Epic Future Survival 'The Running Man', Production Points Revealed

The future society depicted in 〈The Running Man〉 has revealed its production points that complete a differentiated survival experience.

〈The Running Man〉 is a chase action blockbuster directed by Edgar Wright, where the unemployed father Ben Richards (Glenn Powell) must survive for 30 days against brutal pursuers in a global survival program for a huge cash prize. This film actively reflects the original work by Stephen King and showcases a captivating future society.

The first production point is the polarized future world that serves as the backdrop for 〈The Running Man​〉​ . The world, which is both strange and familiar due to the deepening wealth gap, was inspired by the aesthetic of future design based on analog technology known as 'Cassette Futurism'. Director Edgar Wright stated, "The film features only technologies that exist in some form today. However, while some have noticeably advanced, others have regressed. I wanted to depict a world where progress and decline coexist simultaneously." The retro elements woven throughout the film will delight the eyes. Additionally, the desolate slum side of 〈The Running Man〉 is characterized by brutalist architecture featuring concrete structures, while the sophisticated uptown is completed with a combination of London architectural elements, adding to the enjoyment of comparison.

The second production point is the music that adds density to the story. Music supervisor Steven Price, who won an Academy Award for 〈Gravity〉 and an Emmy for the documentary 〈David Attenborough: Our Planet〉​, has created music that plays a crucial role in the film. The final production point is the thrilling chase action that elevates excitement to its peak. Ben's exhilarating counterattack as he enters a survival program with zero odds to protect his family will raise adrenaline levels. Notably, cinematographer Jung Jung-hoon, who made his Hollywood debut, captures action scenes with various perspectives and creative filming techniques, enhancing the visual pleasure. Edgar Wright explained, "A drone camera called 'Rover' appears, allowing the audience to experience the action from multiple angles. I thought this was a great opportunity to showcase Jung Jung-hoon's strengths as a cinematographer."

〈The Running Man〉 will be released in South Korea on December 3.