From the sight of a police officer this movie depicts the life in New York's infamous South Bronx. In the center is "Fort Apache", as the officers call their police station, which really seems like an outpost in enemy's country. The story follows officer Murphy, who seems to be a tuff cynic, but in truth he's a moralist with a sense for justice.

The experiences of Real life former NYPD Detectives Thomas Mulhearn and Pete Tessitore served as inspiration for the original screenplay. It is reported that Paul Newman spent some time with Mr. Mulhearn, getting into character for Officer Murphy. Thomas and Pete, along with other ex-cops helped add to the authenticity of the experiences documented in ￿Fort Apache the Bronx￿.

Murphy:
What is this, the gunfight at the O.K. Corral?


Finley:
As long as there's cop killers around, pal, I'm gonna be ready.


Murphy:
It don't make no difference how many guns you got. You only got two hands.

Revealing mistakes: Obvious dummy when Murphy and Corelli prevent the transvestite from leaping off the roof.