Live Free or Die Hard
a.k.a. “Die Hard 4,” “Vivere o morire,” “Legdrágább az életed,” “Retour en enfer,” “Poly skliros gia na pethanei 4.0,” “Smrtonosná pasca 4.0,” “Stirb langsam 4.0,” “Umri muski 4.0,” “Vis libre ou crève,” “Visa hing 4” MPAA Rating:
 for intense sequences of violence and action, language and a brief sexual situationReviewed by: John DeYoung Average
Moviemaking Quality:
Adults, Teens
Primary Audience:
Adults
Genre:
Thriller, Action, Crime, Sequel
Length:
2 hr. 10 min.
Year of Release:
2007
USA Release:
June 27, 2007 (wide)
     Maggie Q of “Mission: Impossible III” (2006), “Rush Hour 2” (2001)
       Relevant Issues
 How does viewing violence in movies affect the family? Answer
“Yippee Ki Yay!” The man who is always at the wrong place at the wrong time is back. Bruce Willis returns as Detective John McClane in the fourth installment of the highly successful “Die Hard” series, “Live Free and Die Hard.” McClane is back on New York’s finest as a senior detective to take on cyber terrorists who want to shut down the entire eastcoast infrastructure. Heading up this evil organization is Thomas Gabriel (played by Deadwood’s Timothy Olyphant), who was a former NSA agent that tried to convince the Joint Chiefs how easy it is to shut down a country. After being ousted by the government, Gabriel takes revenge and causes chaos and mass calamity across the nation. However, Gabriel never thought that a wise-cracking cop with a never-say-die attitude would gum up his plan. Along with trying to stop Gabriel and his computer cronies, McClane must also protect a computer hacker, Matt Farrell (portrayed by Apple Mac computer guy, Justin Long), who unknowingly helped in Gabriel’s cyber scheme. Now Gabriel wants Farrell dead, but McClane needs Farrell’s computer skills to help stop Gabriel before he turns the country into anarchy. With all of this happening, McClane is also trying to establish a relationship with his daughter, Lucy (played by “Black Christmas” star Mary Elizabeth Winstead), who winds up being Gabriel’s bait for McClane. Will this old school detective be able to take down this new kind of criminal? It has been 12 years since we’ve seen Bruce Willis as John McClane, and let me tell you, he hasn’t lost his step. It was like seeing an old friend again, doing what he does best. If Willis was doing most of his stunts, as he claims he did in various interviews, than Willis’ athleticism at the age of 52 hasn’t changed much since he first took on the role. The man took a licking and kept on ticking. As for Willis recapturing McClane’s demeanor and character once again, 12 years seemed like it was just a few months ago. The McClane laugh, style, attitude and humor were back like it never left. It was fantastic. When Willis was asked why people should shovel out the shekels to see this flick, his reply was, ”It’s like looking at a visual rollercoaster,” and how right he was. This is an adrenaline pumping, heart-racing picture that keeps you on the edge of your seat. A lot of people thought that the PG-13 rating, instead of the R-rating like its predecessors, might take away the tone and the intensity of this latest chapter, I can unequivocally say that, if it did anything, it made it better. Even his moniker line, Yippee Kai Yay, M.F. was cut off at the last part, but how it was cut was pure genius. Keep in mind, there is still quite a bit of profanity in it, but not as bad as what it could have been. If anything, with all the action taking place, you don’t even really notice it. What is also interesting is how the writers managed to combine a “Die Hard” type of scenario with computer crimes. How is an old school cop, who doesn’t know squat about computers, going to stop a cyber criminal? In this case, cleverly. The one thing that definitely worked was teaming the tough, rugged, wise-cracking McClane up with the cowardly, sarcastic, computer savvy Farrell, making them the perfect brain and brawn combination. While Farrell and Gabriel have their, what I call, keyboard wars, McClane is knocking out Gabriel’s gun totting goons and his attractive, butt-kicking assistant, Mai Lihn (played by “Mission: Impossible 3” star Maggie Q). Together the actors and the characters have such a better chemistry than with his last unwilling partner, Zeus Carver (played by Samuel L. Jackson) in “Die Hard With A Vengeance.” What also helped was getting the right actor to play Farrell, and picking Justin Long was a perfect fit. It’s ironic that they