The Die Hard starring Bruce Willis franchise has become synonymous with action-packed Christmas entertainment. But while the original 1988 film undoubtedly holds a special place in holiday movie hearts, a strong argument can be made for its sequel Die Hard 2 as the true ultimate Christmas movie.
Here’s why:
The Christmas Setting is Integral
Die Hard 2 isn’t just set on Christmas Eve, the holiday season plays a crucial role in the plot. Washington D.C.’s Dulles International Airport, a hub of holiday travel, becomes a battleground with the chaos of Christmas travel adding to the film’s sense of urgency and chaos. While the original took place in southern California with Century City’s warm climate, the second installment is in the epicenter of a winter blizzard that effects the entire northeastern corner of the country, mirroring what the majority of people associate with weather during the holiday season.
Bruce Willis in Die Hard 2 (Photo/FOX)
John McClane’s Relatability
Like many of us during the holidays, John McClane finds himself far from home, battling against the stresses of travel and longing for a simple Christmas with his family. His struggles with the airport, the bureaucracy, and the ever-present threat of terrorism resonate with anxieties due to a plane carrying corrupt foreign military leader General Ramon Esperanza en route to Dulles under extradition for using U.S. funds to buy drugs.
The “Christmas Spirit” is Present in Die Hard 2
While the action film is undeniably violent, there’s a subtle undercurrent of the Christmas spirit. McClane’s determination to protect innocent lives, his longing for his wife, and his eventual triumph against the group of mercenaries all contribute to a sense of hope and goodwill, even amidst the chaos.
The Verdict
The debate rages on: is Die Hard a Christmas movie? While many argue its iconic status as a holiday action classic, its sequel Die Hard 2 throws a serious wrench into the mix as this action-packed extravaganza could be considered the true Christmas movie of the franchise.
Ultimately, whether or not Die Hard 2 qualifies as a Christmas movie is a matter of personal opinion. However, its undeniable holiday setting, action-packed Christmas Eve climax, and underlying themes of heroism and family make it a strong contender for the title of “Ultimate Christmas Movie.”
