"Escape From L.A." is a 1996 American post-apocalyptic action film co-written, co-scored, and directed by John Carpenter. Serving as a sequel to Carpenter's 1981 film "Escape from New York," the movie sees the return of Kurt Russell in his iconic role as Snake Plissken. Set in a dystopian 2013, the film paints a bleak picture of Los Angeles, now an island where undesirables are deported.
Plot Summary:
In the year 2013, a massive earthquake has turned Los Angeles into an island. The United States government, now a theocratic regime, has turned the city into a prison where those who break its strict moral code are exiled.
When the U.S. President's daughter, Utopia, steals a superweapon and flees to L.A., the government finds itself in a tight spot. Enter Snake Plissken, the notorious outlaw.
Offered a deal to retrieve the weapon in exchange for his freedom, Snake ventures into the anarchic L.A., facing gangs, mercenaries, and old foes. As the clock ticks, Snake must navigate the treacherous terrain, retrieve the weapon, and decide where his loyalties truly lie.
Cast and Characters:
- Snake Plissken (Kurt Russell): The film's anti-hero, a former soldier turned convict. Cynical and battle-hardened, Snake is coerced into the mission but always has a trick up his sleeve.
- Utopia (A.J. Langer): The President's rebellious daughter who sympathizes with the prisoners and steals a doomsday device, setting the plot in motion.
- President (Cliff Robertson): The theocratic leader of the United States, he is desperate to retrieve the stolen weapon and control his wayward daughter.
- Cuervo Jones (Georges Corraface): The main antagonist, a revolutionary leader in L.A. who plans to use the stolen weapon against the U.S. government.
- Map to the Stars Eddie (Steve Buscemi): A fast-talking "tour guide" in L.A. who becomes an unlikely ally to Snake.
Where to Stream
United States (US):
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Australia (AU):
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Great Britain (GB):
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Germany (DE):
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Spain (ES):
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France (FR):
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Canada (CA):
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Production Details:
"Escape From L.A." was a collaborative effort between John Carpenter, Debra Hill, and Kurt Russell, all of whom worked on the original 1981 film. The movie was produced with a budget of approximately $50 million, a significant increase from its predecessor.
Filming took place in various locations, including Los Angeles, to capture the city's iconic landmarks in a dystopian setting. The film utilized a mix of practical effects and early CGI, which, while groundbreaking at the time, has since been critiqued for its dated appearance.
Reception and Awards:
Upon its release, "Escape From L.A." garnered mixed reviews from critics. While many praised Russell's performance and the film's action sequences, others felt it retreaded too much ground from the original and criticized its heavy-handed satire. The film grossed around $25 million domestically, making it somewhat of a box office disappointment given its budget.
However, in the years since its release, "Escape From L.A." has gained a cult following. Fans appreciate its campy approach, memorable one-liners, and its unique blend of action and social commentary. While it didn't win major awards, the film's legacy is evident in its continued relevance and the discussions it sparks about society, morality, and the nature of freedom.
Trivia and Behind-the-Scenes:
- The surfing scene, where Snake surfs a massive tidal wave alongside Peter Fonda's character, is one of the film's most memorable (and debated) moments. While it's often criticized for its unrealistic CGI, it's also celebrated for its sheer audacity.
- Kurt Russell performed many of his own stunts in the film, showcasing his dedication to the character of Snake Plissken.
- The film's ending, which sees Snake make a world-altering decision, was a topic of much discussion among fans and critics alike. Carpenter and Russell have both spoken about the ending's significance, hinting at the character's deep-seated disillusionment with society.