Review of Escape from New York (1981) by Matthew B — 15 Jun 2013

An excellent and gritty distopian action film that may have helped redefine 80's action movies and sci fi altogether. Escape From New York is a cult classic film from Halloween director John Carpenter. Carpenter creates a film so unique, so dark that it only compels you to become more interested.

The plot is simple distopian America post-World War III, New York was exposed to some sort of nerve gas therefore the entire island of Manhattan is walled off and is a giant max security prison where criminals who are placed there receive a life sentence and are free to roam around this now scum filled island which was once the great metropolitan city of New York. Air force one crash lands into the prison and the president is taken hostage. A dangerous mercenary known as Snake Plissken is sent in to recover him.

Kurt Russel gives what is undoubtebly is most famous and career defining role as snake, the badass, one eyed, cigarette smoking, gun wielding mercenary who is given an ultimatum accept a life sentence in New York or retrieve the president from there in 24 hours. Russel is great with his smug attitude, his deep raspy voice and his iconic look inspiring many other future anti-heroes. Carpenter's direction is great making the film a neo-noir with his dark imagery, use of low contrast lighting and shadows. The film's grit is truly brought out in this pitch black New York scenery, its haunting and a frightening place to be a part of. The low budget of this film was perfect as it gave less to work with and made the film feel much more real.

Escape From New York's entire pacing is awesome, this is one unique story thats so easy for you to get into. What I loved about this film is that unlike many '80's action films it did not feel corny or cheesy at all it, noir factor really helped distinguish this film from many others. Carpenter directs some very thrilling moments and some cool action packed scenes that aren't over the top! The climax is thrilling and to bring you to the edge of your seat. Escape From New York is a high point in science fiction/action films courtesy of Kurt Russel's perfectly casted performance and John Carpenter's awesome screenplay and directing.