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This 1986 comedy out of Australia is so old-fashioned in its romantic charm that one can't help but wonder what it would have looked like with Clark Gable and Carole Lombard in the leads. On the other hand, it's hard to imagine anyone besides Paul Hogan as the title character, a laid-back Aussie tracker who shows an American reporter (Linda Kozlowski) around bush country, then accompanies her to New York City. Sure, Hollywood has done the fish-out-of-water scenario to death in the last 20 years, and while this film has sufficient sport with the gimmick, it is largely driven by the principal characters and their developing love affair. Hogan cowrote the script and director Peter Faiman evokes the goofy, enchanted air of screwball comedies. The climactic scene, set in a subway station with scores of bystanders witnessing a conversation about relationship commitment, feels like vintage Capra. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (29)

A great Australian movie.
After finding out how Australian bushman Mick 'Crocodile' Dundee survived a Croc attack in Australia's Northern Territory, New York reporter Sue Charlton takes him to New York City, USA, to experience life in the big city. Directed by Peter Faiman, 'Crocodile Dundee' stars Paul Hogan as Mick and Linda Kozlowski as Sue and features a catchy music score by Peter Best. You'll love 'Crocodile Dundee.'

The movie that made Paul Hogan a star
Paul Hogan has a few great movies, but "Crocodile Dundee" is the one that got him started. A woman (Linda Kozlowski) takes a trip to Australia and seeks the famous Crocodile Dundee (Paul Hogan) and begins doing her job as a reporter. She becomes interested in Crocodile Dundee and his antics in the Land Down Under such as how skilled he is at killing crocodiles. As a matter of fact, she invites him to come to New York City with her because he has never even traveled anywhere before.

Before long, Mr. Dundee is making friends in The Big Apple without really meaning to. I guess you could consider "Crocodile Dundee" a romantic comedy, but it's also a lot like an adventure movie. Parts of the movie are hilarious such as what Mr. Dundee does when he suspects that someone who is dressed up like a woman isn't really a woman and when he scares some hunters away by making them think that the animal they're hunting is shooting at them.

"Crocodile Dundee" is a fun movie to watch and it's interesting to see how Mr. Dundee is going to survive in the big city when all he's ever known is life in a small part in Australia. I recommend anybody who likes classic movies to get "Crocodile Dundee."

Funnneeeee!
It's old (1986) and it's schmaltzy and old-fashioned, but Crocodile Dundee is still worth watching if you missed it first time around. Paul Hogan, fresh from Down Under, is so perfectly cast that it quickly becomes apparent that he's not really acting at all: this is just who he is. He plays a relaxed Aussie tracker who shows an American reporter around his native bush country, then accompanies her to her own turf in New York City. It's the old fish-out-of-water theme, and Hogan and co-star Linda Koslowski (whom he later married, in real life), play it off perfectly.
Pure confection, but also pure fun.

Outstanding Movie!
This was one of the more entertaining movies that you will ever see.A news reporter from New York played by Linda Kozlowski
goes to Australia and discovers Crocodile Dundee ably played by
Paul Hogan. She takes him to New York.The show is then on.He is
able to see the many sights and sounds of New York City. His
reaction to some of these situations is very humorous and helps
to make this a very good movie.You are able to recall some of
the humorous moments as a result of Crocodile Dundee and New York
Any time someone thinks of Australia Crocodile Dundee will pop
into your mind.The newspaper reporter-heiress winds up falling in love with Dundee.An awesome movie that you will enjoy.

Mick "Crocodile" Dundee first visits the Big City
"Crocodile Dundee" is the entertaining 1986 film that made Paul Hogan, the Australian television star whose tourism commercials for the country that is a continent introduced Americans to the idea of throwing another shrimp on the barbie. This movie follows "the innocent abroad" tradition, in which a naive person from a distant land (or planet) arrives in the big city and experiences the foibles of modern civilization through saner eyes. Besides the Australian accent, the twist is that Mick "Crocodile" Dundee can more than hold his own against the pimps, muggers, and fiances that would make lesser mortals back down or run away.

The premise is that New York City reporter Sue Charlton (Linda Kozlowski) goes Down Under to interview the colorful crocodile poacher who lives out in the outback. He shows her the lay of the land and does a few impressive things, including saving her life, and turns out to be as colorful as anyone could hope. She then decides to bring him back to NYC and unleash him on the unsuspecting population. The New York sequence is where all of the good bits in the film come and Hogan's easy charm and sense of comic timing makes almost all of the bits work. It is hard not to like Mick Dundee and it is not surprising that a romance pops up between him and the reporter.

The only problem is that the on-screen chemistry between the two leads is the weakest part of the film. Yes, I know that Hogan divorced his wife and that in 1990 he married Kozlowski, but whatever was happening off-camera did not translate onto the screen, which is not unusual: just think about "Bennifer." It can be done, if you are Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn, but all of the warmth and charm in the Hogan and Kozlowski pairing is on his side of the equation. The result is that the final scene of the film is rather unsatisfying, even with the incessant drumming music reminding us this is dramatic. We are supposed to be caught up in Mick and Sue, but it is the two guys on the subway platform who steal the scene.

Still, "Crocodile Dundee" is an entertaining film about a big kid in a bid city (with a big knife) whose reputation would be slightly more enhanced if it had not spawned a couple of sequels, which deluted the charm of the original. Going back to the outback or putting Mick Dundee in Los Angeles instead of New York is enjoyable, but it is just more of the same and there is never quite as good the second time around. ... Read more

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This seminal 1988 thriller made Bruce Willis a star and established a new template for action stories: "Terrorists take over a (blank), and a lone hero, unknown to the villains, is trapped with them." In Die Hard, those bad guys, led by the velvet-voiced Alan Rickman, assume control of a Los Angeles high-rise with Willis's visiting New York cop inside. The attraction of the film has as much to do with the sight of a barefoot mortal running around the guts of a modern office tower as it has to do with the plentiful fight sequences and the bond the hero establishes with an LA beat cop. Bonnie Bedelia plays Willis's wife, Hart Bochner is good as a brash hostage who tries negotiating his way to freedom, Alexander Godunov makes for a believable killer with lethal feet, and William Atherton is slimy as a busybody reporter. Exceptionally well directed by John McTiernan. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (189)

Die Hard is one fast spectacular wild ride.
This is it the masterful film that started all terrorist films and gave them a genere. John McTiernan's fundimental action film is a classic action aventure film that made Bruce Willis an overnight star.New York City cop John Mclane is vacationing over the holidays to see his wife and spend time with his family ,his wife played by Bonnie Bedilia (Holly Gennero).But just as John Mclane is enjoying his vacation a group of terrorists , take over the 30 story highrise and declare war now tired and trapped, he is the only hope for his estranged wife and the other hostiges who are being held by Hans Gruber played by Alan Rickman. John has the experience for mortal combat and antiterrorist tactics his only support is officer Powell a officer that is on the scene. With only a handgun and what he seemingly gets from the terrorists he launches his own one man war with the terrorists. Bleeding and bruised he attacks dissapears and reappears to attack again and with the brains and intelligence of a cop if there's one thing John Mclane is it's that he's hard to kill and as tough as steel taking out the terrorists like flies in a spider web it's only a matter of time before Mclane makes the terrorist his prey. Bruce Willis plays John Mclane with style making him compareable with Clint Eastwoods Dirty Harry but infact this is the best cop movie since the likes of Dirty Harry. The specal edition has fun and interesting options such as an editing feature
where you can edit chosen parts of the film it's as if you have your own film school in Die Hard, other features are sound editing and a vault of deleted scenes and a branching version of the film.If you want an action classic then this film is the one your looking for amazing special effects and incredible action make Die Hard a must have for any DVD owner so get your popcorn buckle up and get ready to be blown out of your chair!.

