REVIEW: Die Hard is a Christmas Movie
What a silly and smart new holiday tradition!
I’m a big fan of Die Hard—and yes, I’ve always considered it a Christmas movie. (For the record, so is Gremlins.) The annual “Is Die Hard a Christmas movie?” debate pops up as reliably as holiday lights, and it always sparks passionate arguments. For me, it’s not just the Christmas setting but the story’s core: love, redemption, and triumph against all odds—all framed by twinkling lights, carols, and a very unlucky Nakatomi Plaza. Whether you consider it a Christmas movie or not, there’s no denying its iconic place in pop culture.
That’s why I was so excited to hear that Know Theatre commissioned Die Hard is a Christmas Movie, a holiday play by local talents A.J. Baldwin and Alexx Rouse. Under the guidance of new artistic director Bridget Leak—whose knack for smart programming is already showing—this production promised to inject some action-packed hilarity into the season. Now that the play is on stage, thanks to the expert direction of Tatiana Godfrey, it’s clear that Leak’s instincts were spot on.
The cast, led by Phineas Clark as Mack, Andrew Ian Adams as Hans (and also Cashmere and Mack Jr.), and Beasley (as Bonnie and Al) brings their comedic A-game, delivering a joyous, madcap performance. Every member of the ensemble is fantastic, but for me, Alexx Rouse, doubling as both co-writer and performer (playing Lane and various “Goons”), is the absolute standout. Her comedic timing and physical humor are razor-sharp, leaving the audience in stitches. Rouse is a force on stage and off, and Cincinnati needs more of her.
What’s remarkable is how this production works on multiple levels. Fans of Die Hard will adore the inside jokes and countless Easter eggs. From clever nods to Hans Gruber’s unflappable villainy to callbacks to duct tape and those infamous bare feet, every reference is lovingly crafted for maximum impact. But even if you’ve never seen the movie (first, go fix that), the play is still a blast. The exaggerated physical comedy and whip-smart writing ensure there’s plenty to enjoy for newcomers too.
Behind the scenes, the production team deserves kudos. Scenic designer Sarah Beth Hall and props designer Danielle Robison have created an environment with festive and creative flair, turning the set into a character of its own. Noelle Wedig-Johnston’s costumes are delightfully bold, especially in how they evoke key elements of the original movie while adding playful, unexpected twists. Chris Lipstreu’s lighting design and Douglas J. Borntrager’s sound and projections work together seamlessly to amplify the action-packed chaos, while Tatiana Godfrey’s direction pulls it all together, keeping the tone sharp and the pace electric.
What makes Die Hard is a Christmas Movie stand out, though, is its heart. Beneath the jokes and the chaos, the play captures the soul of Die Hard: it’s a story about connection. John McClane (or in this case, his stand-ins) isn’t just battling bad guys—he’s fighting for his family, for love, for the spirit of the holidays. That emotional undercurrent is present here, too, grounding the comedy in something sincere and even moving.
The perennial “Christmas movie” debate has become part of Die Hard’s legend, but productions like this remind us why the question matters less than the experience itself. Whether or not you consider the film a holiday classic, Die Hard is a Christmas Movie is a gift worth unwrapping this season. Thanks to a wildly talented cast and crew, Know Theatre has delivered the kind of joy and laughter that every holiday season needs.
DIE HARD IS A CHRISTMAS MOVIE runs through December 22nd at Know Theatre of Cincinnati. Click here for tickets and more information.