Yes, John McClane is back as played by Bruce Willis. The new film Live Free or Die Hard is now out — though the name is somewhat misleading as to the content of the film. I went in figuring the film would be okay, but that I wouldn’t really enjoy it because the franchise is both old and dated — as well as the lead.
I was wrong. The film rocks from the opening moments to the final credit roll. It’s entertaining, the character is still believable and retains his sense of humour. His signature quote is cut-off right after the “F” though and that gives this film just enough to squeak by with a PG-13 instead of an R.
No film like this is actually believable or to be taken seriously, but the bit with the F-16 (or whatever model that was) flying in and out of the freeway pylons was simply a bit much. It was entertaining but stretched credulity just a little too far. His daughter was very well cast, the villain less so. The hacker geeks were very well done, and I speak from personal experience. “I am a Mac” guy was so believable in his role, it was scary.
If you liked the first movies, go see this film. You will not be disappointed.
I must mention one bit unrelated to the film. Many of my friends asked why I am not rushing out to see “Transformers” and I have two reasons. First, I was never a big fan of the cartoon. I didn’t like it and didn’t hate it. It was just there, though the toys were very cool. Secondly, I can answer in two words: Michael Bay. Michael Bay cannot direct his way out of a paper bag. He is responsible for “Pearl Harbor” and ruining some fine films in remakes. His best film was the entertaining Armageddon which lacked any style whatsoever; if that’s the best you can do: shame on you. Next up, he will mangle the Hitchcock classic the Birds.