Sol Yurik's 1965 novel, The Warriors, was adapted into a film amidst skepticism from studios regarding its commercial potential. Director Walter Hill faced challenges with Paramount, including creative vision clashes and financial restraints. He initially proposed a cast reflecting the book's minority themes but settled on a universal interracial gang representation. Despite concerns about audience comprehension, Hill's artistic choices, such as seeking Orson Welles for narration, were ultimately unnecessary. Filming in gang-controlled areas of New York added authenticity, leading to the film's unexpected success in a dystopian setting.
Originally, I proposed casting only racial minorities, like in the book, but the studio didn't think that was a commercial idea. Now, the all-interracial gangs made the movie more universal.
I wanted Orson Welles to narrate an introduction... However, the studio didn't want him... I thought the audience wouldn't get the movie without some explanation, but I was completely wrong.
The Warriors operates in a dystopian, slightly futuristic, fantasy dream world. The studio never understood that but audiences got it instantly.
We shot at night in New York areas where gangs ran things. They'd say: You're on our turf and your trucks are fucking up our streets so pay us.
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