July 15: Die Hard (1988)

Milestone Years

• 40th Anniversary: July 15, 2028
• 50th Anniversary: July 15, 2038
• 75th Anniversary: July 15, 2063

Inspiration Behind the Movie

Die Hard was based on Roderick Thorp’s novel “Nothing Lasts Forever,” inspired by a dream Thorp had after watching The Towering Inferno. The film tapped into 1980s fears of terrorism and urban vulnerability, transforming an aging-cop story into a sharp, contemporary action thriller.

You Might Not Know

• Bruce Willis was mainly known for TV comedy before this breakout action role.
• Alan Rickman made his big-screen debut as Hans Gruber.
• The iconic Nakatomi Plaza is actually Fox Plaza in Los Angeles.
• Willis wore earplugs to protect from explosions, leading to real delayed reactions.
• “Yippee-ki-yay” became an unplanned, legendary catchphrase.

Food Ideas

• German bratwurst and pretzels (for the Euro villains)
• Nakatomi tower sushi rolls
• Shattered “glass” candy (sugar shards)
• McClane messy burgers (barefoot style)
• Yippee-Ki-Yay whiskey sours

Ways to Celebrate

• Host a Die Hard movie marathon.
• Make a gingerbread Nakatomi Plaza.
• Wear a white tank and fake bloody feet like McClane.
• Challenge friends to an ‘80s action quiz night.
• Recreate the soundtrack with a party playlist.

Filming Locations

Filmed at Fox Plaza in Century City, Los Angeles, which doubled as Nakatomi Plaza. The building is still standing and has become a cult pilgrimage site for fans.