Why I’m Conflicted About Die Hard As A Christmas Movie

by

Though released in the 1980s, Die Hard remains a fantastic and highly impactful action film. While many debate whether it’s a Christmas movie, there’s no denying its quality. Despite being set almost entirely within one building, the movie maximizes its concept, offering both thrilling action and suspenseful moments that still resonate today.

The film was so successful that it spawned a five-movie franchise, though the quality varies between them. It also popularized a new type of action movie – often called ‘Die Hard’-style – featuring a relatable hero single-handedly stopping criminals in a confined location. Films like Cliffhanger, Under Siege, and Air Force One followed this formula.

One thing that sets Die Hard apart is its Christmas backdrop, leading many to wonder if it truly counts as a Christmas movie. Although I enjoy it as an action film, it doesn’t quite feel like the kind of Christmas movie I usually prefer to watch during the holidays.

Die Hard Is A Fantastic Action Movie, But A Subpar Christmas Movie

So, the big question: is Die Hard a Christmas movie? Absolutely. But that’s where I get stuck. While I think it’s a great action film, it doesn’t quite feel like it belongs with other traditional Christmas favorites.

Most people consider Die Hard a Christmas movie simply because the story unfolds on Christmas Eve. Though the film includes Christmas themes, it’s not actually about the holiday. The main plot revolves around John McClane stopping a group of criminals and rescuing hostages, not celebrating Christmas with his family.

This was intentional. Director Shane Black even said in an interview with the American Film Institute that they didn’t set out to make a Christmas movie. Because of this, it doesn’t have the same heartwarming, holiday feel as classic Christmas films like It’s a Wonderful Life or The Santa Clause.

While Die Hard is a great movie and arguably better than some traditional holiday films, it’s not what I reach for when I want to feel festive. My go-to Christmas movie is Elf. It might not be the best Christmas movie ever made, but it’s a childhood favorite I watch every year.

While Die Hard is generally considered a better film than Elf, I’d pick Elf—or Home Alone, Christmas Vacation, or The Muppet Christmas Carol—any day if I was choosing a movie to watch during the holidays.

While it’s a fun action movie, I wouldn’t immediately think of it when I think of Christmas movies. Violent Night (2022) isn’t quite as good as Die Hard, but it actually gets me into the holiday mood more. Die Hard is a fantastic action film, but it doesn’t really capture the Christmas feeling that would make me want to watch it every year.

Read More

2025-12-06 22:59