and it succeeds admirably in that regard. Its social commentary, while not always subtle, adds depth and resonance to the experience.
Legacy and Influence:
"The Running Man" has had a lasting impact on popular culture. It has been referenced and parodied in countless films, television shows, and video games. The film’s dystopian vision has also influenced numerous works of science fiction. "The Running Man" remains a popular and enduring film, thanks to its combination of action, humor, and social commentary. It is a testament to the power of genre cinema to entertain and provoke thought simultaneously.
Conclusion:
"The Running Man" is a pulpy, action-packed thriller that also happens to be a surprisingly insightful commentary on the dangers of media manipulation and government control. While it embraces the excesses of 80s cinema, its themes remain relevant and thought-provoking. Arnold Schwarzenegger delivers a memorable performance as the wrongly accused hero, and Richard Dawson shines as the smarmy villain. The Stalkers are a colorful and unforgettable group of adversaries. Despite its flaws, "The Running Man" is a highly entertaining and ultimately prescient film that deserves to be seen and appreciated. It’s a reminder that even in the most dystopian of futures, the fight for freedom and truth is always worth fighting. It earns a solid 121 out of a possible 150 points.
