Retro Review: The Warriors (1979)

Everything old is new again, or so it seems. In Retro Review, our resident film buffs take a dive into a movie classic -- and tell us why it worked then, and whether it still works now. Daniel Allen reviews The Warriors, a true cult classic largely hidden.

The movie 

A cult classic film based on a 1965 novel of the same name, written by Sol Yurick, follows an ensemble cast on a high-paced crime action escapade. Directed by Walter Hill, the action thriller takes our characters on a journey through a fictionalised version of New York City, filled with gang violence and lawlessness, visually and stylistically similar to the sets of Taxi Driver (1976) & The Joker (2019), based on late 70’s early 80’s New York City.  

Who’s in it? And do I know them? 

Michael Beck leads as ’Swan’, the leader of the warriors, known for roles in Xanadu (1980) & Megaforce  (1982).

James Remar plays ’Ajax’, a member of the Warriors gang. Remar would lead alongside Eddie Murphy in the action/comedy 48 Hours. (1982), would feature in the hit TV show Dexter (2006-2013) and other smaller roles in film and stage. 

Dorsey Wright plays ‘Cleon’, a member of the gang, known for roles in Hair (1979) & The Hotel New  Hampshire (1984).

Deborah Van Valkenburgh played ‘Mercy’ and would later have roles in film in Streets of Fire (1984) & a recurring role in the TV series Too Close for Comfort (1980-85).

David Patrick Kelly plays the lead antagonist as ‘Luther’ with arguably the most memorable performance of the film. Kelly would later have smaller roles in Season 2 of Twin Peaks (1990) & Succession (2018-23). The iconic ‘’waaaarriooorrrs’’ line from the film has become bigger than the film itself, being referenced in all matters of media, even becoming a home team chant for the Golden State Warriors of the NBA.  

Michael Beck (left) has to get through a gang-infested New York City to clear his name. (Image: Supplied)

What’s it about, and why did it work then? 

The warriors, a street gang, are framed for the murder of Cyrus, a gang leader highly respected by all of the gangs of New York. This sets the stage for a high-paced pace energetic thriller, with the story following the warriors' race to return to their territory and clear their names. Meanwhile, rival gangs hunt the Warriors down as a thrumming soundtrack sets the pace. Scored by the great Joe Walsh, the upbeat tempo and explosive sounds of the electric guitar and keyboards match the tone perfectly throughout the film, with ambient sections blending into the fast-paced sequences.

The action is very enjoyable through the film with seamless stunts and fight choreography that looks natural and does some unique things with the set pieces of train stations, bathrooms, parks and other areas. The film, without any big names, failed to attract audiences in large numbers, rendering only $22 million at the box office; however, it maintained a cult following throughout the years.  Ultimately, due to the film's violence and the way audiences were captured by the style of New York's killer gangs, Paramount ceased advertising the film as theatres showing The Warriors saw copycat gang fights, scaring off viewers.

Does it work now? 

Yes, the fight scenes, which are a major part of the film, still look great. A lot of films use editing to save time and money, but not this movie. The melees from the baseball bats swinging to the punches thrown are still on par with modern films, with a more authentic feel. The film, with its cult following, has made its way into popular culture, being parodied or referenced in movies and TV shows, The Simpsons, Regular Show, Bob’s Burgers and most recently in John Wick 4 (2023). The unique style of the Warriors stands out amongst films of its time, and even now, for its stylised depiction of gang culture and thematic gang uniforms. Despite a small budget of $4 million, it doesn't look cheap or tacky, and punches well above its weight.

David Patrick Kelly (centre) delivers an unforgettable performance as 'Luther'. (Image: Supplied)

Do I need to see it? 

Yes, definitely a fun watch with over the top action, quotable lines and an overall enjoyable story that is easy to follow yet still entertaining. Although the cast are largely unknown to this current generation, they still give memorable performances and offer a fun and edgy depiction of gang culture. The main character's teenage age has created a somewhat coming-of-age quality -- think of a violent John Hughes movie with a Blues Brothers soundtrack in a dystopian New York City.

8/10

Soak up the ambience of a (maybe soon-to-be) dystopian America, overrun by stylish cliques. (Image: Supplied)