Extra power, extra punch for an already hard-hitting film
Sure, this first installment of the Die Hard trilogy came to theaters 13 years ago, but to add freshness to this classic action ride, director John McTiernan and his crew technical craftsmen and producers have united to bring the power of INTER-action to the DVD viewer in their own home.

You, the viewer, can examine and re-examine, review and re-edit bits and pieces of the film in the editor's workshop section. Believe me, you've never seen anything like this before. Besides being fun to have the power over what you're manipulating, an added appreciation for the craft of editing is easily achieved. The entire screenplay is also on the second disk, word for word as it originally was handed to the actors. This allows the views to see how the script evolved in the hands of those who made the film. The usual outtakes, bloopers, and deleted scenes are here (fairly standard nowadays), too. Commentary and behind the scenes words from those who were there are also here for your enjoyment.

The best appreciated bonus is the amazing clarity of the digital transfer. Cinematographer Jan de Bont's dark and moody work is seen sharper and clearer than anything which could have been put on a silver screen in any cinema house. The full-bodied sound is spectrually sharp and defined. This is how all film experiences should be.

If you're tired of DVDs which are little more than "theatrical trailer, feature, and scene selection" (and SOOOOO many are just that), then get your hands on this special set right away and see what the DVD experience is all about. For those who don't yet own DVD, this would be the perfect excuse to invest in a player. My only warning would be to not expect all these fabulous goodies on every DVD you buy--for now. I know this set is going to revolutionize the way companies package and "re-package" their upcoming DVD releases.

"Do I sound like I'm ordering a pizza?"
John McTiernan's "Die Hard" is one of the more celebrated entries in the action-adventure genre. Yet, the film upon close inspection is really just another "shoot-'em-up" production that ultimately wears out its welcome long before the final baddie is gunned down.

John McClane (Bruce Willis) is a New York police officer who has arrived in Los Angeles for Christmas. His wife (Bonnie Bedelia) has accepted a vice-president position with Nakatomi Corporation. While McClane is attending a Christmas party at his wife's new office building, a group of terrorists led by Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman) seize the high-rise so that they may steal millions of dollars in negotiable bonds. McClane takes it upon himself to defeat the terrorists and free the hostages they have taken.

"Die Hard" does introduce some novel aspects to the genre - it's a nice change of pace to see an everyman hero instead of the typical secret agent or military super-soldier at the center of an action film, it's nice to see an action hero with a sensitive side, and it's also nice to see a villain with a degree of sophistication. But "Die Hard" intermixes these elements with so many loud explosions and gunfights that one becomes numb after awhile. Throw in too many supporting characters who are deficient in the intelligence department and one inexcusable resurrection at the end, and all you're left with is a film that is great to look at but nothing more. Willis more than proves he can play an action hero and Bedelia adds a welcome degree of charm to the proceedings. Yet, "Die Hard" turns out to be only a smidgen better than its action contemporaries from the period and that is not enough to make it something special.

As Good As Action Gets
In 1988, a film was released that changed the face of action films forever. That film was "Die Hard".

"Die Hard" is, quite simply, as good as an action film can be. Just what makes this movie so different from all the other generic rip-offs out there? "Die Hard" has just the right blend of witty, intelligent writing (yet still not forgetting the profanity), exquisite acting, intense plot twists, and just the right amount of bloody killing. And to top it off, all of this expertly directed at break-neck speed by John McTiernan.

This DVD gives the film a cleaner, newer look, keeping it looking fresh and exciting for the digital era. The sharper picture and sound maybe even add a little something.

After "Die Hard", every action movie was just a wanna-be. They try to mimic what "Die Hard" managed, but never even come close. (This group of films even include the two sequels the film spawned.)

If you're looking for something fun, intense, intelligent, action-packed, and maybe even a little graphic, look no further than the legendary "Die Hard".

Die Hard (1988)
Director: John McTiernan
Cast: Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman, Bonnie Bedalia, Alexander Gudonov, Paul Gleason, William Atherton, Hart Bochner, James Shigeta, Reginald Vel Johnson.
Running Time: 132 minutes.
Rated R for extreme violence, language, and brief nudity.

Fresh of his success with the popular television series "Moonlighting", Bruce Willis takes his stab at the motion picture business with full force. "Die Hard" works on many levels--mainly as an action flick with a powerful leading star that adds a touch of normalcy and humor--but it also discusses more important views such as the criticism of the culturization of Japanese technology that was taking place at the time as well as the horrific, ongoing threat of terrorism. It s a film that shows just how vulnerable any business or workplace really is to a terrible force but also how one man can stand up to the challenge and ultimately make a difference.

John McClane (Willis) is a New York City cop who travels to the Los Angeles area to reconcile with his seperated wife (Bonnie Bedalia) and family, who left him to pursue a lucrative job with a Japanese financial industry skyscraper. While participating in a Christmas Eve party, the building is overtaken by German terrorists who want to use the hostage Japanese executives to break into the company safe. McClane watches as the head terrorist (played brilliantly by Alan Rickman) blows the brains out of the Japenese CEO realizes that the game is on.

With the help of a gun-shy cop (Reginald Vel Johnson--yes, that's right--Mr. Winslow from "Family Matters") and to the annoyance of police chief Paul Gleason, McClane runs around like a chicken with its head cut off attempting to save the hostages. While on the explosive one-man war, Bruce Willis plays McClane in a very believable, humorous fashion--which is the quintessential reason for the film being one of the best of its kind. "Die Hard" is a non-stop frenzy of excellent action sequences, a superb and witty screenplay written by Jeb Stuart and Steven D. de Souza (adapted from the Roderick Thorp novel), and top-notch, edge-of-your-seat direction from McTiernan. The Five Star Collection DVD features a deleted scene and some excellent commentary from cast and crew. One of the best action films of the 1980's. A superb roller-coaster ride of thrills. ... Read more

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Director Renny Harlin (Cutthroat Island) took the reins of this 1990 sequel, which places Bruce Willis's New York City cop character in harm's way again with a gaggle of terrorists. This time, Willis awaits his wife's arrival at Dulles Airport in Washington, D.C., when he gets wind of a plot to blow up the facility. Noisy, overbearing, and forgettable, the film has none of the purity of its predecessor's simple story; and it makes a huge miscalculation in allowing a terrible tragedy to occur rather than stretch out the tension. Where Die Hard set new precedents in action movies, Die Hard 2 is just an anything-goes spectacle. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (66)

Suprisingly Weak
The first, and worst, sequel to Die Hard, is terrorised by the same plot as the original. While waiting for his wife's plane to arrive at Dulles Airport (on Xmas Eve), McClane notices a few suspicious exchanges between a group of men amidst the busy yuletide passengers.

Before you know he is neck deep in trouble with an army of mercenaries, led by Colonel Stewart (William Sadler), who are hell-bent on setting free a corrupt South American General/Drug Baron (Franco Nero). There are more bad guys than before. And more suspension of disbelief is required.

There are so many plot holes and illogical moments that the film almost drowns in its own absurdity. But there is enough action and stunts to cancel it out and distract our attention. Though they not presented in a breathtaking or memorable way. It's all too generic and a bit mean-spirited. No audience nowadays would be satisfied with it so prepare yourself for 80's violence.

William Sadler and Franco Nero lack the callous efficiency of Alan Rickman. And a hero can only be measured by his nemesis. But most of the time McClane is just capping off nameless mercs. How boring. Tho this should not be blamed on Sadler, he has a threatening and intense presence and as he has proved himself in movies like Trespass and Demon Knight. Too bad his character here is so badly written and underdeveloped. I'm sorry but blowing up 250 people off-screen to show how evil you are just won't cut it.