got the Apple PC spokesman to play the hacker, but thinking about it, I really can’t think of anyone else who that could fit the persona and make it believable. I didn’t think it was possible to mix a “War Games” (Mathew Broderick flick) type of drama into “Die Hard” type of action, but the combination comes together beautifully. No matter what angle it comes from, you always get high octane action and suspense. My compliments to writer, Mike Bomback, on putting together a story, which, at first hearing, I thought couldn’t be done (or done well). He surprised me. What is also made evident is how this country is totally dependent on computers. Not only did Bomback give me a plot that I thought couldn’t go together, but he gave me a story that made me think about how we rely on technology too much and how that reliability could be our downfall. Speaking of downfalls, some of the stunts and action sequences were just a little too far-fetched. One in particular is McClane hanging off the tail end of an F-15 fighter plane while the pilot ejects. I don’t think so. The other thing is with McClane’s daughter. When McClane first meets up with her, she tells her Dad that her last name is Gennerro, but when Daddy is coming to the rescue, she introduces herself to Farrell as Lucy McClane. I don’t know if this was like a tribute to the first movie or just something they felt they needed to do again. To me, if you want to keep something new and fresh, don’t use old material. “Live Free or Die Hard” is one you should put down on your summer movie, must-see list. All the elements that made the “Die Hard” franchise so popular are in this last incarnation, so if you are looking for a “visual rollercoaster,” as Mr. Willis put it, I highly encourage you to see McClane back in action. Yippee Kai Yay! I know. Overkill. On a grading scale, I give “Live Free or Die Hard” a B+. Violence: Extreme / Profanity: Heavy / Sex/Nudity: None   Comments available:
Positive
Positive - I enjoyed this latest “Die Hard” flick, but let me add that this is NOT a PG-13 movie. The amount and intensity of violence makes it an R-film hands down. I cannot believe the studio got away with the PG-13 rating. I heard children in the theater gasp or yelp at the really terrible and vicious killings. It is also very suspenseful, possibly too much so for children. We have good old Bruce Willis again in good form with his laconic humor and, of course, the action is fast and furious, although the many escapes from death are preposterous. What impressed me the most about this movie was the subject matter, namely, the security of all our electronically run systems that if compromised by our enemies would cripple life for everyone in this country in every way. Terribly important subject. I hope the government powers are aware of the ideas dramatized in this movie and have taken the necessary precautions. Very serious and timely theme. Positive - Very exciting movie and fun to watch. Bruce Willis and Justin Long are a great team, and the plot is excellent. I highly recommend it!! Positive - Took my family and teen sons to see it on opening night. Quite enjoyable. Special affects were excellent. Very little profanity (no f-bombs), few uses of the Lords name. Father figure is portrayed in a positive light, deeply concerned (above all else) for his daughter's safety (morally and physically). No spiritual content whatsoever. Opening scene could have been toned down a bit (not sexually explicit, but still rather unnecessary). Lots of violence, but very little blood. No limbs whacked off. If you want to see an action thriller, I highly recommend this movie. Positive - I really enjoyed “Live Free or Die Hard.” There was a lot of action, with some comedy mixed in. I like Bruce Willis and the majority of his movies. This movie was somewhat violent, with some language, but, other than that, a superb movie with great actors! Positive - What a thrill ride! Besides a somewhat stagnant middle(ish) act, this latest installment in the “Die Hard” franchise is a pulse-pounding action movie! Great stunts, great comic timing, and good characters all make it worthwhile. My only beef with this movie is the weak villain. Timothy Olyphant did well playing the role of a bud in “Dreamcatcher” or “Rock Star,” but he lacks the depth or complexity of a good antagonist. He lacks some of the villain trademarks—pointy chin, devious eyes, wry grin, etc. In the second half of the movie, Olyphant seems to tear up every time his