Why John McClane still matters in today's cinema
What's the story
Detective John McClane, a character from the Die Hard series, has become an icon of US cinema. From being a regular cop to a celebrated action hero, McClane has seen some major transformations. We take a look at how McClane's character evolved over the years and what contributed to his popularity in this article. From being an everyman hero to a seasoned detective, McClane's character development gives us an insight into changing cinematic trends.
First appearance
'Die Hard': The everyman hero
In Die Hard, we meet John McClane, an ordinary cop in an extraordinary situation. Unlike regular action heroes of the era, he is relatable and vulnerable. His resourcefulness and determination make him stand out, giving us the new kind of protagonist we never knew we needed. The film laid the foundation for McClane's character as someone who depends on wit and grit over superpowers.
Further development
Sequels: Expanding the character
As the franchise continued with sequels like Die Hard 2 and Die Hard with a Vengeance, McClane's character was fleshed out even more. These films took a closer look at his personal life and his demons, making him more relatable. The sequels preserved his everyman charm but added more challenges that pushed him to his limits and required him to adapt to more complex situations.
Contemporary adaptations
Modernization in later films
In later installments like Live Free or Die Hard and A Good Day to Die Hard, John McClane was modernized for contemporary audiences. These movies featured current-day themes like cyber-terrorism, while keeping the essence of his character intact. Even as technology evolved in storytelling, McClane stayed true to realism. He still resonated with audiences with familiar characteristics like humor and tenacity.
Lasting influence
Cultural impact of John McClane
John McClane's legacy goes beyond that of movie characters; it's one that changed US cinema history. He redefined action heroes, blending valor with human imperfections, making him relatable to generations. These very human qualities, which are universal truths about human nature, ensure he never goes out of fashion, despite how much society has changed over the last few decades.