Netflix fans can discover 'original Hunger Games' before remake releases

Netflix fans will be able to discover the 'original Hunger Games' before its remake releases very soon.

The 1987 version of The Running Man will be added to the major streaming platform on September 7. This should give fans plenty of time to check out the sci-fi classic before its remake hits the big screen later this year, in November.

They are both an adaptation of the novella of the same name, which was written by Stephen King. Although penned by the acclaimed author, it was originally published under King's alternate pen name, Richard Bachman.

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King published at least four books under the name of Bachman, with the publications even carrying a fake author's photograph. It is believed King chose a pseudonym so he could release more than one book a year without saturating the market with his own name.

Once the writer's true identity was revealed, all these stories were collected as The Bachman Books. This included The Running Man, Rage, Roadwork and another title receiving a big screen adaptation in 2025, The Long Walk.

King actually insisted that the 1987 film version of The Running Man, still name Bachman as the writer. It was directed by Paul Michael Glaser, who as an actor himself, has appeared in Ray Donavan among other shows.

Set in a dystopian America, a falsely convicted policeman gets his shot at freedom when he must forcibly participate in a TV game show where contestants referred to as runners, must go on the run for their freedom. They can go anywhere and do anything it takes to survive but are relentlessly pursued by highly skilled killers and even members of the public wanting to claim the prize for their own.

The film starred Arnold Schwarzenegger in the leading role at the height of his action movie era.

One fan called it "the original Hunger Games story. Thrilling, gripping, action packed with an outstanding lead role by Arnold Schwarzenegger." Another claimed: "One of Arnold Schwarzenegger's best films. Hilarious one liners and a great plot."

Sharing a similar view someone else posted: "The original Battle Royal and Hunger Games for an older generation, The Running Man is a container of many quotable lines and an enjoyable Schwarzenegger display."

Meanwhile, someone else posted: "What an amazing movie. This is a mega-campy 80’s masterpiece! The movie doesn’t take itself TOO seriously which really helps. If you liked this, you may also like: ROBOCOP."

The 1987 film is sometimes criticised however, for the many changes it makes from the original book. Edgar Wright, known for helming Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz and Scott Pilgrim Vs the World is in charge of the upcoming remake.

He has already spoken about how his version will stay true to the text. He told Empire magazine: ""One of the things about the book that I loved was the fact that Ben Richards is out in the world on his own, so it's like the deadliest game of hide and seek. It does feel like making a road movie in a lot of ways: a very intense, dangerous road movie."

In the 2025 update, Glen Powell takes on the lead role this time around. He will be joined by the likes of Michael Cera, Colman Domingo and Lee Pace. The first trailer was released a couple of months ago, with many fans sharing their excitement.

One replied: "This is the most hyped looking movie I've seen all year. I've never rewatched a trailer so many times since Deadpool and Wolverine I'm so excited to see this movie!!"

The Running Man is streaming on Netflix from September 7, the 2025 remake is in cinemas November 7.