Speeding into cinemas this November is the dystopian action-thriller, The Running Man. Directed by Edgar Wright and based on Stephen King’s book of the same name (written under his pseudonym Richard Bachman), the film follows the story of Ben Richards – a working class hero who takes part in a life-or-death reality show.
Describing the movie, Paramount Pictures said: “In a near-future society, The Running Man is the top-rated show on television—a deadly competition where contestants, known as Runners, must survive 30 days while being hunted by professional assassins, with every move broadcast to a bloodthirsty public and each day bringing a greater cash reward.
“Desperate to save his sick daughter, working-class Ben Richards (Glen Powell) is convinced by the show’s charming but ruthless producer, Dan Killian (Josh Brolin), to enter the game as a last resort. But Ben’s defiance, instincts, and grit turn him into an unexpected fan favorite—and a threat to the entire system.
“As ratings skyrocket, so does the danger, and Ben must outwit not just the Hunters, but a nation addicted to watching him fall.”
Previously adapted for film in 1987, with Arnold Schwarzenegger in the role of Ben Richards, this latest iteration promises to be closer to the source material. It is also expected to be a popular film with audiences, especially those who are fans of Edgar Wright (Shaun of the Dead, Baby Driver, etc).
But when the movie hits cinema screens will it be suitable for all ages? More importantly, will the film be suitable for a teenager?
Let’s take a look at the age rating.
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The Running Man UK age rating
In the UK, The Running Man has been awarded at ‘15’ certificate by the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC). The movie has received this certificate due to “strong bloody violence, language, (and) brief sex references.”
In the UK, a ‘15’ certificate film is deemed suitable for audiences aged 15 or over. What’s more, no one under the age of 15 can view a ‘15’ certificate movie in the cinema.
So, when it comes to the film’s suitability, the BBFC makes it clear The Running Man is suitable for some teens (those 15+) but not suitable for all teens (i.e. 13 or 14 year olds).
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The Running Man US age rating
In the US, the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) has given The Running Man an ‘R’ rating. The film has received this rating for strong violence, some gore, and language.
In the US, an ‘R’ rated movie can be watched by any one of any age. The only stipulation is that audiences under the age of 17 must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.
‘R’ rated movies contain some adult material, so the MPAA advise parents to learn more about the movie before taking young children. However, this is only guidance, so it is ultimately up to parents to make the decision.
So, is The Running Man suitable for a teenager? That’s ultimately up to parents to decide, but teenagers can view the movie in cinemas, so long as those under 17 are accompanied.
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