Is ‘Die Hard’ a Christmas Movie? The Debate Rages On

For decades, a divisive question has plagued movie lovers every holiday season: Is “Die Hard” a Christmas movie? While some argue its explosive action sequences and summer release date disqualify it, others embrace its Christmas setting and festive soundtrack, firmly placing it among holiday classics.

The debate recently resurfaced when a photo of an in-flight entertainment system showcasing “Die Hard” in the “Holiday” movie section surfaced online. Fans flocked to the comments, offering passionate arguments on both sides.

“I wouldn’t have thought so when it was first out back in the day, but I do now!” one commenter wrote. “Die Hard brings the holiday vibes!”

Die Hard: Christmas Setting vs. Action-Packed Plot

Others countered, pointing out that “Die Hard” was originally released in July and doesn’t rely on traditional Christmas themes.

“It was originally released in the month of July…that’s not a Christmas movie!!” another commenter exclaimed.

Proponents of “Die Hard” as a Christmas movie often cite the film’s setting, a Christmas party at Nakatomi Plaza, and its abundance of Christmas music.

“The movie literally takes place at a Christmas party,” one commenter pointed out.

However, detractors argue that setting doesn’t necessarily equate to a Christmas movie.

“Set during Christmas, but not a ‘Christmas’ movie,” another commenter chimed in.

Bruce Willis Weighs In: “It’s A G–damn Bruce Willis Movie”

The debate reached new heights when Bruce Willis himself publicly addressed the lingering question.

During a 2018 roast, Willis aimed to definitively settle the argument. “Now please, listen very carefully. ‘Die Hard’ is not a Christmas movie!” Willis declared. “It’s a g–damn Bruce Willis movie.” His stance has further fueled the discussion, with some acknowledging his opinion while others remain unconvinced, sticking to their own interpretation.

From Co-Stars to Spouse: A Range of Opinions

Even those involved with the film have offered differing perspectives. Reginald VelJohnson, who played LAPD officer Al Powell in “Die Hard,” hasn’t explicitly declared his stance but admitted he’s content with its Christmas movie classification.

“When we did it, we weren’t thinking of it as a Christmas movie,” VelJohnson revealed in a 2018 interview. He added that his annual residual check from the film underscores its enduring popularity.

“I’m totally fine with it being one, though!” he declared.

Even Bruce Willis’ wife, Emma Heming Willis, seemingly shared her support in a 2023 Instagram story, writing “Us too,” while watching “Die Hard” on TV.

Whether “Die Hard” is ultimately accepted as a Christmas movie remains up for individual interpretation. One thing is clear: the debate is unlikely to disappear anytime soon, and “Die Hard” will continue to fuel holiday discussions for years to come.

Is the action and violence in “Die Hard” inconsistent with being categorized as a Christmas⁣ movie?

‌## Is “Die Hard” a Christmas Movie?

**[INTRO MUSIC]**

**HOST:** Welcome back to the⁣ show! It’s the holiday season, which means it’s time for another round of the age-old debate: Is “Die Hard” a Christmas ⁣movie? This perennial question has divided families and ignited countless online arguments. Joining us today to shed some light on this festive feud is film ⁤critic, [GUEST NAME]. Welcome to the show!

**GUEST:** Thanks for having me! I’m always happy to talk about this⁣ beloved holiday… uh… action thriller.

**HOST:** [Laughs] Exactly! So, [GUEST NAME], where do you stand on this controversial issue?

**GUEST:** Well, I think the answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. “Die Hard” ​definitely takes place during a Christmas‌ party, the soundtrack is full of festive ‌tunes, and there are plenty of Christmas decorations throughout. However, it’s ⁣also an action-packed thriller with explosions, ⁤shootouts, and a whole lot of violence,​ which doesn’t exactly scream “holiday cheer”.[[1](https://www.msn.com/en-us/movies/news/why-die-hard-is-one-of-the-best-christmas-movies-opinion/ar-AA1v8PgJ)]

**HOST:** It’s true, there is a dissonance there. Some argue that the film’s ‌summer release date further disqualifies it from being considered a⁢ true Christmas movie. What’s your take on that?

**GUEST:** I get that argument, but I think the setting and atmosphere of the ⁣film are more important than its release date. ⁢After all,‌ plenty of movies set during other holidays premiere outside of those holidays.

**HOST:** That’s‌ a good point. So, would you say “Die Hard” is more of ‌a Christmas movie by association, or does it truly embrace the holiday spirit?

**GUEST:** I’d say it’s more⁤ of a Christmas movie by⁢ accident.⁣ It wasn’t intended to be a holiday classic, but its Christmas setting has been embraced by fans who enjoy watching it during the festive season.

**HOST:** Fascinating!​ Well, there you​ have it, folks. The debate rages on, ‍but ‍hopefully, ‍this⁣ has given you some food for thought.

**[OUTRO MUSIC]**

**HOST:** Thanks to [GUEST NAME] for joining us and providing their insights on this holiday heated debate. Be sure to let ⁢us know where you stand on the “Die Hard” dilemma in the comments below.