temper flares. Weak, if you ask me. Not at all intimidating. A finer choice for this role would have been Cillian Murphy, though a bit young, Gary Busey, though a bit old, or even ol' Cary Elwes. Positive - I enjoyed this film far more than I thought I would. I can honestly say I’ve never had more fun in a movie theater before. While this film isn’t “perfect” (sometimes unbelievable, not flawless acting—though very good), a more enjoyable film would be hard to come by. If you’re looking for a FUN summer action movie, look no further. This is the 'must see' of the summer. I actually enjoyed this more than “Pirates: At World’s End” and “Spider-Man 3” (which I LOVED). Highly recommended! Positive - This was an excellent movie. My husband and I have always been “Die Hard” fans and this sequel was worth waiting for. We saw it twice in two days. It was action from start to finish. Bruce Willis has a way with one liners that will make you remember them for a long time. Of course, the movie has some bad language, but other than that it is a very clean movie. I would highly recommend it for anybody that loves action movies. This is the best one I have seen in a long time. We always love a movie where good triumphs over evil, as it will always do! Positive - Very entertaining. A non-stop action film that did what it was designed to do and did it very well. There were no pedantic diversions to talk about Hollywood’s latest issues of the day. There was plenty of violence, but no gore, and sometimes the laws of physics had to be suspended, but it was all a great diversion. As a Christian in Los Angeles, I may be numbed by life here, but I did not find the movie offensive. I knew there would be violence, but it was not over the top. And I would not recommend it for preteens. But in the end, good guys beat the bad guys by sheer doggedness and life resumes. Positive - I was surprised how good this movie was! The effects were really well done, I was on the edge of my seat a good portion of the movie. Yes, there is violence and some language, but not nearly as bad as the previous movies. There was one kissing scene at the beginning, but nothing happened. Great for adults and older teens. Positive - Unlike the other three Die Hards, the swearing was far less and there was some, but not a lot of sexual content, just in the beginning. The action was vintage “Die Hard.” The movie making quality was outstanding. The only negative is when the Lord’s name was used in vain and the making out in the car.This movie proves that our country is open to terrorism even through computers. This movie may not be suitable for children, because of the swearing and the making-out scene. However, this movie also shows men in a positive way instead of them getting used and abused as other movies portray. Positive - I’m a Die Hard fan and couldn’t wait to see this film. It held up to my expectations and more. Like the critic said, John McClane didn’t miss a beat. Bruce Willis and the other actors were fantastic. Must see for any older teen or adult. Positive - I’m a 25 year old mom, and I LOVED IT!!! While many of the stunts are totally unrealistic, they obviously went our of their way to make this movie TASTEFULLY. I can’t remember any gratuitous language or blood. NOTHING thrown in unnecessarily. Just a great plot told very well. Exactly what going to the movies is about. Positive - This was a pretty good movie for an action flick. There is one scene near the beginning in which a boy is groping a young woman’s chest (over her clothing). Ignoring this scene, I felt the movie was very entertaining. The PG-13 rating is accurate. I would not recommend this movie to children and teens, but it is a fairly clean movie for adults. Also, I have NOT seen the other “Die Hard” movies, but one does not need to in order to view this film. Positive - Just putting in my two cents worth. First off, great review of the film, LIVE FREE OR DIE HARD. John DeYoung, looks like you know your stuff. For a Christian, you know your McClane and the Apple Guy to Miss Maggie Q’s resume. This is one of the best reviews I have seen in a while. Also I like to point out John Stouffer’s comment. Mr. Stouffer’s regard is a shining example of how a Christian should be—not judgmental. Positive - …I have always been a fan of the 'Die Hard' films. This is the best of the lot. The action scenes are spectacular and the cast is great, especially Willis and Timothy Olyphant, who plays the head of the terrorist