Escape From New York
Now here is a classic. John Carpenter really knows how to put together a low budget film that people still like. I hear he composes the music himself, so you can usually tell a John Carpenter film simply by the opening soundtrack. They all have that distinctive, relentless beat that we know so well from "Halloween".
The President of the United States crash lands in New York City, which has long since been ringed with walls and closed off as a maximum security prison. Snake gets snookered into going in and trying to rescue the Prez, and he meets all sorts of interesting folks along the way... most of whom want to rob, kill or eat him. Snake has a time limit as well... an implanted bomb to give him incentive.
In any case, this film borders on campy and you really have to appreciate the not-so-subtle social commentary buried in here. The sci-fi stuff is cool, there are plenty of creative fights, and simply see NY in ruins is worth the price of rental. You will recognize many of the stars, who all seem to be enjoying their roles. The Taxi driver is particularly fun, and you will instantly recognize the "President of the United States" as the same actor who had a rather prominent role in Halloween. I guess John likes his style...
To truly appreciate it, be sure to rent the sequel, Escape from LA. They make for a fun evening or popcorn and mayhem.
Enjoy!
Scuttles
