In what appears to be 2025's first major action thriller, Daisy Ridley trades her lightsaber for a window cleaner's equipment in a gravity-defying poster that immediately evokes memories of Bruce Willis's iconic John McClane. The poster shows Ridley's character Joey Locke hanging upside down, seemingly embracing the dizzying heights of London's One Canada Square.
Director Martin Campbell, known for reinventing James Bond twice with “GoldenEye” and “Casino Royale,” appears to be attempting another genre refresh. The film follows Joey Locke, a dishonorably discharged soldier-turned-window cleaner who becomes entangled in a hostage situation when activists take over an energy company's annual gala. The stakes become personal when she discovers her older brother is among the 300 hostages.
The cast includes Clive Owen as the antagonist, leading what Campbell describes as a “nail-biting thriller, unique and original in both its characters and its setting”. Though some might argue about the “unique and original” part, given its obvious Die Hard DNA.
Critical Analysis: While the premise might seem derivative, Campbell's track record with action sequences and Ridley's proven dramatic chops could elevate this beyond mere homage. The decision to set crucial sequences on the exterior of One Canada Square promises what Campbell calls “a stomach-churning, vertiginous experience”.
However, early reactions have been mixed. Some praise the film's ambitious stunts, while others question whether the world needs another Die Hard-inspired thriller. The real test will be whether Campbell can transform these familiar elements into something fresh when the film releases on February 21, 2025.
Personal Impression: As someone who appreciates both classic action films and modern genre reinventions, I'm cautiously optimistic. While the Die Hard comparisons are inevitable, the vertical playground of London's skyline and Ridley's intense screen presence could provide enough unique elements to justify this variation on a familiar theme.
Do you think action thrillers need to completely reinvent the wheel to be effective, or is there still room for well-executed homages to classics like Die Hard?
