Red One, Dwayne Johnson’s latest holiday action movie, is a delightful blend of festive cheer and high-octane adventure. While firmly rooted in the Christmas season with its magical setting of Santa, elves, and mythological beings, the film manages to sneak in a clever homage to the iconic Die Hard. For fans of action-packed holiday films, this tribute to Bruce Willis and his legendary John McClane is a cherry on top of an already entertaining ride.
Red One Meets Die Hard: A Surprising Connection
At first glance, Red One and Die Hard seem worlds apart.
- Red One is a fantastical adventure where Santa and his allies save Christmas from an evil witch.
- Die Hard is a gritty action thriller about an NYPD officer thwarting a terrorist heist at a Christmas party.
Despite their stark differences, both films share a connection through their holiday settings. However, Red One takes it a step further with a brilliant Easter egg that pays homage to one of Die Hard’s most iconic moments.
The Tribute: J.K. Simmons Channels John McClane
Near the end of Red One, there’s a montage of J.K. Simmons’ Santa Claus delivering gifts to children. In one memorable moment, Santa is seen crawling through air vents with a big grin on his face. This visual instantly evokes Bruce Willis’ famous vent scene in Die Hard, where John McClane navigates the air ducts of Nakatomi Plaza with only a lighter to guide him.
McClane’s vent scene has become a cultural touchstone, complete with the unforgettable line:
“Come out to the coast, we’ll get together, have a few laughs.”
By recreating this moment, Red One not only honors the legacy of Die Hard but also adds a humorous twist, imagining Santa Claus in the shoes of one of cinema’s greatest action heroes.
Why Red One Includes This Homage
The homage to Die Hard in Red One may be more than just a fun Easter egg. Dwayne Johnson, the film’s star, has often spoken about his admiration for Bruce Willis. The two action icons worked together in G.I. Joe: Retaliation (2013), and Johnson has described Willis as the “ultimate man’s man.” This friendship and mutual respect could explain why Red One includes such a heartfelt nod to Die Hard.
J.K. Simmons, who plays Santa in Red One, also has ties to Willis. The two starred together in the 1997 thriller The Jackal. This makes the tribute feel even more fitting, as it brings together past collaborators in a new and unexpected way.
The Legacy of Die Hard’s Vent Scene
The vent scene in Die Hard is more than just an iconic moment in the movie—it’s a cultural phenomenon. From Christmas ornaments to countless parodies, it has become one of the most recognizable scenes in action movie history. By incorporating it into Red One, the filmmakers celebrate a piece of cinematic history while bridging the gap between two very different genres: Christmas fantasy and action thriller.
Red One: A Festive Action Adventure
Beyond its tribute to Die Hard, Red One stands out as a holiday movie that combines action, humor, and heart. Dwayne Johnson delivers his signature charisma, while J.K. Simmons adds a touch of warmth and wit to the role of Santa Claus. The film leans heavily into the holiday spirit with magical creatures, high-stakes adventures, and a message about the importance of believing in something greater.
Bruce Willis’ Lasting Influence
Even though Bruce Willis isn’t directly involved in Red One, his influence on the action genre is undeniable. Through its homage to Die Hard, the movie acknowledges his legacy and ensures that his contributions to cinema continue to inspire new generations of filmmakers and audiences.
Final Thoughts: A Fun Holiday Watch
Red One is more than just a Christmas movie—it’s a celebration of holiday magic, action-packed storytelling, and the enduring legacy of cinematic icons like Bruce Willis. The vent scene homage is a delightful touch that will leave Die Hard fans smiling, while the movie’s blend of adventure and humor ensures it’s a perfect addition to your holiday watchlist.
If you’re looking for a film that captures the festive spirit with a side of action, Red One is a must-watch. And for those who love spotting Easter eggs, the nod to Die Hard is just the icing on the cake.
Where to Watch
Red One is streaming exclusively on Netflix.
Image courtesy of Amazon MGM Studios, Seven Bucks Productions, Chris Morgan Productions, and The Detective Agency.
Mohit Singhania is a passionate film enthusiast and the creator of CinematicJunction.com, a platform dedicated to exploring the world of movies and web series.
With a commitment to delivering original, high-quality content, Mohit combines his love for storytelling with sharp insights into the entertainment industry. When he’s not writing, you can find him binge-watching the latest series or diving deep into the art of filmmaking.
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