The ’90s were a golden era for action movies. From high-octane car chases to explosive fight scenes, there was never a dull moment in the movies of this decade. But among them all, one movie stands out as the ultimate ’90s action movie: Die Hard. In this article, we’ll take a trip down memory lane and relive the awesomeness of this iconic movie that has since spawned several sequels and even a video game.
What is Die Hard?
Released in 1988, Die Hard stars Bruce Willis as John McClane, a NYPD detective who finds himself trapped in a Los Angeles skyscraper during a Christmas party when a group of terrorists led by Hans Gruber (played by the late Alan Rickman) takes over the building. McClane must use his wits and his toughness to outsmart the terrorists while trying to save the hostages, including his wife who is among them.
What Makes Die Hard the Ultimate ’90s Action Movie?
The Humor
One of the things that set Die Hard apart from other action movies of the time was its humor. Willis’ portrayal of McClane injected much-needed humor into the movie that could have otherwise been too dark and serious. From his witty one-liners to his sarcastic quips, McClane’s humor made the character relatable and likable, which contributed to the movie’s overall success.
The Action Scenes
Die Hard is an action-packed movie from start to finish. From the moment the terrorists take over the building, McClane is in constant action mode. He fights off the terrorists using his bare hands, guns, and whatever he can find in the building, including duct tape and fire hoses. The movie also features explosive car chases, intense shootouts, and even an iconic scene where McClane jumps off the roof of the building tied to a fire hose.
The Villain
Alan Rickman’s portrayal of Hans Gruber is another reason why Die Hard is the ultimate ’90s action movie. Gruber is a cold, calculating villain who is just as smart as he is ruthless. He goes toe-to-toe with McClane in a battle of wits that is just as intense as their physical fights. The scenes between Willis and Rickman are some of the best in the movie and are a testament to the actors’ talent and chemistry.
Other Epic Action Movies of the ’90s
While Die Hard may be the ultimate ’90s action movie, it’s worth noting that there were other epic action movies that defined the decade. Movies like Terminator 2: Judgment Day, Speed, and The Matrix all pushed the limits of what was possible in terms of action and special effects. These movies, along with Die Hard, set the bar for action movies that came after them.
In Conclusion
Die Hard is the ultimate ’90s action movie because it has all the ingredients of a classic action movie: humor, action, and a memorable villain. It pushed the boundaries of what was possible in terms of action movies and paved the way for movies that came after it. So, if you haven’t seen Die Hard yet (or if it’s been a while), do yourself a favor and give it a watch. You won’t be disappointed.
And there you have it – a trip down memory lane to the best ’90s action movies. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of action movies or just looking for a fun way to spend a couple of hours, these iconic movies will not disappoint. So sit back, grab some popcorn, and enjoy some of the best action movies the ’90s had to offer!
