July 10: Escape from New York (1981)

Milestone Years

• 45th Anniversary: July 10, 2026
• 50th Anniversary: July 10, 2031
• 75th Anniversary: July 10, 2056

Inspiration Behind the Movie

John Carpenter was inspired by 1970s distrust of government, Watergate scandals, and urban decay, imagining a future where Manhattan becomes a prison state. Snake Plissken, the antihero, was crafted as a reaction to cynical action icons of the time.

You Might Not Know

• Kurt Russell based Snake’s voice on Clint Eastwood’s Man with No Name.
• Filmed in East St. Louis after a devastating fire made it look post-apocalyptic.
• The movie’s budget was under $7 million but became a cult hit.
• Jamie Lee Curtis provided the film’s opening narration uncredited.
• Snake’s eyepatch was Kurt Russell’s idea, adding to the character’s mystery.

Food Ideas

• “Snake Bite” spicy chicken wings
• Blackout Manhattan cocktails
• Prison-style chili with cornbread
• Graffiti cupcakes with edible spray paint
• Ration-pack trail mix snacks

Ways to Celebrate

• Host a dystopian movie marathon with other ‘80s sci-fi classics
• Dress up as Snake Plissken for a themed watch party
• Create an Escape Room game inspired by the movie
• Craft DIY eyepatches as party favors
• Play the soundtrack during your gathering

Filming Locations

Filming took place mainly in East St. Louis, Illinois, which was used for its burned-out cityscape. Some scenes were shot in Los Angeles and New York for key backdrops. The city remains a cult filming landmark for fans today.