‘The Running Man’: Edgar Wright on Directing His Most Expensive Movie
Edgar Wright, known for his quirky, genre-bending films like Hot Fuzz and Baby Driver, directed his most costly and challenging movie yet, The Running Man. The production took place during freezing February in Bulgaria, where harsh weather conditions tested the cast and crew.
Shooting Challenges in Extreme Cold
Glen Powell, starring as a game-show contestant fighting for survival in this adaptation of Stephen King’s dystopian novel, faced one of the most demanding scenes: dangling almost naked from a rope eight stories high, in subfreezing temperatures. Wright observed from the ground, bundled in a parka and sipping espresso as Powell endured the cold.
“It’s always temporary pain for eternal cinematic glory,” Powell joked about the grueling shoot.
Wright's Passion for Precision
Wright is known for his meticulous approach to filmmaking. He carefully choreographs action sequences and obsessively strives for the perfect shot. During the rappelling scene, Powell hung in a harness for 30 minutes as the crew reset cameras, reflecting Wright's dedication to detail.
The scene features Powell’s character escaping deadly hunters by jumping from a hotel window and descending the building’s side with barely any clothing.
Production Environment and Impact
The shoot was the longest and coldest in Wright’s career, with a recent blizzard blanketing Bulgaria in snow, adding to the difficulty. Yet Wright’s commitment and Powell’s endurance highlight their drive to create a memorable cinematic experience.
Author’s summary: Edgar Wright’s The Running Man pushed boundaries as his most expensive film, marked by brutal cold, precise action choreography, and Glen Powell’s daring performance.