Escape from New York: The Official Story of the Film

EFNY Cover

Escape from New York: The Official Story of the Film is a comprehensive behind-the-scenes account of the making of the 1981 science fiction film, Escape from New York. Directed by John Carpenter and starring Kurt Russell as the iconic anti-hero Snake Plissken, the film has garnered a cult following for its dystopian portrayal of a future Manhattan turned into a maximum-security prison. This book delves into the creative process behind the film, featuring interviews with the cast and crew, concept art, and insights into the challenges faced during production.

Synopsis

Escape from New York: The Official Story of the Film provides an in-depth look at the genesis of the film, from its initial conception by John Carpenter and co-writer Nick Castle to its release and reception. The book covers various aspects of the film's development, including casting decisions, set design, special effects, and the innovative score composed by Carpenter himself. It also explores the film's themes of surveillance, autonomy, and societal collapse, which have contributed to its status as a seminal work in the science fiction genre.

Key Features

• Interviews: Exclusive interviews with key figures involved in the film, including John Carpenter, Kurt Russell, and other members of the cast and crew.
• Concept Art and Storyboards: A collection of never-before-seen concept art and storyboards, providing insight into the visual development of the film's dystopian world.
• Behind-the-Scenes Photographs: Candid photos from the set, offering a glimpse into the filmmaking process and the challenges faced by the production team.
• Critical Analysis: Essays and analyses from film scholars, examining the impact and legacy of Escape from New York within the broader context of 1980s cinema and science fiction.

Reception

Upon its release, Escape from New York: The Official Story of the Film was praised for its comprehensive coverage and attention to detail. Fans of the film appreciated the depth of information provided about its production, while film historians and scholars valued the book's contributions to the study of genre filmmaking in the late 20th century.

Legacy

The book has become an essential resource for fans of Escape from New York, as well as students and scholars of film studies. Its detailed account of the film's production process and its exploration of the movie's themes have contributed to a deeper understanding of its significance in the science fiction genre.