Escape from New York (1981)

Synopsis

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.

Watch the trailer

Where to watch

Stream

• Amazon Prime Video
• Philo
• Criterion Channel
• Amazon Prime Video with Ads
• MovieSphere+ Amazon Channel
• Howdy Amazon Channel

Rent

• Amazon Video
• Apple TV Store
• Google Play Movies
• YouTube
• Fandango At Home

Streaming availability via JustWatch

Cast

• Kurt Russell as Snake Plissken
• Lee Van Cleef as Police Commissioner Bob Hauk
• Ernest Borgnine as Cabbie
• Donald Pleasence as President of the United States
• Isaac Hayes as The Duke of New York
• Season Hubley as Girl in Chock Full O'Nuts
• Harry Dean Stanton as Harold 'Brain' Helman
• Adrienne Barbeau as Maggie
• Tom Atkins as Rehme
• Charles Cyphers as Secretary of State

If you liked Escape from New York, try

• The Avengers
• Insidious: Chapter 3
• Terminator 2: Judgment Day
• The Terminator
• Protector
• John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum
• Looper
• Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines

BingeNext's take

If you’re in the mood for a gritty, fast-paced action thriller with a sci-fi edge, Escape from New York is a solid pick. Set in a grim future where Manhattan is a giant prison filled with dangerous criminals, the film follows Snake Plissken, a tough war hero played by Kurt Russell, who has just 24 hours to rescue the US president after a crash landing. The movie feels intense and claustrophobic, with a raw energy that keeps you on the edge of your seat. It’s perfect for fans of classic 80s action and those who like their heroes a bit rough around the edges. With a runtime just over an hour and a half, it’s a quick dive into a dystopian world that’s both thrilling and a little wild. If you enjoyed movies like The Terminator or Terminator 2, this one fits right in with that vibe.