This was Renny Harlin's second movie of 1990 (the other was Ford Fairlain) and it is without a doubt the movie that made him a certified action director. It was a tough, and huge, movie to pull off. He just pulled it off with no particular charm. Though he does a wonderful job of capturing the look and feel of an East Coast winter. The wide-open snowfields and ice-covered runways will definitely make you feel chilly.

Although this is another problem. The first Die Hard worked entirely within the space of Nakatomi Plaza. It was claustrophobic and almost plausible. The scale and scope of Die Hard 2 is too big for its own good. Similar to the problems of ID4, the staples of reality are ripped out with ignorance and over-confidence. The bulk of the film is nothing but one dumb action scene after another. It doesn't make for coherent viewing.

Die Hard 2 is a definite lag in between both of McTiernan's very strong outings. By today's standards it seems dated and very 90's. Which is a shame considering the original and 'With A Vengeance' are, in a way, 'timeless'. It's movies like this that inspired 'Last Action Hero'.

Filmed in Panavision, the 2.35:1 anamorphic picture is superb looking with true blacks (a lot of this film is set at night) and nice fleshtones. Fire effects and colors look beautifully orange and overall the quality is top notch aside from a few instances of minor pixelation.

The gunshots are loud and ferocious in both the Dolby Digital and DTS tracks. All explosions and every punch and kick are rendered with amazing clarity. Some of the surrounds tend to stick to mono but the plane crash in the middle of the movie will convince it is actually happening in your living room. Dialogue scenes tend to stick to the front speaker and the musical score by Michael Kamen is well recorded and is sure to excite.

Renny Harlin's commentary is much more interesting that John McTiernan's fatigued and labored effort on the first movie. Harlin talks about the characters more and how he prefers his movies to be in terms of motivation and why characters should smoke only if it is necessary. Among other things. Such as how many of the effects he did then, in many different ways, would be so much quicker and easier to do today in Digital CGI.

The Featurette was made for Fox TV back in 1990 and it is a bit better than the usual, self-congratulatory nonsense that bogs down most featurettes. But it still can't resist talking about how 'great' the movie is. Tho thanks to this extra we now know that most of the snow in the movie is shredded soap. A second, 4-minute, Featurette is basically an extended trailer.

There are a few deleted scenes that are not that interesting and it's easy to see why they were cut from the film. Although the alternate scene on how McClane gets to the Annex Skywalk (The Boiler Room) is quite cool.

The interview with Renny Harlin and the Villain's Profile are promotional titbits in which they discuss how to direct a high-concept sequel and how to be an evil bad guy.

Behind the scenes and storyboards focuses on 2 scenes. The first is 'Breaking the Ice' and the second is 'Chaos on the Conveyor Belt'. The storyboard and film comparison is for the 'Skywalk Ambush' sequence.

Visual effects breakdowns explore, in great length and tedious, repetitive slo-mo, the Ejector seat scene and the Airport Runway. These are basically green-screen evolutions. The other model effects scenes broken down are 'Chopper', 'Airplane Models' and 'Wing Fight'.

Fast-paced follow-up fueled by thrills...
While not as original or inspired as the first, "Die Hard 2: Die Harder" is still an action-packed, slick movie with twists and turns fit for a roller-coaster ride of pure mayhem! Bruce Willis reprises his role as John McClane, this time in trouble at a Washington D.C. airport, where terrorists have taken the air traffic control captive. With McClane's wife on one of the stranded planes, our hero races to kick the butts of the bad guys once again! This is a worthy follow-up to the 80s hit film, with some cool action sequences and some pretty decent scripting.

Almost as good as the original
Count me among the few, it seems, who believe DIE HARD 2 to be almost as good as the original DIE HARD. I personally don't understand why this sequel always seems to be undervalued in favor of the jaggedly uneven, incoherent DIE HARD WITH A VENGEANCE.

Certainly DIE HARD 2 is not as good as the original. It lacks the first film's grittiness and claustrophobic atmosphere (but of course a loss of the latter was expected when the scriptwriters expanded the playing field to an entire airport as opposed to one floor of a highrise); its villain is no match for DIE HARD's subtly chilling Hans Gruber; and director Renny Harlin disappointingly favors action over those little human touches that so distinguished the original, insteading favoring more action. (Besides, couldn't the screenwriters have come up with a more creative plot than simply recycling the general structure of the original? But hey, this is a Hollywood product, where it's best not to take too many chances in the quest to cash-in on a big success, which DIE HARD certainly was.)

All that being said, the action sequences are undeniably thrilling---the action of the second half, particularly, moves so quickly from one great setpiece to another that the momentum never lets up 'til the very end---and Bruce Willis is just as good as he was in the original, proving that he will always be John McClane in my mind. All in all, DIE HARD 2 is arguably even MORE entertaining viscerally than DIE HARD.

In short, DIE HARD will forever be a genre classic, but DIE HARD 2 is a worthy sequel when it comes to pure action---and when you are talking about action movies, isn't the action what's really important anyway?

A fan's review
I would like to start by pointing out that this movie gets a lot of crap. A LOT. This is in no way as bad as the reviews may make you think, and in fact this is my favorite Die Hard film.

I'm a huge fan of the series. I've seen them all plenty of times, and this one stands out for me. I'm not the only one, either; Ebert also claims this to be the greatest Die Hard. You've heard the same complaints about this movie a thousand times, I'm sure of it. But what tends to be left out is the amazing special effects, the truely die hard enemies, and the perfectly directed action scenes. This was directed by a different director than the other two blockbusters. Die Hard 2 also made the most money at the box offices. It really is the best!

Overreaches but still exciting
While this installment is the weakest of the three, it still has some exciting moments. All in all, I think the film tried so hard to top the first (best) Die Hard film, that the failure is that much more evident.

The characterizations are not as well fleshed-out as in the others. The action scenes become predictable and less exciting as the movie progresses.

I had to laugh at one of the BIGGEST continuity flaws I've ever witnessed in a big-budget movie: the plane that crashes is forced to the ground by lack of fuel. Why, then, does it explode in a HUGE fireball if it's out of gas? Somebody screwed up. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

fast paced action and humor to boot
I just finished watching Die Hard One again and it is still really good. It brings up the terrorist attack feelings so be warned. The wit Bruce Willis displays is just right for this type of a film and his heroics are believable. I definately would recommend this to an action lover, it keeps going with suspense and doesn't get to out there with disbelief. I suggest watching with a few cold beers and a big bowl of popcorn. Lisa Nary ... Read more

Description

Academy Award(R)-winner Tom Hanks (Best Actor, 1995, FORREST GUMP) stars as Scott Turner, a compulsively neat detective whose tidy world goes to the dogs when he's forced to team up with the only witness to a crime -- a drooling slob of a junkyard dog named Hooch. Not exactly man's best friend, Hooch turns Turner's life upside down, wrecking Turner's home, career, and budding romance! It's a hilarious, nonstop test of wills between this mismatched duo, leading to the most unlikely friendship you've ever seen! TURNER & HOOCH thrilled audiences nationwide with its offbeat blend of humor and suspense -- this fast-paced box office megahit is loads of fun! ... Read more

Reviews (26)

Cute Movie!
Turner and Hooch is a cute movie starring Tom Hank's as a neurotic cop who likes every thing to always be neat and organized having his life changed when he has to guard a messy, slobbery but loveable dog named Hooch who is a murder witness and has to take the dog home with him and at first Hooch drives him crazy but he soon grows to like the old pooch!

Tom Hanks Best Movie....Turner And Hooch.
This movie is by far Hanks' best film to date. His awe inspiring performance is mezmorizing. His on screen releationship with Hooch is titilating. Without a doubt, one of the best movies of all time. It has a little something for everyone.....with a very, very sad ending. You'll laugh, you'll cry. But all in all you will walk away with a little Hooch in you.

