The premise of 2025’s The Running Man is simple: If the hero can survive a game show, he’ll win a huge cash prize. The problem? Surviving the game is virtually impossible. The Edgar Wright-directed film, the latest adaptation of the same-titled Stephen King novel, follows Ben Richards (Glen Powell), an ordinary man in dire financial straits. In order to secure the show’s reward, Ben and his fellow contestants must evade professional hunters – and do it all in front of a worldwide audience.
If you want to observe Ben’s journey, too, then you can stream The Running Man on Paramount+. If you’ve already seen The Running Man, then, hey, go ahead, and stream it again, we won’t mind! If you want to watch something different – something that’s new to you, but still full of the action, social commentary, and pursuits of The Running Man – then we’ve got just the thing: a guide to five movies streaming now on Paramount+ that run just as hard.
Top movies to watch if you love The Running Man
1. The Running Man (1987)
What is it? It’s the original film version of The Running Man!
Why you’ll love it: Two words: Arnold. Schwarzenegger. The action star is great in this 1987 hit. He, of course, has iconic one-liners, too. (See: “He had to split.”) As an added bonus, Richard Dawson, best known as the congenial host of Family Feud, is great as the twisted host of the movie’s deadly game – a performance that rated Dawson Oscar® buzz back in the day. So, pop that popcorn, and get cozy. Showtime awaits.
WATCH NOW: The Running Man (1987)
2. Novocaine
What is it? In this 2024 action-packed comedy, mild-mannered Nathan Caine (Jack Quaid) can’t feel pain. His rare condition becomes his secret weapon when he goes on a mission to save the woman he loves (Amber Midthunder) from kidnappers.
Why you’ll love it: The movie leans into its unusual premise: What if a protagonist who couldn’t rely on normal pain signals was forced to run headfirst into danger? Director Dan Berk shoots much of the action in tight spaces, letting the camera tag along as Nathan absorbs hits that would normally end a fight, or worse.
WATCH NOW: Novocaine
3. The Contractor
What is it? In the 2024 film, former U.S. Army Special Forces soldier James Harper (Chris Pine) has his life turned upside down when he is involuntarily discharged from the military. Struggling to support his wife and young son, Harper accepts a job with a private military contractor (Kiefer Sutherland). When a mission overseas goes wrong, Harper becomes the target of the very organization he trusts.
Why you’ll love it: As in The Running Man, The Contractor is about a hero who goes on the run to survive. You’ll feel the tension as Harper slowly realizes how much of the mission he’s misunderstood – and how quickly he must adapt.
WATCH NOW: The Contractor
4. Roofman
What is it? Inspired by a remarkable true story, this 2025 film follows a former Army reservist (Channing Tatum), who becomes an infamous burglar known for breaking into fast-food restaurants by cutting through their roofs. As authorities close in, the story reveals the complicated motivations of the man behind the headlines.
Why you’ll love it: The compelling, but sometimes-somber Roofman isn’t flashy like The Running Man, but it offers its own brand of commentary on what you’ll go through to keep your head above water.
WATCH NOW: Roofman
5. Due Justice
What is it? In this 2023 action entry, Max (Kellan Lutz) tracks down the people responsible for a devastating attack on his family. Each lead pulls him deeper into the violent criminal network behind the tragedy.
Why you’ll love it: Due Justice is a thrill ride that focuses less on flashy set pieces and special effects, and more on the persistence of a man who refuses to stop once he’s begun his quest for answers. Sound like a fella named Ben Richards, fans of The Running Man?
WATCH NOW: Due Justice
Why movie fans love The Running Man (2025)
Like its 1987 predecessor, the Glen Powell-led version of The Running Man boasts a delectable mix of dystopian science fiction, action, dark comedy – and TV game shows. Ah, yes, and Glen Powell. Also a big reason fans love this movie.
Bonus picks from the same creative team
If The Running Man (2025) got you with its mix of action, satire, and media spectacle, there are other movies featuring its stars – or connected to director Edgar Wright – that are worth adding to your watch list. And like The Running Man (2025), all these titles are streaming now on Paramount+.
Top Gun: Maverick
Before stepping into the game of The Running Man, Glen Powell made a major impression as Lt. Jake “Hangman” Seresin alongside Tom Cruise’s Maverick in the 2022 blockbuster sequel to Top Gun.
WATCH NOW: Top Gun: Maverick
Baby Driver
Helmed by The Running Man (2025) director Edgar Wright, this electric 2017 film showcases the filmmaker’s signature blend of kinetic action and inventive storytelling. The movie follows Baby (Ansel Elgort), a getaway driver whose life revolves around perfectly-timed escapes set to a curated soundtrack. Press “Watch Now,” and you’ll be hooked at the first chords of “Bellbottoms.”
WATCH NOW: Baby Driver
Availability of titles is subject to change.
The Running Man (2025)
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