Something is amiss when computer programmers out-number stunt-men on a film’s credits. Such is the case with the fifth entry in the ‘Die Hard’ series. Establishing itself as a high octane action franchise with brutal quips matching gunplay, its popularity has endured. Sadly none of its gloss can be found in its latest instalment. Lacking flair, fun and excitement, this is a mediocre addition to what used to be the zenith of gargantuan block-busters.
New York City cop John McClane (Bruce Willis) is still having a bad day. It becomes worse when his son Jack (Jai Courtney) is arrested in Russia. Flying over to bail him out, little does he know what to expect. Discovering Jack was attempting to defuse a terrorist plot, John becomes involved in his mission. With villains rushing towards them from all corners, it’s every man for them-selves as father and son take them on in an unusual and often fiery bonding session.
‘A Good Day to Die Hard’ commits the cardinal sin of being dull. The fights, explosions and guns are all in place but under John Moore’s direction, none of it comes to life. There’s little joy in the silly capers with Willis re-enacting his famous role with zero enthusiasm. It isn’t difficult to see why as the illogical plot limps towards a conclusion revelling in CGI-excess.
‘Die Hard 5’ quickly unravels due to a poorly executed set-up and scant characterisation. It is difficult caring what happens when viewers don’t know who is who or more importantly don’t know what’s going on. Taking the all-American McClane onto foreign territory was a big mistake as his usual surrounds added much to the series’ initial appeal. It’s almost the complete opposite of the first film’s grandiose sweep with laughs and fights on the agenda. Everything on offer is steadfastly painted in drab strokes with Willis’ bald visage no compensation for the film’s overall tired feel.
Exiting the stage gracefully is something the ‘Die Hard’ series needs to do. If No. 5 is its last hurrah then it’s not a moment too soon as it fails to win against the shadowy villain of its former self.
Movie Review Rating out of 10: 5
Movie Review by Patrick Moore
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Good review Graham. As a result, there is some decent action and a lot of explosions, but I would be hard-pressed to call this a Die Hard film, rather than just an action film with Bruce Willis.
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