Cultural Tensions and Masculinity in 'Die Hard'

This chapter analyzes the cultural and economic anxieties of the late 1980s as reflected in 'Die Hard,' particularly contrasting American identity with Japanese economic strength. The discussion encompasses themes of masculinity, violence, and gender roles, highlighting how the film portrays vulnerabilities in its characters while subverting traditional action tropes. It also reflects on the socio-political context of the Reagan era, examining the nuanced representation of women and the implications of corporate power within the narrative.