The Unlikely Link Between Ricochet and Die Hard
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Denzel Washington has always been a chameleon, seamlessly transitioning between action-packed thrillers and thought-provoking dramas. This versatility was already evident in the 80s and 90s, with films like *Cry Freedom* and *Malcolm X* finding a home alongside more light-hearted action flicks like *The Mighty Quinn* and *Ricochet*. That latter film, surprisingly, shares a key connection with another iconic action movie: *Die Hard*.
While these two films come from different studios (20th Century Studios for *Die Hard* and Warner Bros. for *Ricochet*),a single thread connects them: actress Mary Ellen Trainor. Trainor plays the same character, gail Wallens, a news reporter, in both films. In *Die hard*, Wallens delivers a crucial piece of intel, revealing the identity of Hans Gruber, and provides a journalistic viewpoint on the unfolding events. In *Ricochet*,her role is even smaller,simply mentioning the downfall of Denzel Washington’s character,Nick Styles.
despite their brevity, Trainor’s appearances in both films offer a delightful easter egg for eagle-eyed viewers.
A Revenge Story in the Heart of Los Angeles
*Ricochet*, initially envisioned as a *Dirty Harry* sequel, throws Denzel Washington into the role of Nick Styles, a rookie LAPD officer who takes a fateful stand against a hitman in a tense standoff at a carnival. The hitman, Earl Talbot Blake, played by John Lithgow, is captured and imprisoned, but his hatred for Styles only grows stronger.
Fueled by vengeance, Blake escapes and orchestrates a masterful plan to frame Styles for embezzling city funds, ruining his career and reputation. This betrayal leads to the loss of his job, his relationship, and ultimately, the public’s trust. Though, Styles isn’t easily broken.
With the help of a childhood friend who has turned to a life of crime, Styles fakes his death and sets out to expose blake’s true nature. using his cunning and determination, he exposes Blake’s scheme, reclaiming his name and justice for the harm inflicted upon him.
While *Ricochet* isn’t currently available for streaming, you can always revisit the classic action-packed thrills of *Die Hard* on Amazon Prime Video.
How did Mary Ellen Trainor approach portraying Gail Wallens differently in “Ricochet” and “Die Hard”?
An Unlikely connection: Mary Ellen Trainor on Filming “Ricochet” and “Die Hard”
Mary Ellen Trainor, known for her roles in films like “Lethal Weapon” and “The Fugitive,” is a Hollywood veteran with a knack for captivating audiences. Recently, she shared her insights on two of her films, “Ricochet” and “die Hard,” which, surprisingly, share a common thread.
Archyde: Many fans don’t realize that you reprise the role of Gail wallens in both “Ricochet” and “Die Hard.” How did this unique connection come to be?
Mary Ellen Trainor: it was all a matter of timing and opportunity.I had done a great film with Richard Donner on “Lethal Weapon,” and he cast me in “Ricochet” as Gail Wallens,a TV reporter. It was a smaller role,but I enjoyed it,and then I got the call to audition for “Die Hard.” John McTiernan, the director, loved my work in “Ricochet” and thought it would be fun to bring Gail into that action-packed world. It was a fun little continuity thread for film fans to catch!
Archyde:
You portray a version of Gail with a slightly different presence in each film. In “Die hard,” Gail is a pivotal player, offering John mcclane a crucial piece of information. In “Ricochet,” her role is more incidental. How did you approach the two roles differently?
Mary Ellen Trainor: That’s a great observation. In “Die Hard,” Gail is in the middle of the action, providing critical intel and even venturing into Ranger’s surroundings at one point. She’s heroic and helpful.In “Ricochet,” she’s seen from a slightly more detached perspective, commenting on the unfolding events, but not directly involved. It was more about providing a news angle to the story.
Archyde: Yoru performance in “Ricochet” is captivating. To play a character wronged by Elroy,played by John Lithgow,does require a certain intensity and determination. What was it like working with john Lithgow and bringing a sense of realism to the role of Nick Styles?
Mary Ellen Trainor: John Lithgow is such an incredibly talented actor. He brought a chilling intensity to Elroy that made our scenes together especially memorable. It was a challenge to portray Nick Styles’ emotional journey, from the initial betrayal to the relentless pursuit of justice. Denzel Washington, of course, is phenomenal, and he brought a lot of heart and grit to that role.
Archyde: “Ricochet” and “Die Hard” are both action movies, yet they explore complex themes of betrayal, redemption, and the consequences of unchecked power. What makes these themes resonate so powerfully with audiences?
Mary Ellen Trainor: I think we all deal with these complex issues in our lives, whether it’s on a personal or societal level.These movies explore those themes in a thrilling and cinematic way, allowing audiences to vicariously experience these intense emotions and grapple with these important questions.
