Yippie-Ki-Yay?

Rating: 8/10 (2 July 2007)

I'm what you could somewhat call a die hard 'Die Hard' fan, as I've enjoyed every movies in the series (albeit, the 2nd one less) and have always enjoyed the crazy action and funny one liners and the whole mood created by these films.
This movie brings us back to John McClane's unfortunate world, and I've got to say I enjoyed this a lot more than I thought I would. I was scared the movie would become too 'CGI-ized' but was pleasantly surprised that Lens Wiseman made more or less subtle use of digital technology. The action is impressively set up and quite frankly, delivers on every level.
My main criticism (and this made me cringe slightly before watching the movie too) was the producers choice to have this film cut down to a PG-13 for a wider audience to enjoy. While I understand the idea, 'Die Hard' for me as always been so much fun because it was an action series (unlike say Mission Impossible) that had violence and swearing which made it feel more adult orientated. The one liners in this movie aren't as efficient as before and the repetitive kiddie insults used by McClane, which would certify the rating, make him seem nicer, and turns John into a more 'friendly neighborhood' policeman type instead of the iconic, dirty, down-talking cop which made him famous. Even the trademark line of the series, the emblem of this character, and the greatest quote of all time(exaggerated, I know) is bleeped out by a gunshot!
All this said though, the film was top-notch and impressive, and anyone looking for crazy action, entertainment or popcorn fun will enjoy this as much as I did. I recommend it to any Die Hard fan, or simply someone who wants a good time.
I just hope the R-rated Director's Cut will be released on DVD so we can get a real sense of Die Hard back.