The Running Man: Dumber Than I Remember, But Still Kinda Brilliant?

Okay, so I just rewatched The Running Man (1987). Let's be real, it's not high art. The dialogue is cheesy as all hell, and the plot holes could swallow a truck. BUT, and this is a big but, there's something undeniably compelling about it, especially now. The whole concept of a dystopian future obsessed with televised violence, used as a distraction from real issues? Pretty damn prescient, even if the execution is... well, 80s action movie levels of hammy. What struck me this time around was the pacing. It's relentless. Once Ben Richards is ON the run, it's basically a non-stop barrage of stuntmen getting incinerated and Arnold delivering terrible one-liners. Which, on one hand, can be exhausting. BUT, it also keeps you from thinking too hard about the logic leaps. I mean, how does Amber Mendez just happen to be at that satellite control center at that exact moment? Don't ask questions, just enjoy the explosions, right? And the gladiators! Sub-Zero, Dynamo, Professor Subzero (wait, two ice guys?). They're ridiculous, but they're also perfectly symbolic of the spectacle the totalitarian regime is pushing. They're not real threats, they're cartoons designed to keep the masses entertained and compliant. I actually think the fight choreography during those scenes are impressive for its time showing how the contestants are clearly 'on display' and trying to entertain the audience at home, even while 'trying' to kill Arnold. My theory? The Running Man works because it embraces its own absurdity. It doesn't try to be a deep, meaningful commentary. It's pure, unadulterated escapism with a surprisingly relevant message buried beneath the explosions and awful puns. So, is it 'good'? Maybe not. Is it entertaining? Absolutely. And is it kinda scary how close we are to some of that stuff being real? Definitely food for thought. And I'd be curious to see if a modern remake can catch the same feel without getting self-serious about the source material. I bet you it sucks.