The Verdict
"Its many imitators (and sequels) have never come close to matching the taut thrills of the definitive holiday action classic."
Movie Review and Other Insights
Die Hard is a visionary Action, Mystery & Thriller film directed by the acclaimed John McTiernan (Lawrence Gordon). Released in theaters on Jul 15, 1988, Wide, this cinematic experience offers a fresh take on the classic narrative. Produced by Gordon Company and distributed by 20th Century Fox, the film features a runtime of 2h 12m.
The story follows new York City policeman John McClane (Bruce Willis) is visiting his estranged wife (Bonnie Bedelia) on Christmas Eve. He joins her at a holiday party in the headquarters of the Japanese-owned business she works for. But the festivities are interrupted by a group of terrorists who take over the exclusive high-rise, and everyone in it. Very soon McClane realizes that there's no one to save the hostages -- but him. Leading the cast are star performers John McTiernan, Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman, who bring depth and intensity to their roles.
Rated R , Die Hard delivers a Dolby Stereo audio experience presented in a 70mm aspect ratio. Critics have praised the film, stating: "Its many imitators (and sequels) have never come close to matching the taut thrills of the definitive holiday action classic."
Images
Cast & Crew
Critic Reviews
"That’s right, I’m saying it, loudly and proudly, since John McTiernan’s 1988 action classic isn’t just set at Christmastime—it embodies the very spirit of the holiday."
"It's a glorious scene-stealer for Alan Rickman, though it's a credit to Willis's cheeky charisma that his scene is not in fact stolen."
"Die Hard is film's equivalent of a terrorist attack on your senses, but Willis' intensity and presence push it into guilty pleasure territory."
"It's stupid yet engrossingly directed for jolts by John McTiernan."
"One of the best Christmas movies ever made. Yes Christmas movies..."
"Nothing lasts forever... except for this cinematic party that keeps welcoming us to one of the best action and christmas movies ever. [Full Review in Spanish]"
Audience Reviews
What a joy ride of a movie. Willis and Rickman are priceless.
Amazing theater, amazing Christmas watch.
It’s a Christmas movie. And Clay, Bill Clay.
Yippie kai aye m efers.
Best Christmas movie ever! so glad I got to see it in the theaters
The greatest Christmas Movie/Not Christmas Movie of all time.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Die Hard released?
Die Hard hit theaters on Jul 15, 1988, Wide. It became available for streaming on Sep 2, 2014.
How long is the movie and what is the genre?
The film has a runtime of 2h 12m. It falls under the Action, Mystery & Thriller genre, featuring a sound mix in Dolby Stereo.
Who is the director of Die Hard?
The movie is directed by John McTiernan. The script was penned by Roderick Thorp, Jeb Stuart, Steven E. de Souza.
Who are the main actors in Die Hard?
The top billed cast includes:
- John McTiernan as Director
- Bruce Willis as John McClane
- Alan Rickman as Hans Gruber
- Bonnie Bedelia as Holly Gennero McClane
- Reginald VelJohnson as Sgt. Al Powell
Why is Die Hard rated R?
It is rated R
Which studio produced the movie?
Die Hard was produced by Gordon Company and distributed worldwide by 20th Century Fox.
About the movie
NEWNew York City policeman John McClane (Bruce Willis) is visiting his estranged wife (Bonnie Bedelia) on Christmas Eve. He joins her at a holiday party in the headquarters of the Japanese-owned business she works for. But the festivities are interrupted by a group of terrorists who take over the exclusive high-rise, and everyone in it. Very soon McClane realizes that there's no one to save the hostages -- but him.
- Director
- John McTiernan
- Producers
- Lawrence Gordon, Joel Silver
- Screenwriter
- Roderick Thorp, Jeb Stuart, Steven E. de Souza
- Distributor
- 20th Century Fox
- Production
- Gordon Company
- Genre
- Action, Mystery & Thriller
- Release Date
- Jul 15, 1988, Wide
- Run Time
- 2h 12m
- Rating
- R
- Sound Mix
- Dolby Stereo
- Aspect Ratio
- 70mm