group. However, I do have some slight moral objections. There is some profanity, but, not near as strong as in the other three films. Even McClane’s signature line is cut out. The violence, while not overly graphic, may be too intense for some people. Also, at the beginning, there is a short scene of a young couple in a car starting to make out. However, this is cut short when the guy tries to grope the girl and she stops him. Other than these things, I found this to be a really good film Positive - John McClain is back in this 4th addition to the Die Hard Collection. If you’re a fan of the die hard series then you’ll get what you’re expecting. Surprisingly they succeeded in making an awesome sequel in a PG-13 rating. If you aren’t familiar with the Die Hard series, it is pretty much known for: Neutral
Neutral - …This film should be rated 'R' and here is the reason why. Other than street profanity, I counted the use of God’s name in vain over 7 times! To me, this is worse than 'bad'. It is such a shame since the movie was action-packed and visually exciting to watch. I do not understand why this type of profanity is necessary to the plot. If I had known beforehand, I would not have taken my family to see this movie and strongly urge Christians parents to discuss this issue before subjecting their children to this film. Neutral - Saw it, loved it, wouldn’t take any one under 21 to see it. The language is really rough. The movie is great, but it seems to me they used more language than normal just because they couldn’t use the f-bomb. Love McClane, love the kid, movie has a great story line but how many times does GD have to be dropped for us Christians to stop even going to PG-13 movies. I normally don’t go to a PG-13 movie anymore, and it looks like I will go back to that motto. I just wish some Christian kid would get the idea that a clean movie (not the cheesy movies that Christians make now), would be easy to make and it would clean up at the box office. Neutral - Maybe it’s because I haven’t watched the other “Die Hard” movies, but this one just seemed to have a really flat script. There weren’t enough twists in it & it was so predictable. The dialogue didn’t seem natural, and to me Timothy Olyphant seemed to be forcing a sinister attitude, the role didn’t fit him well enough from my point of view. There was a fair share of curse words and quite a bit of destructive, pointless violence. I think Bruce Willis really lost some credit on this one. I’d rather have saved my money for something else. Neutral - …I watched it on a Clearplay DVD player and was really surprised at how much bad language had to be muted and at the level of violence. I… can honestly say that had I not watched it with Clearplay I would most certainly NOT have finished it. As a Christian, I can't imagine suggesting that this is a MUST see. I would hesitate before recommending it with Clearplay. Neutral - When I heard Bruce Willis was returing for the Die Hard series, I was not surprised. Stallone returned with Rocky and Rambo. Why not John McClane? I was not a fan of the older series. Never saw them, did not care too. Before my time. Negative
Negative - …The misuse of God’s and our Savior’s name is so pervasive in this movie that I cannot recommend it to any of my Christian friends. I counted 15 instances before losing track. I imagine there are over 20 instances of this. The content of the movie itself was only marginally interesting. The action was ridiculous and unbelievable. Had I not been with other people, I would have left the theater before the end. Negative - Very exciting movie with “out of this world” stunts. The Name of Jesus was thrown around quite a few times. Too bad! It would have been a great movie if it weren’t for that. I can’t recommend this movie to anyone because Jesus has instructed us not to take His Name in vain. Not even once! I can’t encourage anyone to “overlook” that and tell them that it’s a good movie. It isn’t! Negative - Am I the only one left to be offended by the use of the Lord’s name in vain? The other reviewers seemed not to be bothered by it, which makes me wonder how 'Christian' this website is! Watched the first 10 minutes of the movie (DVD rental), shut it off, and returned it when God’s name was cursed. I can stand almost anything in the way of violence or cursing, but draw the line at the use of God’s name in that way. Why do those in Hollywood find it necessary to do this—no conscience, I guess (or avid nonbelievers.) Negative - I couldn't stand this film for using the Lord's name in vain. I lost count of how many times they used God, Jesus or Jesus Christ! I would have preferred for them to use actual cuss words like s---,h---,etc. However, by not using 'cuss' words they got by with a PG-13 rating and allowed children to view this movie and worse yet hear this kind of language. Also, there is some sort of 'hermit' in the fim with a red hot phone and the first three digits are 666. It is sad that this film has an avergae rating from this Christian website. I would NOT recommend this film for anyone to see or hear. Comments from young people
