Firebird 2015 A.D. (1981)

Firebird 2015 A.D. Poster

In one of many unpopular and unsupported policy decisions, the US government of the near future outlaws vehicle petrol in an effort to curb the overuse of limited natural resources - except, of course, for official purposes. There are many renegades who oppose the authorities, and will stop at nothing to allow themselves the freedom of burning around the countryside.

Introduction
"Firebird 2015 A.D". is a dystopian action movie from 1981 directed by David M. Robertson. The film presents a post-apocalyptic narrative where gasoline becomes an important and extremely desirable resource. The film stars Darren McGavin, Doug McClure, and Richard Lynch.

Setting and context
The film is set in an undefined future, 2015, where the government has actually banned privately-owned cars and trucks for the purpose of conserving fuel. People are now subject to government-controlled travel methods. However, the outlaw environment triggers some rebellious citizens' group, most significantly the chauffeurs of Firebirds-- a particular model of a muscle automobile-- who've become the brand-new criminals, widely hunted by the government.

Main characters and narrative
McGavin plays the function of a dystopian law enforcer, Sheriff Judd, an authoritarian figure charged with maintaining the ban against private cars. He firmly believes in the federal government's cause and is unyielding in his pursuit of law offenders, particularly those who dare to drive Firebirds. Constable Judd's primary enemy turns out to be a Firebird motorist, Ken Andrew, portrayed by Doug McClure. Ken lives below the radar, providing himself as a peaceful farmer by day and a defiant driver by night.

The private vehicle drives at night are fueled by thrill, risk, and desperation, more complicating the clash between Ken and Sheriff Judd. Each celebration's commitment to their respective causes is checked when the stunning and rebellious Skyler is introduced, played by Cindy Williams. Skyler is the owner of the last Firebird and ends up being a valuable ally to Ken, worsening Sheriff Judd's pursuit.

Tension and climax
The narrative tension builds as more chauffeurs get pulled into this underground rebellion, with high-speed chases after and conflicts amongst the motorists, Sheriff Judd, and federal government enforcers being the order of the day. At some time, Ken becomes a symbolic figure for the disobedience, driving not only for his survival but for the liberty of all residents oppressed by federal government control.

The film concludes with a high-stakes showdown in between Ken and Sheriff Judd. Skyler is kidnapped by the law enforcement agency in a desperate attempt to draw Ken out. Ken needs to conserve Skyler, stand against the government, and fight for the rights of individuals to own and drive vehicles.

Conclusion
"Firebird 2015 A.D". delivers a dystopian perspective of a world with strict government control, where people are driven to rebellion and criminals doing their finest to guarantee their liberties. The movie brings out the extremes of both, the federal government's engaging need to manage resources and individuals's defiant impulses to ensure their liberties. It's a wild flight from start to complete, powered by fast vehicles, government pursuers, and rebellious drivers-refusing to surrender their passion for driving, regardless of the law. The movie provides a distinct point of view on government control, citizen disobedience, and the unlikely heroes born out of a post-apocalyptic story.

Top Cast

  • Darren McGavin (small)
    Darren McGavin
    Red
  • Doug McClure (small)
    Doug McClure
    McVain
  • George Touliatos (small)
    George Touliatos
    Indy
  • Robert Wisden (small)
    Robert Wisden
    Cam
  • Mary Beth Rubens (small)
    Mary Beth Rubens
    Jill
  • Barbara Williams (small)
    Barbara Williams
    Shana
  • Alex Diakun (small)
    Alex Diakun
    Dolan
  • Lee Broker
    Saunders
  • Frank Pellegrino (small)
    Frank Pellegrino
    Chance
  • Bill Berry (small)
    Bill Berry
    Burner
  • Tony Sharpe
    Senator Curtis