Simply put, the one that started it all

Rating: Null/10 (25 October 2000)

What is it about this movie...
When looked at individually, each component of the film is well done: the acting, the directing, the script, the music, etc. When combined, however, these separate parts come together to form a piece of cinematic wonder. While this may sound melodramatic, in reality it is not. Why do we watch Die Hard over and over, so many years later, even though we know exactly what will happen? Why do we get that familiar clenching of the gut everytime John McClane picks up a gun? In essence, this is because, while it may not be new, it is nonetheless always exciting.
This is not so much a review of Die Hard as it is a lavishing of praise. With that one movie, the filmmakers achieved what so many have struggled to do since: they made the quintessential action movie, and in doing so they changed the audience's level of acceptance as to what a great movie really is. The attention to detail is remarkable, and evident in every scene. Bruce Willis and Alan Rickman are not so much acting as they are living their roles, so much so that it almost feels as if, years later, they are still locked into their battle, each testing the others' resolve.
This film will forever remain as a testament to what can be accomplished by paying strict attention to detail. Because of that dedication to the film, we as the audience are left with a finely crafted piece of work, where every scene resonates with an ambience that can only be described as a "perfect fit", where no word or movement is given needlessly, and where we see a true hero act in a remarkable situation (and believe everything we see along the way). I for one will continue to watch this film every time it pops up on cable, for in doing so I know, without a doubt, that I am in for a great ride.