Not as iconic as Escape from New York, but still has some fun moments hidden behind pretty awful 90s-era visual effects.

| Original Score: 2.5/4 | Sep 8, 2023

This time around, Russell seems uncomfortable in the part–a cartoon of a cartoon–but the production design by Blade Runner’s Lawrence G. Paull is so attractive and inventive that this is probably Carpenter’s most visually impressive feature.

| Jun 14, 2022

If viewers focus on what Carpenter is trying to say, as opposed to the half-hearted method in which he tries to say it, Escape from L.A. becomes a guilty pleasure and thought-provoking look at Carpenter’s worldview.

| Original Score: 3/4 | Jun 8, 2022

At least audiences never had to sit through any more urban-centered follow-ups, be it Escape from Miami, Escape from Chicago, or even Escape from Woonsocket, Rhode Island.

| Original Score: 2/4 | Feb 27, 2022

If you have never seen this sequel, I suggest you dont compare it to Escape from New York, because they are as different as the two movies could be.

| Original Score: 3/5 | Feb 25, 2022

If you feel similarly and have been jonesing for a chance to revisit Carpenters L.A., I only recommend that you wait until Paramount fixes the audio. Only then would this be a solid recommendation.

| Original Score: 3.5/5 | Feb 23, 2022

A slam-bang sequel with a brazenly nihilistic sense of humor.

| Feb 21, 2022

...its CGI is frankly cartoonish, while the composites that make up that surfboard ride down Wilshire Boulevard are...unconvincing...

| Original Score: 2/4 | Feb 18, 2022

Some of the numerous, offbeat personas bring welcome diversity, while others only help to make things more uncomfortably bizarre.

| Original Score: 5/10 | Sep 11, 2020

A slightly underwhelming sequel to the great Escape from New York. But not without its cheesy only-in-the-1990s charm.

| Original Score: 2.5/5 | Apr 20, 2020

Themes of rebellion, anarchy, freedom of speech, and the threat of corruption run through many of Carpenter's works. And Escape From L.A. seems to have been Carpenter's opportunity to pull out all the stops.

| Apr 10, 2020

Had this film come out 14 years ago, it would probably still be a late-night video treat, rather than looking a mite tired.

| Nov 28, 2017

| Original Score: C+ | Sep 7, 2011

Violent, semi-spoofy action sequel is too dark for kids.

| Original Score: 2/5 | Dec 14, 2010

...for all its commotion, the movie never catches fire.

| Original Score: 5/10 | May 3, 2010

"Escape from L.A." finds Carpenter in a playful mood.

| Original Score: B | Jul 30, 2007

In a summer filled with giant duds like Independence Day or The Rock or Chain Reaction, this is the best testosterone action flick of the season.

| Jun 23, 2007

A dreadful belated sequel to the entertaining Escape From New York. Perfectly epitomizes how Carpenter's skills have eroded since his late '70s, early '80s heyday.

Full Review | Original Score: 2/10 | Jan 23, 2006

| Original Score: C | Apr 9, 2005

Diverting for the 100 minutes it runs, but once they're up, it is instantly forgettable.

| Original Score: 2.5/4 | Dec 11, 2004