Neutral - I went to see Live Free with some friends, and I wasn’t really impressed. I enjoyed the movie, and I might rent it on DVD, but there were too many cons to the movie for a positive rating. Positive - This movie was amazing! The best movie I’ve seen in a long, long time by far! I actually cared about what happened to the characters, and I don’t feel the connection with most modern movies! The script writers, actors, and director did an amazing job with this one. The movie, unfortunately, was offensive. If you’re looking for the 'family friendly' action film, although this one is far more family friendly than others, TONS of profanity was used. I mean, I usually don’t notice swears (side effect of today’s culture), but in this movie, I noticed. Tons of 'Jesus Christs' were used, and 'Oh my God.' Other swears too. Tons of them. And even though I LOVED this movie, if you really can’t bare that, don’t see it. The movie was generally more pure than most. There is a slight 'sensual' scene, where McClane’s daughter is seen in car kissing her boyfriend, who, of course, goes for her chest. I rooted in the theater though, 'Good for you!' as the girl, Lucy, shoves him away and tells him no. Nice for hollywood. For once. I recommend this movie for action-film lovers, cause, I love it! (But according to Christian truths, The Christ would not recommend this film. - if that’s what your looking for.) Positive - Really good movie!!! Bruce Willis is an excellent actor, and the movie came together with good action without. And for you adults which are saying it should be R-rated, I don’t agree. Nowadays, a movie has to be extremely violent/gory to get an R rating, which this movie was not. Just some ordinary, clean explosions, of airplanes, cars, and shooting. Nothing out of the ordinary for a PG-13 action flick. I saw this with my best friend and we were both blown away, and definitely agreed it was the best movie we’ve seen in a LONG time. Definitely 5 stars. The action is great, and so is the story line. I wouldn’t change a thing in the movie, except they used God’s name in vain sometimes. I think we can all expect cursing in a modern PG-13 action movie, so I wasn’t at all surprised to hear it. So, although I don’t agree with saying G_d d_mn, I won’t not see a movie, because I personally believe that my spiritual self is strong enough, not to be effected by hearing someone curse with the Lord’s name. YES, it is wrong. And some of you are extremely offended by it, which I understand. So just close your ears to it, and you’ll LOVE the movie!!!… Wonderful movie. Positive - This movie was one of the best I have seen in a long while. I didn't count much use of the Lord’s name in vain, so I don't no what all the fuss is about. The plot of the movie was very original, and it kept me on my toes. I enjoyed this movie 100%. I recomend this movie to anyone over the age of 13. Fantastic Movie! Comments from non-viewers
From what I saw, the movie looked great. I only watched 10 minutes (or less) of the movie before shutting it off. As long as we will toloerate God's name being taken in vain, Hollywood will continue to put it in their script. Time to tell Hollywood “No” to such offensive practices. We can't say “Merry Christmas”… but they can plaster our Lord’s name (taken in vain) all over their movies marketed to us? I don't think so. This is a comment about some of the negative comments. Non-Christians in non-Christian movies acting in hostile situations will take the name of Jesus in vain. They will sin in many different ways as that is what sinners do… they sin. So no big shocker there. They also do noble things… like respect their mothers, save lives while putting theirs on the line, and sometimes even pray. In real life people swear, cuss, make mistakes, get drunk, etc. etc. |
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