A film that is hailed by some fans as an ‘exceptional addition’ to an ‘iconic’ franchise is on TV tonight.
While the original film is often cited as one of the best films to watch at Christmas, the fourth instalment in the Die Hard franchise airs on television just a few days after the big day. It will be shown on ITV1 on Saturday, December 28 at 11.05pm. Those who want an earlier start time or can’t wait until then will need to sign up for a Disney+ subscription where it is also available to stream.
Originally released as Die Hard 4.0 outside North America when it hit cinemas in 2007 but eventually referred by its US title, Live Free or Die Hard, it’s yet another follow up to the beloved action series. Much like its predecessors, Die Hard 4 took inspiration for its plot from other sources. While the first two films were based on novels by Roderick Thorp and Walter Wager respectively, and the third was taken from a spec script titled Simon Says, the fourth was inspired by an article about cyberwarfare written by John Carlin.
In the film, Bruce Willis is back in action as NYPD detective John McClane and assigned to bring in a computer hacker played by Justin Long. He eventually finds himself caught in a deadly game of cat and mouse against dangerous cyber terrorists led by Timothy Olyphant’s Thomas Gabriel. McClane finds himself in a race against time with his now grown up daughter Lucy put in danger as well.
Live Free or Die Hard is the most favourably received of all the sequels. It is second when put in order of each entry including the original, by Rotten Tomatoes score with 82%. One fan argued online that it is the “best film in the franchise in my opinion.”
There was some controversy among the fanbase upon its initial release. Unlike the earlier films, Live Free or Die Hard was edited to remove some strong language and be downgraded from an R rated film to PG-13 in the US. This included removing some of McClane’s iconic phrase, so he just about says “Yippee Ki Yay”. An Ultimate Action Edition of the film was later released on DVD which included the full line.
It hasn’t stopped fans loving the film though as one sharing their review online posted: “Live Free or Die Hard is an exceptional additional to the collection. It is an action-packed thriller with once again, a genius plot which takes John and Matt on a literally explosive journey. I was pretty blown away by many of the stunts performed in this film, especially those combined with the hand-to-hand combat scenes.
“The acting and filming was solid, and the humour was such a gem which took me back to the reason by the original movie was so amazing. Overall, a satisfying action thriller which is a must-see for all Die Hard fans.”
Another said: “A film worth watching, and one that was a great addition to Die Hard and a great concept, all it needs is a longer ending in my honest opinion, overall iconic!”
Die Hard 4 is on ITV1 at 11.05pm Saturday, December 28 and streaming on Disney+.