As John Carpenter's action classic "Escape from New York" marks its 40th anniversary, actress Adrienne Barbeau, who portrayed Maggie in the film, shares insights into her experience playing a key role in the dystopian thriller. Released on July 10, 1981, the movie presented a unique vision of a future where Manhattan is transformed into a maximum security prison.
Barbeau, known for her work on Broadway and in Norman Lear's TV series "Maude," wasn't an obvious choice for the role of Maggie, the lone female character in the film. Having made her feature debut in Carpenter's "The Fog" a year earlier, she brought a fresh perspective to the action and horror genres.
At the time, neither Barbeau nor Kurt Russell, who starred as Snake Plissken, were recognized as action stars. Barbeau acknowledges that her journey into horror began with Carpenter, and her association with the director led to her being dubbed a "scream queen."
Reflecting on her role, Barbeau mentions the unique casting choices Carpenter made, assembling a vibrant cast of character actors alongside Russell. The film's gripping narrative, set in a future where Russell's character must rescue the President after a crash on the isolated Manhattan, became a defining moment in both their careers.
Barbeau's reminiscence includes details about her introduction to horror movies, including the night of her engagement announcement to Carpenter on "The Tonight Show," followed by the first screening of "Halloween." This experience marked the beginning of her association with the horror genre and Carpenter.
Interestingly, Barbeau shares that a young J.J. Abrams played a role in changing the ending of "Escape from New York." As a teenager, Abrams had written a letter to Carpenter suggesting an alternate ending, which the director appreciated and implemented. This anecdote showcases the unexpected ways in which creative collaborations can transcend generational boundaries, making "Escape from New York" a timeless piece of cinematic history.
