Episode #9
The Running Man
The Running Man (1987) • Directed by Paul Michael Glaser
Published 27 October 2025
In this episode of the Four Takes Movie Podcast, Martin, Adam, Luke and David revisit Arnold Schwarzenegger’s 1987 action classic *The Running Man*. From outrageous game-show villains and endless one-liners to impressive practical effects, Stephen King’s disapproval and some very questionable futuristic fashion, the team explore why this dystopian action flick remains pure 80s entertainment. Expect plenty of laughs, trivia and classic Arnie chaos along the way.
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About the Movie
The Running Man
By 2017, the global economy has collapsed and U.S. society has become a totalitarian police state, censoring all cultural activity. The government pacifies the populace by broadcasting a number of game shows in which convicted criminals fight for their lives, including the gladiator-style The Running Man, hosted by the ruthless Damon Killian, where “runners” attempt to evade “stalkers” and certain death for a chance to be pardoned and set free.
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Episode Notes
From the Episode
It's time to start running! Get ready for an 80s overload as the Four Takes team tackles 1987's The Running Man!
Join Martin, Adam, Luke, and David as they dissect a dystopian future where Arnold Schwarzenegger is forced to fight for his life on a violent game show, all while dodging excessive product placement and helicopter footage lifted straight from other movies.
They dive into why author Stephen King (or, Richard Bachman, depending on who you ask) wanted his name scrubbed from this high-octane spectacle. Marvel at the amazing practical special effects, including a prison break where a character's head explodes so realistically, it was hard to figure out how they achieved it without CGI.
Richards, the accused Butcher of Bakersfield, unleashes a barrage of catchphrases, confirming he’ll be back, but only in a rerun. Meet the flamboyant professional killers, including Professor Subzero (who isn't really a professor) and Dynamo, the opera singer who looks like a milk float with lights.
The team also discuss how the protagonists manage to solve the resistance’s biggest dilemma in about 30 seconds, Killian’s shockingly sensitive bodyguard, and how the Film itself is linked with the 80's Christmas classic "Scrooged" in more ways than one.
Tune in to find out why this simple, fast-paced action flick is pure 80s fun and which 1995 psychological thriller the Team will be taking on next time.
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