Escape from New York (1981)

Science Fiction Action
→ Influenced 1 films ← Inspired by 5 films

In a world ravaged by crime, the entire island of Manhattan has been converted into a walled prison where brutal prisoners roam free. After the US president crash-lands inside, war hero Snake Plissken has 24 hours to bring him back.

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Connections

← Inspired By

Death Wish
Death Wish (1974)1
 The Omega Man
The Omega Man (1971)2
 Once Upon a Time in the West
Once Upon a Time in the West (1968)3
 Kiss Me Deadly
Kiss Me Deadly (1955)4
 Dirty Harry
Dirty Harry (1971)5

→ Influenced

Machete
Machete (2010)6

Sources

Influenced By

  1. Death Wish (1974)
    "Carpenter cited this Charles Bronson vigilante film as a significant inspiration, particularly its portrayal of New York as a crime-ridden urban jungle." Escape From New York: 15 Facts For The Most Hardcore John Carpenter Fans Sam Kench Looper
  2. The Omega Man (1971)
    "This film's depiction of a dystopian future with a lone protagonist navigating a desolate cityscape parallels the setting and atmosphere of "Escape from New York."" Forty Years On, John Carpenter’s 'Escape from New York' Is Still a Hugely Entertaining Vision of a Dark and Dangerous Future Keith Phipps GQ
  3. Once Upon a Time in the West (1968)
    "The film's influence is evident in the Western archetype embodied by Snake Plissken, reflecting Carpenter's admiration for the genre and its themes of rugged individualism." Escape from New York: John Carpenter’s cult sci-fi classic transformed Kurt Russell from a Disney Kid into one of the greatest action icons of all time MANK'S MOVIE MUSINGS
  4. Kiss Me Deadly (1955)
    "The use of a mysterious, dangerous briefcase in "Escape from New York" echoes the "great whatsit" in this classic film noir, contributing to the film's noir elements." A Snake in the Grass: Escape From New York and Noir Fusion Movies Are My Boyfriend
  5. Dirty Harry (1971)
    "The character of Snake Plissken was influenced by Clint Eastwood's portrayal of the tough, anti-establishment cop, reflecting a similar rebellious and rugged persona." Escape From New York: 15 Facts For The Most Hardcore John Carpenter Fans Sam Kench Looper

Influenced

  1. Machete (2010)
    "Rodriguez was influenced by John Carpenter's "Escape from New York," appreciating the freedom it suggested and the antihero character of Snake Plissken." My Favorite Cult Movies The Daily Beast