I have seen this movie a hundred or so times and I keep wishing that the movie just mind end a little different. Please Mr. Director....there has to be an alternate ending. Can't wait for a sequel.

An all time favorite
There are few movies as wonderful as this (OK, being a big dog lover helps). I thought Tom Hanks did a fabulous job, and I enjoyed him much better in those days then I do now. Hootch was the best dog actor I've ever seen. No looking over at the trainer all the time, at least that we could see.

I want to buy this DVD, but I can't see if there is a commentary or any extras.

sad ending
All the humor and amusing antics of the script go completely out the window when Hooch dies at the end. Bah! Kill Hanks but not the dog!

Funniest movies of all time
This is such a good movie, I keep watching it often. Only funnier movie I ever saw was Rat Race. Buy it an d be happy. ... Read more

Reviews (189)

Die Hard is one fast spectacular wild ride.
This is it the masterful film that started all terrorist films and gave them a genere. John McTiernan's fundimental action film is a classic action aventure film that made Bruce Willis an overnight star.New York City cop John Mclane is vacationing over the holidays to see his wife and spend time with his family ,his wife played by Bonnie Bedilia (Holly Gennero).But just as John Mclane is enjoying his vacation a group of terrorists , take over the 30 story highrise and declare war now tired and trapped, he is the only hope for his estranged wife and the other hostiges who are being held by Hans Gruber played by Alan Rickman. John has the experience for mortal combat and antiterrorist tactics his only support is officer Powell a officer that is on the scene. With only a handgun and what he seemingly gets from the terrorists he launches his own one man war with the terrorists. Bleeding and bruised he attacks dissapears and reappears to attack again and with the brains and intelligence of a cop if there's one thing John Mclane is it's that he's hard to kill and as tough as steel taking out the terrorists like flies in a spider web it's only a matter of time before Mclane makes the terrorist his prey. Bruce Willis plays John Mclane with style making him compareable with Clint Eastwoods Dirty Harry but infact this is the best cop movie since the likes of Dirty Harry. The specal edition has fun and interesting options such as an editing feature
where you can edit chosen parts of the film it's as if you have your own film school in Die Hard, other features are sound editing and a vault of deleted scenes and a branching version of the film.If you want an action classic then this film is the one your looking for amazing special effects and incredible action make Die Hard a must have for any DVD owner so get your popcorn buckle up and get ready to be blown out of your chair!.

Extra power, extra punch for an already hard-hitting film
Sure, this first installment of the Die Hard trilogy came to theaters 13 years ago, but to add freshness to this classic action ride, director John McTiernan and his crew technical craftsmen and producers have united to bring the power of INTER-action to the DVD viewer in their own home.

You, the viewer, can examine and re-examine, review and re-edit bits and pieces of the film in the editor's workshop section. Believe me, you've never seen anything like this before. Besides being fun to have the power over what you're manipulating, an added appreciation for the craft of editing is easily achieved. The entire screenplay is also on the second disk, word for word as it originally was handed to the actors. This allows the views to see how the script evolved in the hands of those who made the film. The usual outtakes, bloopers, and deleted scenes are here (fairly standard nowadays), too. Commentary and behind the scenes words from those who were there are also here for your enjoyment.

The best appreciated bonus is the amazing clarity of the digital transfer. Cinematographer Jan de Bont's dark and moody work is seen sharper and clearer than anything which could have been put on a silver screen in any cinema house. The full-bodied sound is spectrually sharp and defined. This is how all film experiences should be.

If you're tired of DVDs which are little more than "theatrical trailer, feature, and scene selection" (and SOOOOO many are just that), then get your hands on this special set right away and see what the DVD experience is all about. For those who don't yet own DVD, this would be the perfect excuse to invest in a player. My only warning would be to not expect all these fabulous goodies on every DVD you buy--for now. I know this set is going to revolutionize the way companies package and "re-package" their upcoming DVD releases.

"Do I sound like I'm ordering a pizza?"
John McTiernan's "Die Hard" is one of the more celebrated entries in the action-adventure genre. Yet, the film upon close inspection is really just another "shoot-'em-up" production that ultimately wears out its welcome long before the final baddie is gunned down.

John McClane (Bruce Willis) is a New York police officer who has arrived in Los Angeles for Christmas. His wife (Bonnie Bedelia) has accepted a vice-president position with Nakatomi Corporation. While McClane is attending a Christmas party at his wife's new office building, a group of terrorists led by Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman) seize the high-rise so that they may steal millions of dollars in negotiable bonds. McClane takes it upon himself to defeat the terrorists and free the hostages they have taken.

"Die Hard" does introduce some novel aspects to the genre - it's a nice change of pace to see an everyman hero instead of the typical secret agent or military super-soldier at the center of an action film, it's nice to see an action hero with a sensitive side, and it's also nice to see a villain with a degree of sophistication. But "Die Hard" intermixes these elements with so many loud explosions and gunfights that one becomes numb after awhile. Throw in too many supporting characters who are deficient in the intelligence department and one inexcusable resurrection at the end, and all you're left with is a film that is great to look at but nothing more. Willis more than proves he can play an action hero and Bedelia adds a welcome degree of charm to the proceedings. Yet, "Die Hard" turns out to be only a smidgen better than its action contemporaries from the period and that is not enough to make it something special.

As Good As Action Gets
In 1988, a film was released that changed the face of action films forever. That film was "Die Hard".

"Die Hard" is, quite simply, as good as an action film can be. Just what makes this movie so different from all the other generic rip-offs out there? "Die Hard" has just the right blend of witty, intelligent writing (yet still not forgetting the profanity), exquisite acting, intense plot twists, and just the right amount of bloody killing. And to top it off, all of this expertly directed at break-neck speed by John McTiernan.

This DVD gives the film a cleaner, newer look, keeping it looking fresh and exciting for the digital era. The sharper picture and sound maybe even add a little something.

After "Die Hard", every action movie was just a wanna-be. They try to mimic what "Die Hard" managed, but never even come close. (This group of films even include the two sequels the film spawned.)

If you're looking for something fun, intense, intelligent, action-packed, and maybe even a little graphic, look no further than the legendary "Die Hard".

Die Hard (1988)
Director: John McTiernan
Cast: Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman, Bonnie Bedalia, Alexander Gudonov, Paul Gleason, William Atherton, Hart Bochner, James Shigeta, Reginald Vel Johnson.
Running Time: 132 minutes.
Rated R for extreme violence, language, and brief nudity.

Fresh of his success with the popular television series "Moonlighting", Bruce Willis takes his stab at the motion picture business with full force. "Die Hard" works on many levels--mainly as an action flick with a powerful leading star that adds a touch of normalcy and humor--but it also discusses more important views such as the criticism of the culturization of Japanese technology that was taking place at the time as well as the horrific, ongoing threat of terrorism. It s a film that shows just how vulnerable any business or workplace really is to a terrible force but also how one man can stand up to the challenge and ultimately make a difference.

John McClane (Willis) is a New York City cop who travels to the Los Angeles area to reconcile with his seperated wife (Bonnie Bedalia) and family, who left him to pursue a lucrative job with a Japanese financial industry skyscraper. While participating in a Christmas Eve party, the building is overtaken by German terrorists who want to use the hostage Japanese executives to break into the company safe. McClane watches as the head terrorist (played brilliantly by Alan Rickman) blows the brains out of the Japenese CEO realizes that the game is on.

