When Die Hard hit theaters in 1988, the "80s action blockbuster" had already been well-established. Yet, starring an unlikely hero in Bruce Willis, this film ultimately came to define the genre and the decade. In the show's unique fashion, this episode of "The Movies That Made Us" might be the best of the bunch.
There's a lot to cover regarding Die Hard, and this episode pretty much gets to it all. I had no idea the film was based on a book, or that the leading role had to be contractually offered to Frank Sinatra! Not only that, but the story of its filming is just as fascinating, from using the 20th Century Fox building as Nakatomi Plaza to shooting the helicopters scene in under two hours. As usual, this series gets the stories straight from the horse's mouth, if you will, talking with the writers, directors, and producers of the now-iconic film.
Even some of the stars get in on the fun, including figures like Bonnie Bedelia, De'voreaux White, and Reginald VelJohnson. It's fun to see their thoughts 30+ years after the film's release.
Overall, an incredibly fun and informative 45 minutes for anyone wanting some nostalgia or information about the movie that re-defined the action genre and everyman hero.