Assault on Precinct 13

Assault on Precinct 13

Year: 1976

Runtime: 91 min

Language: English

Director: John Carpenter

actionthrillercrime

During a severe winter storm, a transport bus carrying convicts crashes near Detroit’s Precinct 13, forcing them to seek shelter within the station. Cut off from the outside world and with communication lines down, Sergeant Jake (Ethan Hawke) finds himself in a tense situation. He must work together with the very criminals he's supposed to guard to defend the precinct from a relentless and escalating attack by a dangerous gang.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Assault on Precinct 13 yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – Assault on Precinct 13 (1976)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Assault on Precinct 13 (1976). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Modern Day

The film takes place in contemporary times, reflecting the real-life issues of gang violence and police confrontations that plague many urban areas. This setting provides a stark contrast between the innocent lives affected by crime and the harsh realities faced by law enforcement.

Location

South-Central Los Angeles, Anderson precinct

South-Central Los Angeles serves as the gritty backdrop for the film, known for its high crime rates and gang activity. The decommissioned Anderson precinct is a central location where characters face their greatest challenges and confrontations amidst chaos.

🏙️ City 🚔 Police Station

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:24

Main Characters – Assault on Precinct 13 (1976)

Meet the key characters of Assault on Precinct 13 (1976), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Lieutenant Ethan Bishop

Bishop is a determined and resourceful officer thrust into an intense situation. His leadership skills are put to the test as he strives to protect the precinct and its few remaining staff from encroaching violence. He showcases both bravery and moral complexity throughout the crisis.

👮‍♂️ Police Officer 🦸‍♂️ Hero 💪 Resilient

Leigh

Leigh is a strong and courageous secretary who faces the unfolding chaos with grit. Despite being caught in the crossfire, she remains determined to assist Bishop and fight for survival, embodying resilience in the face of overwhelming fear.

👩‍💼 Secretary 💪 Brave 🩹 Injured

Napoleon Wilson

Napoleon is a convicted murderer whose presence in the precinct adds tension and complicates the dynamics. Despite his criminal background, he emerges as a pivotal character, showcasing unexpected allyship and providing a moral conundrum for Bishop as they face the gang together.

👨‍⚖️ Criminal ⚔️ Ally ⚖️ Moral Dilemma

Kathy's Father (Lawson)

Lawson is driven by grief and vengeance after the tragic loss of his daughter. His character illustrates the deep emotional turmoil caused by gang violence, leading him to a path of retribution that highlights the personal impact of crime.

😢 Grieving 🔫 Avenger ⏳ Father

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:24

Major Themes – Assault on Precinct 13 (1976)

Explore the central themes of Assault on Precinct 13 (1976), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Revenge

Revenge permeates the narrative as the gang members vow to retaliate against the police for the loss of their own. The tragic cycle of violence is highlighted through various character actions and the devastating consequences that unfold, emphasizing the futility of revenge.

⚖️ Justice

The theme of justice is prominent, particularly through the character of Lieutenant Ethan Bishop. His struggle to uphold the law in the face of overwhelming violence showcases the complexities of morality and the pursuit of justice in a chaotic environment.

🚷 Survival

Survival becomes a critical theme as the characters navigate through a night of harrowing encounters. Each character's instincts and choices reflect the desperate measures taken to survive amid life-threatening circumstances, culminating in a fight for their lives.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:24

Unlock the Full Story of Assault on Precinct 13

Don't stop at just watching — explore Assault on Precinct 13 in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Assault on Precinct 13 is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Assault on Precinct 13 Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Assault on Precinct 13, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Assault on Precinct 13 Summary

Assault on Precinct 13 Timeline

Track the full timeline of Assault on Precinct 13 with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Assault on Precinct 13 Timeline

More About Assault on Precinct 13

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Assault on Precinct 13: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Assault on Precinct 13

Similar Movies to Assault on Precinct 13

Discover movies like Assault on Precinct 13 that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.