Logan's Run

Logan's Run

Year: 1976

Runtime: 119 min

Language: English

Director: Michael Anderson

ActionSci-Fi

In the year 2274, the inhabitants of the City live in a seemingly perfect, pleasure-filled world controlled by advanced technology. Every citizen is granted a life of luxury and indulgence, but with a chilling condition: at the age of 30, they must report to the Carrousel. This ritual is presented as a transition to a new life, but rumors persist of a darker reality hidden within. When Logan 5, a Sandman tasked with hunting down those who attempt to evade their designated end date, discovers he is himself nearing his 30th birthday, he begins to question the system and embarks on a perilous journey to uncover the truth.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Logan's Run 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!

Logan's Run (1976) – Full Plot Summary & Ending Explained

Read the complete plot breakdown of Logan's Run (1976), including all key story events, major twists, and the ending explained in detail. Discover what really happened—and what it all means.

In 2116, amid a dystopian society where the boundaries of mortality are strictly enforced, individuals face a harsh reality: they must relinquish their lives at the tender age of 21. As the clock tolls on this fateful day, they are compelled to enter a CTF Sleepshop, where a euphoric toxic gas leads them to a peaceful end. Each person bears a subtle palm flower crystal, marking their age with vibrant colors—yellow for the young (0-6), transitioning to blue (7-13), then red (14-20), and ultimately flashing ominous red and black as the deadline approaches. Upon turning 21, the crystal takes on a dark hue, signaling the inevitable demise that awaits.

Amidst this grim background, a group of rebels known as Runners bravely resist their preordained fate, seeking refuge in Sanctuary, a legendary place of freedom where they can live outside the oppressive societal confines. Enter Logan 3, a seasoned Deep Sleep Operative, or Sandman, who has been given the grim task of tracking down and eliminating these Runners. Armed with his trusty weapon, commonly referred to as the gun, Logan is aware that it can self-destruct if someone other than its rightful owner attempts to wield it. The Runners live in constant fear of the chilling “Homer” device, which mercilessly tracks their body heat, sparking agony until it claims their lives.

As Logan navigates the harrowing realities of his own Lastday, a profound transformation occurs: he begins to empathize with the Runners, particularly after forming a reluctant alliance with Jessica 6. What sets Jessica apart is her complex nature; initially hostile, she becomes integral to Logan’s metamorphosis. The loss of her brother, Doyle 10, at the hands of a merciless gang of pre-teens known as the Cubs, adds to her depth.

Upon reaching the threshold of their sanctuary, Logan and Jessica encounter Francis, a former Sandman ally. This unexpected meeting reveals deeper truths as Francis, now unveiling himself as Ballard—a crucial figure in their escape—discloses his actual age of 42, cleverly masked by plastic surgeries and a palm flower anomaly that refuses to reveal his age. Driven by a fierce belief that the computer managing global infrastructure under Crazy Horse Mountain is on the brink of failure, Ballard underscores the urgency of their mission.

Ultimately, their hoped-for refuge is not a terrestrial paradise but Argos, a forsaken space colony that has languished near Mars. Logan and Jessica’s escape from their dire circumstances occurs aboard a rocket, departing from a former launch site in Florida, as they leave Ballard behind to ensure that others gain their freedom. As they soar away from their troubled world, the weight of their journey and the sacrifices made begin to take shape, signifying both an end and a new beginning in a realm where life and death transcend their previous definitions.

Last Updated: November 21, 2024 at 10:53

Unlock the Full Story of Logan's Run

Don't stop at just watching — explore Logan's Run 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 Logan's Run is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Logan's Run Timeline

Track the full timeline of Logan's Run with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Logan's Run Timeline

Characters, Settings & Themes in Logan's Run

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Logan's Run. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in Logan's Run

More About Logan's Run

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Logan's Run: 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 Logan's Run

Similar Movies to Logan's Run

Discover movies like Logan's Run 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.