With the help of a gun-shy cop (Reginald Vel Johnson--yes, that's right--Mr. Winslow from "Family Matters") and to the annoyance of police chief Paul Gleason, McClane runs around like a chicken with its head cut off attempting to save the hostages. While on the explosive one-man war, Bruce Willis plays McClane in a very believable, humorous fashion--which is the quintessential reason for the film being one of the best of its kind. "Die Hard" is a non-stop frenzy of excellent action sequences, a superb and witty screenplay written by Jeb Stuart and Steven D. de Souza (adapted from the Roderick Thorp novel), and top-notch, edge-of-your-seat direction from McTiernan. The Five Star Collection DVD features a deleted scene and some excellent commentary from cast and crew. One of the best action films of the 1980's. A superb roller-coaster ride of thrills. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Funny, quirky and totally enjoyable
I got this film out on video some years ago and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It doesn't have the most exciting plot in the world but it is a fun film. Arliss Howard plays a youthful looking cop who goes back to school in order to prove his younger brother innocent of the murder of a teacher. However being a student in the 1980s isn't as easy as Arliss hopes it will be and he soon finds himself in trouble with the Principal and fellow students whilst falling in love with his pretty young English teacher. There are some hilarious moments in the film. One such moment happens when he knocks the Principal unconscious and ends up being paddled as punishment. Robert Stack does a great job as the bumbling Principal and his words to Arliss before he paddles him, "This will hurt me more than you," had me in stitches. Also Arliss has to ward off a pretty fellow student who sees him as her next conquest. The overall plot isn't complicated, and it is a little slow moving in parts but it's such a nice film you don't really mind. All the actors are competent and Arliss Howard is great as a cop with a lot on his plate. This is a nice little film that all the family will enjoy and is well worth seeing if you want something that is a little different and fun.

This is a wacky, cameo-filled comedy you've got to see!
If you've already seen this movie, you probably stumbled onto it on cable, or you've worked your way through the comedy section of your video store and figured, "why not?" Most people probably haven't heard of it, but it has enough recognizable actors and an entertaining plot that you'd be missing out not to see it. Arliss Howard is subtly hilarious as a cop reluctantly going undercover to prove his kid brother's innocence of a murder at his high school. Watch this movie with attention to the details, such as the p.a. announcements at school delivered by Robert Stack ("Unsolved Mysteries" fame). You may think the plot doesn't hurry up & get anywhere fast at some points, but I've seen movies that are much more tedious and less humorous. This movie brought Arliss Howard to my attention, and whenever I see him in a new movie (or a movie that's new to me), I remember him as "the guy from PLAIN CLOTHES." Some of those actors you'll recognize who may not get top billing are: Diane Ladd, George Wendt ("Cheers"), Suzy Amis (recently in TITANIC and now involved with director James Cameron), Abe Vigoda, and of course, Robert Stack.

A pleasant surprise - see it!
You've probably never heard of Plain Clothes and may have passed over it hundreds of times in your video store, but it's actually a surprisingly good movie - quirky characters (played by talented, but underrated actors such as Arliss Howard, Susie Amis, Loren Dean etc), crazy plot and a fantastic recitation of e.e. cummings "She being brand" were enough to make me a fan.

An offbeat, B-movie charmer
When his teenage brother is wrongfully accused of murder, Detective Nick Dunbar (Arliss Howard) dons punk garb and heads back to high school in an effort to find the real killer. The mystery deepens as he encounters a host of possible suspects among the faculty and student body, but the whodunit plot twists aren't the main attraction here. Instead, watch Plain Clothes for its sly humor, eccentric characters, and unexpected flashes of insight. The film belongs to Arliss Howard, who turns in a subtle, sexy performance in a well-deserved starring role. Director Martha Coolidge supplies the same sensitivity and good humor that she brought to earlier films like Valley Girl and Real Genius, and the Scott Frank-Dan Vining screenplay creates a memorable assortment of characters and frees them to be as complex and quirky as real people. It's not a perfect film -- the plot grows convoluted and builds to a ridiculous climax -- but its charms well outweigh its flaws. Plain Clothes didn't win any Oscars or set any box office records, but it'll make you smile. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Much better than your average cop-and-dog movie (e.g., K-9), Turner and Hooch is really a love story about a control freak (Tom Hanks) who gradually resigns to the messy chaos of a sweet hulk of a pooch named Hooch. The excuse for this relationship is that the dog can identify a murderer and Hanks needs him, but the film is really about such hilarious moments as Hanks bathing Hooch with a long brush, and a wild chase through the streets when the sharp-eyed mutt spots his suspect. Layered over this is a healthy love story between Hanks and animal vet Mare Winningham, who share a terribly sexy scene together--while fully clothed--doing no more than making breakfast. (Hanks directed this scene, though Roger Spottiswoode directed the rest of the movie.) --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (26)

Cute Movie!
Turner and Hooch is a cute movie starring Tom Hank's as a neurotic cop who likes every thing to always be neat and organized having his life changed when he has to guard a messy, slobbery but loveable dog named Hooch who is a murder witness and has to take the dog home with him and at first Hooch drives him crazy but he soon grows to like the old pooch!

Tom Hanks Best Movie....Turner And Hooch.
This movie is by far Hanks' best film to date. His awe inspiring performance is mezmorizing. His on screen releationship with Hooch is titilating. Without a doubt, one of the best movies of all time. It has a little something for everyone.....with a very, very sad ending. You'll laugh, you'll cry. But all in all you will walk away with a little Hooch in you.

I have seen this movie a hundred or so times and I keep wishing that the movie just mind end a little different. Please Mr. Director....there has to be an alternate ending. Can't wait for a sequel.

An all time favorite
There are few movies as wonderful as this (OK, being a big dog lover helps). I thought Tom Hanks did a fabulous job, and I enjoyed him much better in those days then I do now. Hootch was the best dog actor I've ever seen. No looking over at the trainer all the time, at least that we could see.

I want to buy this DVD, but I can't see if there is a commentary or any extras.

sad ending
All the humor and amusing antics of the script go completely out the window when Hooch dies at the end. Bah! Kill Hanks but not the dog!

Funniest movies of all time
This is such a good movie, I keep watching it often. Only funnier movie I ever saw was Rat Race. Buy it an d be happy. ... Read more

Reviews (189)

Die Hard is one fast spectacular wild ride.
This is it the masterful film that started all terrorist films and gave them a genere. John McTiernan's fundimental action film is a classic action aventure film that made Bruce Willis an overnight star.New York City cop John Mclane is vacationing over the holidays to see his wife and spend time with his family ,his wife played by Bonnie Bedilia (Holly Gennero).But just as John Mclane is enjoying his vacation a group of terrorists , take over the 30 story highrise and declare war now tired and trapped, he is the only hope for his estranged wife and the other hostiges who are being held by Hans Gruber played by Alan Rickman. John has the experience for mortal combat and antiterrorist tactics his only support is officer Powell a officer that is on the scene. With only a handgun and what he seemingly gets from the terrorists he launches his own one man war with the terrorists. Bleeding and bruised he attacks dissapears and reappears to attack again and with the brains and intelligence of a cop if there's one thing John Mclane is it's that he's hard to kill and as tough as steel taking out the terrorists like flies in a spider web it's only a matter of time before Mclane makes the terrorist his prey. Bruce Willis plays John Mclane with style making him compareable with Clint Eastwoods Dirty Harry but infact this is the best cop movie since the likes of Dirty Harry. The specal edition has fun and interesting options such as an editing feature
where you can edit chosen parts of the film it's as if you have your own film school in Die Hard, other features are sound editing and a vault of deleted scenes and a branching version of the film.If you want an action classic then this film is the one your looking for amazing special effects and incredible action make Die Hard a must have for any DVD owner so get your popcorn buckle up and get ready to be blown out of your chair!.

Extra power, extra punch for an already hard-hitting film
Sure, this first installment of the Die Hard trilogy came to theaters 13 years ago, but to add freshness to this classic action ride, director John McTiernan and his crew technical craftsmen and producers have united to bring the power of INTER-action to the DVD viewer in their own home.

