Is Die Hard a Christmas movie? The definitive answer
Is ‘Die Hard’ a Christmas Movie?
The Silly Debate That Became a Seasonal Tradition
Let’s settle this once and for all – there’s no definitive answer to the question of whether “Die Hard” is a Christmas movie. But before you dismiss this as clickbait, hear me out. As a certified Gen X cultural sherpa, I’ll take you on a journey through the fascinating backstory of this debate. And trust me, there’s a surprising twist involving ”Die Hard’s” connection to a beloved Christmas film that will blow your mind at holiday parties.
One thing that always bothered me about the “Is ‘Die Hard’ a Christmas movie?” discussion is why it only focuses on “Die Hard.” In the ’80s, a decade filled with iconic action films, there were others set during Christmas. Take ”Lethal Weapon,” for example, released just over a year before “Die Hard.” While not as beloved, it was a mega-hit and undeniably set during the holiday season.
Both “Die Hard” and “Lethal Weapon” had something in common – they were produced by Joel Silver. According to Steven de Souza, one of the original screenwriters of “Die Hard,” Silver liked setting his movies during Christmas to ensure they would be played on television every December. And he was right!
Interestingly, “Die Hard” was based on a 1979 pulp novel called “Nothing Lasts Forever” by Roderick Thorp. The book was actually a sequel to Thorp’s 1966 novel “The Detective,” which was made into a movie starring Frank Sinatra. So Bruce Willis’ performance in “Die Hard” can be seen as a continuation of Sinatra’s character.
While liberties were taken in adapting the novel, the Christmas setting remained. The twenty-four hours between Christmas Eve and Christmas morning provided the backdrop for the story. And Hollywood couldn’t resist the formula – Shane Black, the screenwriter of “Lethal Weapon,” went on to create more action films set during Christmas.
It’s worth mentioning that in 1991, Black wrote “The Last Boy Scout,” starring Bruce Willis. While not explicitly a Christmas movie, it had a scene with a Christmas reference. The trend of action films set during Christmas was definitely noticeable.
So, is “Die Hard” a Christmas movie? The answer is still up for debate. But one thing is for sure – it’s become a holiday tradition to discuss and argue about it. And that’s what makes it so much fun!
Mel Gibson Suggests a Christmas Action Film
Mel Gibson, in an interview with E! News, jokingly suggested setting an action film at Christmas, complete with snow, catchy songs, and music to kill by. But his comment raises an interesting point – the emotional warmth and message of peace associated with Christmas can create a striking contrast in action movies. In recent years, we’ve seen action films fully embrace Christmas themes, like “Violent Night,” John Woo’s revenge film “Silent Night,” and the absurd “Fatman,” where Gibson himself plays a Santa Claus fighting off a hitman hired by a disappointed 12-year-old.
Die Hard: A Christmas Movie?
Director John McTiernan, known for “Die Hard,” once revealed that the movie wasn’t intended to be a Christmas film. However, the joy it brought turned it into one. McTiernan compared it to the Pottersville sequence in “It’s a Wonderful Life,” highlighting the criticism of unregulated war capitalism. But let’s not forget that McTiernan’s own legal troubles raise some eyebrows when it comes to his commentary on politics and power.
The Cliché of “Die Hard”
While the Christmas backdrop of “Die Hard” is often discussed, the most cliché aspect of the film is its plot device – one man trapped in a confined space taking down bad guys one by one. This concept has been endlessly copied, like Steven Seagal’s battleship version of “Die Hard” and Jean-Claude Van Damme’s lone firefighter battling terrorists in a hockey arena. In fact, “Die Hard” rip-offs were so common in the ’90s that comedian Dennis Miller joked about it.
The Uncredited “Die Hard” Rip-Off
One of the most obvious “Die Hard” rip-offs from that era is rarely acknowledged as such – “Home Alone.” While it’s a family comedy with a different tone, the plot follows the same formula: a person alone in a building on Christmas defending against criminals with clever traps. It’s clear that “Home Alone” owes a debt to “Die Hard,” and it’s interesting to note that both films were released just two years apart.
Without “Die Hard,” there would be no “Home Alone.” Screenwriter John Hughes likely heard the phrase “Die Hard, but for kids” during the pitch meeting and saw the potential. It’s worth mentioning that Hughes had just written “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” the year before, making him the only filmmaker to create two classic Christmas films back-to-back.
Is Die Hard a Christmas Movie?
Have you ever wondered if “Die Hard” is a Christmas movie? Well, here’s a mind-blowing theory for you. Let’s dive into the extended “Die Hard”/”Home Alone” universe and explore the connection between these two iconic films.
In “Home Alone,” Catherine O’Hara portrays Kevin’s mother, while Bonnie Bedelia plays Holly Gennaro McClane in “Die Hard.” Now, imagine if we consider the fact that both actresses have red hair as more than just a coincidence. What if we dare to imagine that they are actually sisters?
Let’s assume that Catherine O’Hara’s character in “Home Alone” has the maiden name Gennaro, making Holly Gennaro McClane and Kevin’s mom sisters. This revelation would mean that Kevin from “Home Alone” is none other than John McClane’s nephew!
BOOM! With this theory, the worlds of “Die Hard” and “Home Alone” collide in a spectacular way. Now, you have all the information you need to settle the debate on whether “Die Hard” is a Christmas movie or not. So, Merry Christmas to all, and to all, a good night!
In what ways has “Die Hard” influenced the Christmas film genre?
Influence
One of the most surprising aspects of the ”Die Hard” phenomenon is its uncredited influence on the Christmas film genre. It’s no secret that “Die Hard” paved the way for action films set during the holiday season, but its impact goes beyond that. The film introduced a new type of protagonist – an ordinary, relatable person who finds themselves in extraordinary circumstances. This archetype has been replicated in numerous Christmas films, such as “Home Alone” and “Jingle All the Way.” Ultimately, the question of whether “Die Hard” is a Christmas movie remains unanswered. It has become a fun and lighthearted topic of debate among film enthusiasts and holiday revelers alike. Some argue that the presence of Christmas elements, the holiday backdrop, and the themes of redemption and togetherness make it a Christmas film. Others contend that its action-packed nature and lack of traditional Christmas sentiment disqualify it from the genre. Regardless of where you stand on the matter, one thing is clear – “Die Hard” has become an integral part of the holiday movie lineup, whether you consider it a Christmas film or not. So next time you partake in the ”Die Hard” Christmas movie debate, remember the interesting backstory and the impact it has had on the genre. And no matter which side you take, enjoy the spirited discussion and the holiday season that brings us all together.
The Debate Goes On
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