The Fugitive (1993)
Wrongfully convicted of murdering his wife and sentenced to death, Richard Kimble escapes from the law in an attempt to find the real killer and clear his name.
Details
Budget
$44,000,000
Rating
8/10 (4342 votes)
Status
Released
Production Companies
Warner Bros. Pictures
About The Fugitive
Released in 1993, "The Fugitive" is an action thriller that draws from the earlier television series. It chronicles the ordeal of Dr. Richard Kimble, played by Harrison Ford, who is falsely accused of his wife's murder. After his conviction and subsequent escape, Kimble embarks on a mission to locate the true killer and clear his name, all while being relentlessly pursued by U.S. Marshal Samuel Gerard, portrayed by Tommy Lee Jones.
The film distinguishes itself through its mix of intense chase sequences and a developing mystery. It moves from initial high-energy action, including a bus and train wreck and a notable dam sequence, into a measured cat-and-mouse game. This shift allows the narrative to evolve beyond simple pursuit, becoming a story of investigation and suspense as Kimble works to uncover a conspiracy that led to his framing.
"The Fugitive" received positive reception, indicated by its box office performance and critical scores. Its blend of drama, action, and thriller elements, combined with strong lead performances, contributed to its success, making it a recognized entry in 1990s cinema.
Why you might be searching for The Fugitive
Many people are searching for specific memorable moments from the film, including scenes of characters hiding or escaping, particular lines of dialogue, or broader plot points like the theme of being falsely accused.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer describes the film as a top-tier crime thriller, noting its foundation in the 1960s TV series and praising the performances by Harrison Ford and Tommy Lee Jones.
Read the full reviewThe same review highlights the film's first 40 minutes for its action sequences, specifically mentioning an exhilarating bus and train wreck followed by a "phenomenal dam sequence" that captivates the viewer.
Read the full reviewAnother critic describes Harrison Ford's character, Dr. Kimble, as an acclaimed surgeon who finds himself in a prison van after being wrongly convicted of his wife's murder, leading to his eventual escape.
Read the full reviewThis reviewer also points out that while the local police might believe all escapees are accounted for, U.S. Marshal Gerard, played by Tommy Lee Jones, quickly realizes Kimble has escaped and begins his persistent pursuit.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
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You can stream "The Fugitive" on Netflix. It's also available to rent or buy on platforms like Amazon Video, Apple TV, and Fandango At Home. Physical copies on DVD and Blu-ray can be purchased from retailers such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
"The Fugitive" (1993 film) is based on the 1960s TV series of the same name. The TV series itself was loosely inspired by the trial of Sam Sheppard.
In the film's climax, Dr. Richard Kimble confronts Dr. Charles Nichols, revealing Nichols was responsible for tampering with drug trial results and ordering Kimble's wife's murder to cover it up. Kimble saves Deputy Gerard from Nichols, who is then arrested along with Sykes, the one-armed man. Kimble is then cleared of his wife's murder.
Critics and audiences generally view "The Fugitive" favorably. It holds a 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with an average score of 8.10/10, and audiences gave it an "A+" CinemaScore.