You, the viewer, can examine and re-examine, review and re-edit bits and pieces of the film in the editor's workshop section. Believe me, you've never seen anything like this before. Besides being fun to have the power over what you're manipulating, an added appreciation for the craft of editing is easily achieved. The entire screenplay is also on the second disk, word for word as it originally was handed to the actors. This allows the views to see how the script evolved in the hands of those who made the film. The usual outtakes, bloopers, and deleted scenes are here (fairly standard nowadays), too. Commentary and behind the scenes words from those who were there are also here for your enjoyment.

The best appreciated bonus is the amazing clarity of the digital transfer. Cinematographer Jan de Bont's dark and moody work is seen sharper and clearer than anything which could have been put on a silver screen in any cinema house. The full-bodied sound is spectrually sharp and defined. This is how all film experiences should be.

If you're tired of DVDs which are little more than "theatrical trailer, feature, and scene selection" (and SOOOOO many are just that), then get your hands on this special set right away and see what the DVD experience is all about. For those who don't yet own DVD, this would be the perfect excuse to invest in a player. My only warning would be to not expect all these fabulous goodies on every DVD you buy--for now. I know this set is going to revolutionize the way companies package and "re-package" their upcoming DVD releases.

"Do I sound like I'm ordering a pizza?"
John McTiernan's "Die Hard" is one of the more celebrated entries in the action-adventure genre. Yet, the film upon close inspection is really just another "shoot-'em-up" production that ultimately wears out its welcome long before the final baddie is gunned down.

John McClane (Bruce Willis) is a New York police officer who has arrived in Los Angeles for Christmas. His wife (Bonnie Bedelia) has accepted a vice-president position with Nakatomi Corporation. While McClane is attending a Christmas party at his wife's new office building, a group of terrorists led by Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman) seize the high-rise so that they may steal millions of dollars in negotiable bonds. McClane takes it upon himself to defeat the terrorists and free the hostages they have taken.

"Die Hard" does introduce some novel aspects to the genre - it's a nice change of pace to see an everyman hero instead of the typical secret agent or military super-soldier at the center of an action film, it's nice to see an action hero with a sensitive side, and it's also nice to see a villain with a degree of sophistication. But "Die Hard" intermixes these elements with so many loud explosions and gunfights that one becomes numb after awhile. Throw in too many supporting characters who are deficient in the intelligence department and one inexcusable resurrection at the end, and all you're left with is a film that is great to look at but nothing more. Willis more than proves he can play an action hero and Bedelia adds a welcome degree of charm to the proceedings. Yet, "Die Hard" turns out to be only a smidgen better than its action contemporaries from the period and that is not enough to make it something special.

As Good As Action Gets
In 1988, a film was released that changed the face of action films forever. That film was "Die Hard".

"Die Hard" is, quite simply, as good as an action film can be. Just what makes this movie so different from all the other generic rip-offs out there? "Die Hard" has just the right blend of witty, intelligent writing (yet still not forgetting the profanity), exquisite acting, intense plot twists, and just the right amount of bloody killing. And to top it off, all of this expertly directed at break-neck speed by John McTiernan.

This DVD gives the film a cleaner, newer look, keeping it looking fresh and exciting for the digital era. The sharper picture and sound maybe even add a little something.

After "Die Hard", every action movie was just a wanna-be. They try to mimic what "Die Hard" managed, but never even come close. (This group of films even include the two sequels the film spawned.)

If you're looking for something fun, intense, intelligent, action-packed, and maybe even a little graphic, look no further than the legendary "Die Hard".

Die Hard (1988)
Director: John McTiernan
Cast: Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman, Bonnie Bedalia, Alexander Gudonov, Paul Gleason, William Atherton, Hart Bochner, James Shigeta, Reginald Vel Johnson.
Running Time: 132 minutes.
Rated R for extreme violence, language, and brief nudity.

Fresh of his success with the popular television series "Moonlighting", Bruce Willis takes his stab at the motion picture business with full force. "Die Hard" works on many levels--mainly as an action flick with a powerful leading star that adds a touch of normalcy and humor--but it also discusses more important views such as the criticism of the culturization of Japanese technology that was taking place at the time as well as the horrific, ongoing threat of terrorism. It s a film that shows just how vulnerable any business or workplace really is to a terrible force but also how one man can stand up to the challenge and ultimately make a difference.

John McClane (Willis) is a New York City cop who travels to the Los Angeles area to reconcile with his seperated wife (Bonnie Bedalia) and family, who left him to pursue a lucrative job with a Japanese financial industry skyscraper. While participating in a Christmas Eve party, the building is overtaken by German terrorists who want to use the hostage Japanese executives to break into the company safe. McClane watches as the head terrorist (played brilliantly by Alan Rickman) blows the brains out of the Japenese CEO realizes that the game is on.

With the help of a gun-shy cop (Reginald Vel Johnson--yes, that's right--Mr. Winslow from "Family Matters") and to the annoyance of police chief Paul Gleason, McClane runs around like a chicken with its head cut off attempting to save the hostages. While on the explosive one-man war, Bruce Willis plays McClane in a very believable, humorous fashion--which is the quintessential reason for the film being one of the best of its kind. "Die Hard" is a non-stop frenzy of excellent action sequences, a superb and witty screenplay written by Jeb Stuart and Steven D. de Souza (adapted from the Roderick Thorp novel), and top-notch, edge-of-your-seat direction from McTiernan. The Five Star Collection DVD features a deleted scene and some excellent commentary from cast and crew. One of the best action films of the 1980's. A superb roller-coaster ride of thrills. ... Read more

Reviews (66)

Suprisingly Weak
The first, and worst, sequel to Die Hard, is terrorised by the same plot as the original. While waiting for his wife's plane to arrive at Dulles Airport (on Xmas Eve), McClane notices a few suspicious exchanges between a group of men amidst the busy yuletide passengers.

Before you know he is neck deep in trouble with an army of mercenaries, led by Colonel Stewart (William Sadler), who are hell-bent on setting free a corrupt South American General/Drug Baron (Franco Nero). There are more bad guys than before. And more suspension of disbelief is required.

There are so many plot holes and illogical moments that the film almost drowns in its own absurdity. But there is enough action and stunts to cancel it out and distract our attention. Though they not presented in a breathtaking or memorable way. It's all too generic and a bit mean-spirited. No audience nowadays would be satisfied with it so prepare yourself for 80's violence.

William Sadler and Franco Nero lack the callous efficiency of Alan Rickman. And a hero can only be measured by his nemesis. But most of the time McClane is just capping off nameless mercs. How boring. Tho this should not be blamed on Sadler, he has a threatening and intense presence and as he has proved himself in movies like Trespass and Demon Knight. Too bad his character here is so badly written and underdeveloped. I'm sorry but blowing up 250 people off-screen to show how evil you are just won't cut it.

This was Renny Harlin's second movie of 1990 (the other was Ford Fairlain) and it is without a doubt the movie that made him a certified action director. It was a tough, and huge, movie to pull off. He just pulled it off with no particular charm. Though he does a wonderful job of capturing the look and feel of an East Coast winter. The wide-open snowfields and ice-covered runways will definitely make you feel chilly.

Although this is another problem. The first Die Hard worked entirely within the space of Nakatomi Plaza. It was claustrophobic and almost plausible. The scale and scope of Die Hard 2 is too big for its own good. Similar to the problems of ID4, the staples of reality are ripped out with ignorance and over-confidence. The bulk of the film is nothing but one dumb action scene after another. It doesn't make for coherent viewing.

Die Hard 2 is a definite lag in between both of McTiernan's very strong outings. By today's standards it seems dated and very 90's. Which is a shame considering the original and 'With A Vengeance' are, in a way, 'timeless'. It's movies like this that inspired 'Last Action Hero'.

