Escape From New York: A VHS Revival and Artistic Reimagining
For those who came of age in the late 20th century, the image of a VHS tape evokes a specific era. A time of video rental stores, rewinding rituals, and the distinct tracking lines that danced across the screen. The grainy, analog charm of VHS is intrinsically linked to the cultural landscape of the 1980s and 90s. Against this backdrop, John Carpenter’s 1981 dystopian masterpiece, Escape From New York, found a fervent audience. The film, starring Kurt Russell as the iconic anti-hero Snake Plissken, transported viewers to a near-future Manhattan Island, transformed into a maximum-security prison. Many cinephiles experienced Plissken’s daring mission to rescue the President for the first time through the familiar lens of a VHS tape.
Now, decades later, a wave of nostalgia is sweeping over the entertainment world. This has been seen in the re-emergence of classic formats, and the enduring appeal of cult films. Escape From New York is experiencing a renaissance, with a unique offering that bridges the gap between past and present. Vice Press, a purveyor of striking movie posters and limited-edition collectibles, has announced the release of not one, but two new VHS versions of Carpenter’s classic.
This isn’t simply a re-release of an old product. Instead, it’s a lovingly crafted homage to a bygone era. These VHS tapes are designed to evoke a sense of wonder in both seasoned fans and new viewers. The release offers a fresh perspective on a film that has stood the test of time.
The first offering is a limited edition of 1,000, encased in a slipcase adorned with entirely new artwork. Phantom City Creative, known for their distinctive and evocative interpretations of film properties, have lent their talents to this project. The result is a visual feast that captures the gritty atmosphere and rebellious spirit of Escape From New York. The tape itself is specially designed, adding to the exclusivity and collectibility of this version. For collectors, and those who appreciate unique packaging, this edition is a must-have.
The second VHS version takes a different approach, celebrating the film’s visual history. This collector’s edition features the original theatrical poster on one side, instantly recognizable to anyone who frequented video stores in the 80s. On the other side, the artwork features a more recent interpretation by Matt Ferguson, a celebrated poster artist known for his modern takes on classic film imagery. This edition represents a dialogue between the past and present. It showcases the enduring legacy of Escape From New York and its continued relevance in contemporary pop culture.
However, there is a crucial caveat for U.S. based collectors. The VHS tapes are encoded in the UK’s PAL format. This means that without a multi-system VCR, American viewers will be unable to play the tapes. While this may disappoint some, it doesn’t diminish the appeal of these releases as collector’s items and visual artifacts. They stand as testament to the enduring power of physical media and the nostalgia it evokes.
For those who appreciate the artistry of movie posters, Vice Press is also releasing a brand-new Phantom City Creative poster alongside the VHS tapes. This artwork, which also graces the limited-edition VHS slipcase, captures the dark and dangerous world of Escape From New York with a contemporary sensibility. The poster is available in both a regular and a variant edition, each measuring 24 x 36 inches. Each edition is limited to 250 prints. This offers collectors the opportunity to own a piece of original artwork inspired by the film.
But the artistic offerings don’t stop there. Vice Press has also collaborated with Matt Ferguson to fully restore and release the iconic original image by Barry E. Jackson. This image, which served as the film’s primary promotional material, is instantly recognizable. It encapsulates the essence of Snake Plissken’s character and the film’s dystopian setting. The restored image is presented as a 27 x 40 lithograph, in a limited edition of 250. For fans of Escape From New York, owning this piece of cinematic history is a truly special opportunity.
All of these coveted items will be available for purchase through the Vice Press website, going on sale at 2 p.m. Eastern Time (6 p.m. Greenwich Mean Time) on Thursday, May 15th. The VHS tapes are priced at £30 each, while the posters range from £40 to £50. Given the limited quantities and the high demand for such collectibles, fans are advised to act quickly to secure their desired items.
The release of these Escape From New York VHS tapes and posters is more than just a commercial venture. It’s a celebration of a cult classic, a nostalgic nod to a bygone era, and a testament to the enduring power of physical media. In a world dominated by digital streaming and fleeting content, these tangible artifacts offer a connection to the past and a reminder of the films that shaped our cultural landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of Escape From New York, these releases offer a unique and compelling way to experience a cinematic masterpiece. The blend of nostalgia, artistry, and collectability is sure to resonate with fans for years to come.
