Nighthawks, released in 1981, is an American neo-noir action crime drama film directed by Bruce Malmuth and starring Sylvester Stallone, Billy Dee Williams, and Rutger Hauer. The film combines elements of action and suspense, focusing on the efforts of New York City police officers as they confront a dangerous international terrorist.
The plot centers around Detective Sergeant Deke DaSilva (Sylvester Stallone) and his partner Detective Sergeant Matthew Fox (Billy Dee Williams), who are transferred to a newly formed anti-terrorist unit known as ATAC (Anti-Terrorist Action Command). The story begins with a series of violent incidents in New York City, including a bombing carried out by a European terrorist named Wulfgar (Rutger Hauer). Wulfgar is a cunning and ruthless figure who poses a significant threat to public safety.
As the narrative unfolds, DaSilva and Fox must navigate the complexities of their new roles while dealing with the personal challenges in their lives. DaSilva is portrayed as a dedicated cop struggling with his estranged marriage, while Fox grapples with the pressures of their high-stakes job. Their investigation leads them into a cat-and-mouse game with Wulfgar, who continues to execute his plans for terror in the city.
The film features intense action sequences, including shootouts in nightclubs and subways, as well as a dramatic climax involving hostages taken during a tram hijacking. The tension escalates as DaSilva and Fox race against time to thwart Wulfgar's plans and protect innocent lives. The film explores themes of duty, sacrifice, and the psychological toll of law enforcement work.
Nighthawks received mixed reviews upon its release but has since gained recognition for its performances, particularly Stallone's portrayal of DaSilva and Hauer's chilling depiction of Wulfgar. The film grossed approximately $19.9 million at the box office against a budget of $5 million.
Overall, Nighthawks stands out as an engaging entry in the action genre of the early 1980s, blending crime drama with elements of thriller and character-driven storytelling. Its exploration of terrorism and the challenges faced by law enforcement remains relevant in contemporary discussions about security and public safety.