Filmed in Panavision, the 2.35:1 anamorphic picture is superb looking with true blacks (a lot of this film is set at night) and nice fleshtones. Fire effects and colors look beautifully orange and overall the quality is top notch aside from a few instances of minor pixelation.

The gunshots are loud and ferocious in both the Dolby Digital and DTS tracks. All explosions and every punch and kick are rendered with amazing clarity. Some of the surrounds tend to stick to mono but the plane crash in the middle of the movie will convince it is actually happening in your living room. Dialogue scenes tend to stick to the front speaker and the musical score by Michael Kamen is well recorded and is sure to excite.

Renny Harlin's commentary is much more interesting that John McTiernan's fatigued and labored effort on the first movie. Harlin talks about the characters more and how he prefers his movies to be in terms of motivation and why characters should smoke only if it is necessary. Among other things. Such as how many of the effects he did then, in many different ways, would be so much quicker and easier to do today in Digital CGI.

The Featurette was made for Fox TV back in 1990 and it is a bit better than the usual, self-congratulatory nonsense that bogs down most featurettes. But it still can't resist talking about how 'great' the movie is. Tho thanks to this extra we now know that most of the snow in the movie is shredded soap. A second, 4-minute, Featurette is basically an extended trailer.

There are a few deleted scenes that are not that interesting and it's easy to see why they were cut from the film. Although the alternate scene on how McClane gets to the Annex Skywalk (The Boiler Room) is quite cool.

The interview with Renny Harlin and the Villain's Profile are promotional titbits in which they discuss how to direct a high-concept sequel and how to be an evil bad guy.

Behind the scenes and storyboards focuses on 2 scenes. The first is 'Breaking the Ice' and the second is 'Chaos on the Conveyor Belt'. The storyboard and film comparison is for the 'Skywalk Ambush' sequence.

Visual effects breakdowns explore, in great length and tedious, repetitive slo-mo, the Ejector seat scene and the Airport Runway. These are basically green-screen evolutions. The other model effects scenes broken down are 'Chopper', 'Airplane Models' and 'Wing Fight'.

Fast-paced follow-up fueled by thrills...
While not as original or inspired as the first, "Die Hard 2: Die Harder" is still an action-packed, slick movie with twists and turns fit for a roller-coaster ride of pure mayhem! Bruce Willis reprises his role as John McClane, this time in trouble at a Washington D.C. airport, where terrorists have taken the air traffic control captive. With McClane's wife on one of the stranded planes, our hero races to kick the butts of the bad guys once again! This is a worthy follow-up to the 80s hit film, with some cool action sequences and some pretty decent scripting.

Almost as good as the original
Count me among the few, it seems, who believe DIE HARD 2 to be almost as good as the original DIE HARD. I personally don't understand why this sequel always seems to be undervalued in favor of the jaggedly uneven, incoherent DIE HARD WITH A VENGEANCE.

Certainly DIE HARD 2 is not as good as the original. It lacks the first film's grittiness and claustrophobic atmosphere (but of course a loss of the latter was expected when the scriptwriters expanded the playing field to an entire airport as opposed to one floor of a highrise); its villain is no match for DIE HARD's subtly chilling Hans Gruber; and director Renny Harlin disappointingly favors action over those little human touches that so distinguished the original, insteading favoring more action. (Besides, couldn't the screenwriters have come up with a more creative plot than simply recycling the general structure of the original? But hey, this is a Hollywood product, where it's best not to take too many chances in the quest to cash-in on a big success, which DIE HARD certainly was.)

All that being said, the action sequences are undeniably thrilling---the action of the second half, particularly, moves so quickly from one great setpiece to another that the momentum never lets up 'til the very end---and Bruce Willis is just as good as he was in the original, proving that he will always be John McClane in my mind. All in all, DIE HARD 2 is arguably even MORE entertaining viscerally than DIE HARD.

In short, DIE HARD will forever be a genre classic, but DIE HARD 2 is a worthy sequel when it comes to pure action---and when you are talking about action movies, isn't the action what's really important anyway?

A fan's review
I would like to start by pointing out that this movie gets a lot of crap. A LOT. This is in no way as bad as the reviews may make you think, and in fact this is my favorite Die Hard film.

I'm a huge fan of the series. I've seen them all plenty of times, and this one stands out for me. I'm not the only one, either; Ebert also claims this to be the greatest Die Hard. You've heard the same complaints about this movie a thousand times, I'm sure of it. But what tends to be left out is the amazing special effects, the truely die hard enemies, and the perfectly directed action scenes. This was directed by a different director than the other two blockbusters. Die Hard 2 also made the most money at the box offices. It really is the best!

Overreaches but still exciting
While this installment is the weakest of the three, it still has some exciting moments. All in all, I think the film tried so hard to top the first (best) Die Hard film, that the failure is that much more evident.

The characterizations are not as well fleshed-out as in the others. The action scenes become predictable and less exciting as the movie progresses.

I had to laugh at one of the BIGGEST continuity flaws I've ever witnessed in a big-budget movie: the plane that crashes is forced to the ground by lack of fuel. Why, then, does it explode in a HUGE fireball if it's out of gas? Somebody screwed up. ... Read more

Reviews (25)

Intriguing political horror movie, but short on scares
1981 was "The Great Werewolf Year," when three major films heralded a revival of the legendary monster. "The Howling" and "An American Werewolf in London" have both become classics, while the third, "Wolfen," remains an oddity. It is definitely the strangest of the three and makes unusual changes to the werewolf mythology to the point that it might not be about werewolves at all. The usual standards of the genre -- silver bullets, wolfsbane, transformations, curses -- are nowhere to be seen, although there are hints of spiritual powers and cunning intelligence beyond the natural world. And while "American Werewolf in London" and "The Howling" contained extensive comedy and many genre-references along with their horror, "Wolfen" plays its story straight and dead serious. It has social issues mixed into its thrills 'n' chills premise: a police detective (Albert Finney) investigating murders in New York City that point toward a wolf-like killer, or possibly a whole pack of them. Director Michael Wadleigh (his only other film is the classic concert documentary "Woodstock") uses the horror movie backdrop as a venue for commentary on class, environmentalism, industrialization, and Native American politics.

This is an ambitious bill to fill, and "Wolfen" doesn't quite manage to pull it off. You can appreciate Wadleigh's goals, but he often trips over trying to do too much. The political grandstanding makes for a thoughtful horror movie, but it also slows the film down and overbalances it. Sometimes, you just want action and scares, and "Wolfen" frequently drags. It would have rocked at ninety-minutes, but at nearly two hours, it goes on for too long. The open moves rapidly, and the ending delivers the right amount of apocalyptic violence you expect, but in the center the spaces between the wolf attacks start feeling longer and longer.

Some of various elements never fit together, and a few plot points just left on the ground. The mystery surrounding the creatures is, however, appropriate -- sometimes it's better for a horror film to avoid spelling out everything for you.

Where "Wolfen" works best is in Wadleigh's superb visual style and the realistic performances. The use of a polarization effect and a steadicam to represent the wolves' POV is quite stunning and eerie. Wadleigh also expertly films New York City and its run-down slums. The film absolutely breathes with a battered, decayed atmosphere. Wadleigh really goes all out with unusual visua; approaches, and it gives the film a polished and inventive feel. Albert Finney and Diane Venora are both good in their roles; Finney especially projects a wonderful world-weariness that matches the setting around him. The film thankfully doesn't load him down with excess psychological baggage. We don't need to have his troubles explained to us; we can SEE them in the world in which he lives. Edward James Olmos is also memorable as a Native American who draws Finney's suspicions early in the movie. Gregory Hines, however, is too exaggerated in his semi-comic role (the only comedy in the film) of the coroner working with Finney. The movie also has an excellent early score from James Horner (composer of "Titanic" and "Aliens").

