‘Escape From New York’ With Bill Simmons, Shea Serrano, and Chris Ryan
Apr 29, 2020
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Bill Simmons, Shea Serrano, and Chris Ryan discuss the revolutionary action movie 'Escape From New York'. They highlight its impact on the genre, sarcastic tone, and memorable scenes. They also talk about earrings as a symbol of villainy and the coincidence of a plane landing on the Twin Towers. The hosts analyze action movie rules, unexpected fights, rewatchable scenes, and trivia about the film. They touch on the surrounding area and Duke's influence, and compare the original movie to its sequel 'Escape from LA'.
Frank Doubleday delivers an unforgettable performance as Romero, making him a deserving winner of the Joey Pants, Vincent Hanna, and Dan Waiter's awards.
The opening scene where the island of Manhattan is laid out and the wall is built is an ageless and gripping introduction to the movie.
The movie's depiction of a post-apocalyptic Manhattan, with its abandoned buildings, gladiator matches, and oppressive military presence, has stood the test of time.
The timeless and atmospheric synth score composed by John Carpenter adds a distinctive and memorable element to the movie.
Kurt Russell delivers a cool and iconic performance as Snake Plissken, solidifying his status as the perfect choice for the role.
Deep dives
Triple Crown Winner: Frank Doubleday as Romero
Frank Doubleday delivers an unforgettable performance as Romero, making him a deserving winner of the Joey Pants, Vincent Hanna, and Dan Waiter's awards.
Memorable Opening Scene Setting up the Story
The opening scene where the island of Manhattan is laid out and the wall is built is an ageless and gripping introduction to the movie.
Dystopian Atmosphere and Production Design
The movie's depiction of a post-apocalyptic Manhattan, with its abandoned buildings, gladiator matches, and oppressive military presence, has stood the test of time.
John Carpenter's Iconic Synth Score
The timeless and atmospheric synth score composed by John Carpenter adds a distinctive and memorable element to the movie.
Impeccable Casting of Kurt Russell as Snake Plissken
Kurt Russell delivers a cool and iconic performance as Snake Plissken, solidifying his status as the perfect choice for the role.
Outstanding Supporting Performances
The talented cast including Adrian Barbeau, Isaac Hayes, and Donald Pleasance provide excellent supporting performances that add depth and interest to the film.
Crafting a Unique and Legendary Action Movie
Escape from New York has stood the test of time as a cult classic, thanks to its originality, gripping storytelling, and innovative action sequences.
Unique Premise and Character: A Prison Turned City
Escape from New York presents an intriguing and unique premise where New York City has been transformed into a maximum security prison. The main character, Snake Plissken, is a war hero with a mysterious past and a psychopathic streak. Unlike typical action movie protagonists, Snake lacks any social redeeming values, making him a dark and captivating anti-hero. Kurt Russell's portrayal of Snake and the film's focus on his internal struggles rather than non-stop action set it apart from traditional action movies.
John Carpenter's Vision and the Future Setting
The collaboration between director John Carpenter and Kurt Russell resulted in a film that offers a distinct perspective. Carpenter's unique look at life and ability to create tension and paranoia sets his work apart. Escape from New York is a prime example, using the futuristic setting to explore themes of decay, decomposition, and the nature of identity. Snake Plissken's eye patch, a visual symbol of an injury that he carries with him, adds to the mysterious and intriguing nature of the character. Carpenter's focus on psychological aspects and asking deeper questions rather than relying solely on action sequences gives Escape from New York a lasting appeal.
The Ringer’s Bill Simmons, Shea Serrano, and Chris Ryan record this pod from the inside of a maximum security prison after rewatching John Carpenter’s 1981 sci-fi adventure ‘Escape From New York’ starring Kurt Russell and Lee Van Cleef.
