John McClane is targeted by a vengeful terrorist who
​traps him in an elaborate game across New York City.

ACTION/CRIME

Die Hard with a Vengeance (1995)

Directed by John McTiernan

Written by Jonathan Hensleigh

Starring Bruce Willis, Samuel L. Jackson, Jeremy Irons,
Graham Greene, Colleen Camp, Larry Bryggman, Anthony Peck

Sequel to 1990's Die Hard 2

Based on characters created by Roderick Thorp

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Caleb Leger

January 5, 2021

8/10

It seems the filmmakers realized there was a little too much of the same thing, as they actively try to do things different with this installment. And this isn’t a hit on the film. Quite the opposite, as the team apparently went back to the drawing board to figure out how to make a proper third film. One which would bring the story, characters, and action forward in a more creative, engaging way. But, most importantly, one that wouldn’t exactly be a repeat of what came before. This brings us to Die Hard with a Vengeance. A movie which not only gave us everything I just mentioned, but opened the stakes up big time with the whole of New York City being in danger.

There’s three things I really want to talk about. Three things which make this a really good sequel, in my opinion. First, the return of original director John McTiernan. He shows with this installment that he is probably the best when it comes to directing this series. The characters pop more. The action is just as intense. And the story moves briskly. He also adds more of a gritty feeling to this one which gives this installment a very unique feeling. Secondly, the casting of Samuel L. Jackson in one of his early roles. He is, as always, a thrill to watch and shares great chemistry with series star, Bruce Willis. The scenes with these two alone are worth the price of admission. Finally, the film finds a really cool way to link the original film to this one more directly. I won’t spoil it here, but it works well.

This third installment proves to be a refresher after the last one. Bringing back the original director, the casting of Jackson, and the connection to the original all come together to make a very engaging film.