Zack Snyder to Direct Reimagining of John Carpenter’s *Escape from New York*

StudioCanal confirmed that Zack Snyder will write, direct and co-produce a theatrical remake of John Carpenter’s 1981 dystopian action film *Escape from New York*. The Hollywood Reporter described the project as in its “initial stages.” Production will be handled by Andrew Rona and Alex Heineman of The Picture Company, with Snyder’s Stone Quarry partners Deborah Snyder and Wesley Coller. Carpenter, co-owner of the rights, will serve as executive producer.

Zack Snyder to Direct Escape from New York Remake: Here's What to ExpectZack Snyder to direct new ‘Escape from New York’ movieZack Snyder set to remake John Carpenter's Escape from New YorkInverseZack Snyder To Write And Direct ‘Escape From New York’ ReimaginingRadio Times

Since its 1981 debut, *Escape from New York* has built a cult following and spawned the 1996 sequel *Escape from L.A.* Over three decades, studios and directors—including Len Wiseman, Brett Ratner, Robert Rodriguez and Radio Silence—attempted reboots, but rights shifts stalled each effort. Consolidation of rights under StudioCanal and Carpenter cleared the way for the current adaptation.

Zack Snyder to Direct Escape from New York Remake: Here's What to Expect

Key participants are Zack Snyder (writer, director, producer), John Carpenter (executive producer), Andrew Rona and Alex Heineman (producers, The Picture Company), Deborah Snyder and Wesley Coller (Stone Quarry producers), and Hugh Spearing (StudioCanal executive vice-president, who announced the project at CinemaCon).

Zack Snyder to direct new ‘Escape from New York’ movie

1981 – original film; 1996 – sequel; 2017-2025 – stalled reboot attempts; April 2026 – StudioCanal announced remake at CinemaCon; June 2 2026 – Epicstream confirmed Snyder’s involvement and market-shopping.

Zack Snyder to Direct Escape from New York Remake: Here's What to Expect

The remake joins a wave of 1980s IP revivals, from *Ghostbusters* to *Tron*. Snyder’s fanbase and his promise of a “down and dirty” practical-effects aesthetic contrast with his recent CGI-heavy superhero work, appealing to audiences seeking gritty realism.

Inverse

The Hollywood Reporter said Snyder plans a gritty, practical-effects-driven version, echoing his 2004 *Dawn of the Dead* remake. StudioCanal’s CinemaCon presentation framed the film as a fresh reinterpretation of the cult action classic, targeting a wide theatrical release.

Zack Snyder set to remake John Carpenter's Escape from New York

Wayne Russell, son of original star Kurt Russell, rejected any chance to play Snake Plissken, calling the prospect “career suicide 101” and “That’s like what not to do.” His remarks underscore concerns about recasting an iconic role.

Inverse

The lead actor and release schedule have not been disclosed. Script details and supporting-cast choices remain under negotiation, leaving key creative decisions unresolved as the project moves toward market placement.

Radio Times

• “down and dirty movie,” — The Hollywood Reporter

Zack Snyder set to remake John Carpenter's Escape from New York

• “career suicide 101,” — Wayne Russell, actor

Inverse

• “That's like what not to do,” — Wayne Russell, actor

Inverse

The team will shop the film to distributors in the coming weeks, finalize casting, and begin principal photography later in 2026. Snyder’s post-production work on *The Last Photograph* continues, after which his focus will shift to the *Escape from New York* remake.

Zack Snyder to Direct Escape from New York Remake: Here's What to Expect