The DVD has an extremely good transfer, which is surprising considering the film's age. The print looks almost pristine and is gorgeously formatted in widescreen. Warner Bros. usually doesn't put this much effort into back catalog movies like this. The Dolby Surround Stereo is adequate (I occasionally noticed some synch problems) and a bit low in volume. The extras are skimpy: the trailer, a page listing the cast and crew, and a few screens of text on the history of werewolf movies. (An earlier edition advertised audio commentary on the back of the snap case, but this was a misprint.)

"Wolfen" is worth a look for horror fans, or people who want some social commentary and intelligence with their thrills. If you can make it through the slower sections, you'll find it a rewarding viewing experience.

Gothic Horror book turns into Horrendous Film
I gave this one star because that's as low as this site goes. I was so absolutely taken with Whitley Streiber's novel that I could hardly wait for the film to come out. Talk about disappointment - I could hardly sit through the appalling drivel unfolding on the screen.I'm not a violent person but if I'd had the director/ screenplay writer within reach I believe I'd have killed them stone dead.
Admittedly, the title is the same and there are wolves involved but there the resemblance to the book ends. I hope Whitley Streiber was well paid for the butchering of his fine book and that he gives to a lot of charities.
Michael Wadleigh apparently directed this movie and unsurprisingly he never directed a movie again other than a couple of documentaries about Woodstock. He now works as a bus driver in Akron, Ohio.
If his bus driving is the same as his directing and screenplay then I'll go by cab.

Dave W

Terrible book 2 movie!
i wish i could say i enjoyed this movie but if you read the book this movie is insulting to the original plot! Ok we know that movies have to divert from the novel but this was unreal. The novel based these creatures as been highly evolved and down right errie looking canines that appeared half ape half wolf ( the best way i can describe them ). So i sit down excited to see that one of my fav all time books is a movie and i find out they minaly used german shepards !!!! Please people and the story had been terribly distorted till hardly any of it's atmosphere and true scary momments were left. Not to say the movie didnt have the odd errie scene but they were few and far between. The novel set these creatures as deadly hunters in our midst for centuries hunting our weak and sick without us knowing. This in my mind was quite a scary notion and we thought them men turned into wolves because of their intelligence that matched our own. The writer created a rich and moody atmosphere and in my mind totally original plotlines. The movie toke all that goodness and basically ditched most of it! Unless your amused by DOGS running around and in the end them vanishing in what can only be described as a terrible ending ( these creatures were flesh and blood in the novel not wiggy spirits ) dont waste your time i LOVE werewolf flicks and believe me it's not often i say such negative things about a film but this is a BAD movie even if you you are unaware of the injustice it did the novel it's still a silly and badly made flick!

Read The Book Instead
As much as I would like to say this was a great horror movie, it, unfortunately, falls far short of the potential of the genuine feeling of fear created by the book it was based on. I have no objection to the actors, they all did a good job with the script they were given, and the adaption was even acceptable. My major problem with this movie wasin the use of GERMAN SHEPARDS, for god's sake, to represent the canine equivalent of man on the evolutionary scale. The whole point of the story was that a branch of canines had evolved as far as man had evolved from apes, and had kept themselves hidden from mankind for all these years, feeding on the weak and the sick among us, never allowing themselves to be discovered except in the legends of werewolves and devils of the night. Tn the book, it was presented as though it were both possible and likely. In the moviy, the wolfen were no more frightning than a pack of feral dogs hanging around a city dump.

Absolutle horror satisfaction!!!
I loved it. What a great movie. Wolfen is scary and it has that dark and slow plot that makes it effective. Just do not get attached to many of the main characters. The plot is quite original, and if ever was remade by todays standards would become an instant hit. Too bad it is very underrated. The last fifteen minutes or so of the movie happens suddenly, and man, it will raise the hair on the back of your neck. Are they real or not? You answer that question by seeing this movie. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Mario Van Peebles directed as well as starred in this ham-fisted, 1993 Western with a predominantly African American cast. The story finds a posse of black shooters (with one white member, played by Stephen Baldwin) taking on a racist sheriff and military man, but Van Peebles's effort at mixing convention with hip credentials gets pretty grating. (Tone Loc makes the worst cowboy in film history.) The film is also incredibly sexist, going well beyond the usual frontier-floozy clichés and lapsing into the sort of blatant exploitation one found at that time in rap-music videos. There are lots of cameo appearances from familiar folks willing to support Van Peebles on a project that probably sounded like a mix of experiment and event--Pam Grier, Isaac Hayes, Woody Strode, and the director's father, Melvin Van Peebles. But even they can't help. --Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (10)

A popcorn movie that teaches. We need more like this.
Mario Van Peebles "Posse" is a movie with flaws, but it treats its source material with respect. Unlike the shallow and silly "Rosewood" Van Peebles "Posse" gives viewers a clear picture of what life was like for African-American cowboys at the turn of the century. We get to know characters in the story. The production values are low budget, and several roles are miscast, but Van Peebles' heart is in every second of this film. He loves the material and wants us to learn as much about these forgotten black heroes as he has. Part "spaghetti western", part action flick, part historical drama, Posse is a lot of fun to watch. Mario Van Peebles, Billy Zane, Melvin Van Peebles and Salli Richardson in her first role are great. Tis one is worth owining for your collection.

Brings Old West Back to Life
Mario Van Peebles Posse' brought a new perspective about the west. This was the first western in many years to feature a predominately African-American cast. Stephen Baldwin was great in his potrayal of Lil' Jay. Very educational movie.

Better than the "editorial review" thinks it is
Tom Keogh, whomever he may be, is quite mistaken about the quality of Mario Van Peebles film, which is somewhat more than simply a "black western." Despite the "camp" appearances of several black celebrities, Peebles brings to the film an arresting visual quality and an iconoclastic, unmistakably "dark" [no pun intended] perspective on How the West Was Lost, which is one of the biggest tragedies of American history. The historical background is suitably complex, tieing in references to the Spanish-American War. Although the lead character's gunslinging talents are made too much of, this is far from cliche.

Correcting History.
Mario Van Peebles directed and starred in this film about a group of African-American soldiers (and one white one) on the run from a corrupt military officer. The officer (Billy Zane) had the posse steal some gold from Cuba during the Spanish-American War. He planned to kill them afterwards, but the group proved stronger than he thought and they escaped. They come back to the states and follow Jesse (Van Peebles) to the dream town of his deceased father in west Texas. Jesse has some inner demons to silence and they won't be still until he has settled an aged score.

The film is interesting. However, the movie relies heavily upon typical Western cliches which dampen some of the it's uniqueness. Nevertheless, the film does raise awareness about all the black cowboys and settlers that were so instrumental in taming the West that most people don't even know existed. An educational film that is quite entertaining to watch.

The Posse
This is the best movie ever made! The best character in this movie was Little J played by Stephen Baldwin! I dont own the DVD version though, I have the VHS! I'm Looking forward to having the DVD just to brag about it to all my friends! ... Read more

Description

This lively, spirit-lifting musical celebrates the sheer joy - and survival - of black music, song and poetry since the days of America's Civil War. With utter grace and ease, the gifted eight-member singing ensemble glides from gospel to disco and from slave quarter sermons to contemporary black poetry. Stars TonyÂ's Civil War. With utter grace and ease, the gifted eight-member singing ensemble glides from gospel to disco and from slave quarter sermons to contemporary black poetry. Stars Tony® - winners Cleavant Derricks (Dreamgirls) and the late Lynne Thigpen (An American Daughter, The District).By Vinette Carroll. ... Read more