Maniac Cop

Maniac Cop

Year: 1988

Runtime: 85 min

Language: English

Director: William Lustig

ActionMysteryHorrorCrime

A former police officer, presumed dead, mysteriously returns with a relentless desire for vengeance. Matthew Cordell resumes his terrifying campaign of violence against New York City, leaving a trail of bloodshed in his wake. Now, a determined officer named Jack Forrest must battle his own inner struggles while trying to stop the resurrected killer and prevent further devastation.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Maniac Cop 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 – Maniac Cop (1988)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Maniac Cop (1988). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1980s

Set in the 1980s, this period is marked by heightened crime rates and societal unrest in urban environments. It captures the essence of a time when the public's trust in law enforcement was waning, as fears about corruption and violence from within the police force began to surface. The decade's cultural and social dynamics influence the movie's narrative and character motivations.

Location

Manhattan, Park Square, Docks

The movie primarily takes place in Manhattan, a bustling metropolis known for its iconic skyline and vibrant nightlife. Key locations include a park square where a horrific crime occurs and the docks, which serve as the climax of the intense final showdown. The city's atmosphere amplifies the tension and fear, making it a fitting backdrop for a tale of terror and revenge.

🏙️ City 🌊 Water

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:56

Main Characters – Maniac Cop (1988)

Meet the key characters of Maniac Cop (1988), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Frank McCrae (Tom Atkins)

Frank McCrae is a seasoned detective who is deeply troubled by his past and the recent spate of murders. He embodies a sense of duty but grapples with the reality of his profession as he uncovers the truth behind the maniac cop. His character serves as a moral compass in a chaotic world, determined to seek justice despite personal demons.

🕵️‍♂️ Detective 🔍 Investigator

Jack Forrest (Bruce Campbell)

Jack Forrest is an NYPD officer caught in a web of accusations and marital strife. His character is defined by his desire to clear his name and protect his wife, showcasing his loyalty and determination. As events unfold, he transforms from a wrongfully accused man to a key player in the fight against the true villain, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity.

👮‍♂️ Cop 💔 Husband

Matt Cordell (Robert Z'Dar)

Matt Cordell is the menacing figure at the heart of the horror, a former cop who returns from the grave to seek vengeance. His character represents the monstrous aspect of the justice system gone wrong, acting as a tragic figure whose desire for revenge stems from betrayal and a thirst for justice. His presence instills fear, embodying the chaos that ensues throughout the film.

👻 Undead ⚖️ Avenger

Commissioner Pike (Richard Roundtree)

Commissioner Pike is an authoritative figure who dismisses the idea of mental evaluations for police officers, reflecting a troubling lack of accountability. His character adds tension to the narrative, representing the bureaucratic resistance to addressing issues within the police force. Pike's decisions play a crucial role in the unfolding chaos as fear grips the city.

👮‍♂️ Leader ⚖️ Authority

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:56

Major Themes – Maniac Cop (1988)

Explore the central themes of Maniac Cop (1988), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🔪 Vengeance

Vengeance plays a central role in 'Maniac Cop,' as the narrative revolves around the wrongfully imprisoned Matt Cordell seeking retribution against those who betrayed him. The theme explores the consequences of past injustices and the cycle of violence that ensues. It raises questions about morality and the boundaries of justice within law enforcement.

👮‍♂️ Corruption

Corruption within the police force is a critical theme highlighted throughout the film. The seemingly trustworthy officers are revealed to be capable of heinous acts, contributing to a sense of paranoia and mistrust in the community. The film critiques the very institutions meant to protect, showcasing the dark side of power dynamics within law enforcement.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:56

Unlock the Full Story of Maniac Cop

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

Maniac Cop Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Maniac Cop, 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.

Maniac Cop Summary

Maniac Cop Timeline

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

Maniac Cop Timeline

More About Maniac Cop

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Maniac Cop: 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 Maniac Cop

Similar Movies to Maniac Cop

Discover movies like Maniac Cop 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.