Die Hard with a Vengeance - 4/5

This movie is a return to form, almost as enjoyable as the first one for the same reasons, without feeling trite and formulaic. The villain is back to being an criminal mastermind and the hero is relegated back to underdog status, the dynamic that sets the franchise apart in the action genre. The side characters are back to being likable and interesting, making for a fun action romp with just enough mystery to keep it interesting. It redeems the franchise from its predecessor and ends the original trilogy in high form.

Closest comparison: It’s like a cross between The Last Boyscout and Inside Man.

Setting: Buddy Cop
Plot: Thriller
Tone: Action

Die Hard (1988) - 5/5

What can I say about this quintessential action movie? The action takes a back seat to the plot, only presenting itself when relevant. The characters are vibrant and engaging but not overbearing enough to bog down the narrative flow. It’s fun and funny without undercutting the tension, it’s believable enough to pass muster without relying on needlessly boring realism as a countermeasure. It’s a classic for a reason.

Closest comparison: It’s somewhere between Commando and John Wick.

Setting: Action
Plot: Action
Tone: Action