The Running Man (1987)

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.

Genres: Action, Thriller, Science Fiction

What to watch after The Running Man

• Commando (1985) — Steven E. de Souza wrote for both
• Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines (2003) — Same subject: dystopia
• Last Action Hero (1993) — Arnold Schwarzenegger appears in both
• Conan the Barbarian (1982) — Arnold Schwarzenegger appears in both
• Boss Level (2020) — Two steps away in the credits
• The 6th Day (2000) — Same subject: dystopia