Die Hard Critics

Yippee Ki Yay

The 1988 testosterone-filled action film “Die Hard” has, over the years, become a cult Christmas classic. The reason is that the movie, which starred Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman, Alexander Godunov and Bonnie Bedelia, is set on Christmas Eve. During a holiday party at a corporate high-rise, NYPD Detective John McClane visits his estranged wife, Holly. She holds a high-level position with the fictional Los Angeles-based Nakatomi Corporation. During McClane’s visit, however, a German radical named Hans Gruber and his diabolical and heavily-armed gang break into the building to steal a fortune. The terrorists take everyone hostage and, when denied the combination to the safe, they begin violently killing everyone at the party. Merry Christmas! 

But has anyone ever imagined a retelling of this shoot-em-up bloodbath as an epic poem? I doubt it. But the likable British writer/performer Richard Marsh has, unbelievably, done just that. His 90-minute one-act, one-man production is as captivating as it is hilarious. The production is sure to charm even the most die hard critics. But within the parameter of the movie’s plot, Mr. Marsh’s presentation has some poignant moments, as well. Richard also weaves the true story of how his adoration of the “greatest action movie every filmed” brought him together with the love of his life. 

Richard was on an internet site commenting about his love for the Bruce Willis film. He chanced upon Jen, a young woman also on the site, who shared his passion for “Die Hard.” Through a sudden, in-person meetup, which quickly evolved into a first date, Richard and Jen immediately hit it off. They moved in together, fell in love and eventually married. Soon they were the parents of two young children, but still devoted to the cult classic and each other. Until they weren’t. But, as Richard confesses, it was through his love of writing poetry that this retelling of the action movie was born, and how this creative venture ultimately saved his marriage.

Not only is Richard Marsh’s writing extremely clever, he’s a very talented actor with a flair for dialects (thanks to some coaching by Accent Coach, Alice White). The performer is especially funny when portraying actor Alan Rickman who, many theatergoers will recall, also played an important character in the Harry Potter films. Marsh skillfully includes many references to Rickman’s sinister portrayal of Professor Snape, as well as mixing in other Hogwarts references. With a wooden chair as his only set piece, Mr. Marsh’s performance makes use of a box of assorted props, a large tub of water and a container of stage makeup.

The production is economically Directed by Hal Chambers, aided by his Assistant Director and Movement Specialist, Emma Webb. Atmospherically-tuned Lighting is provided by Robbie Butler, while Ben Hudson’s judiciously chosen Sound Design serves to embellish Marsh’s fine performance. 

For fans of the original “Die Hard” action film, this is the perfect companion piece. With commentary about its bizarre plot, its 1980’s fashions and its melodramatic acting style, the laughs come fast and furious. Amiable Richard Marsh’s skill as a writer and talent as a performer will bring back memorable moments of the film, while offering laugh-out-loud humor about the movie. Even for those who, like myself, aren’t too familiar with the Bruce Willis film, there’s enough to enjoy in this delightful parody to please even the most Die Hard Critic.    

Recommended

Reviewed by Colin Douglas

Presented November 20-December 15 by Broadway in Chicago at The Broadway Playhouse Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St., Chicago.

Tickets are available at all Broadway in Chicago box offices, the BIC Ticket Line at 800-775-2000 or online at www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

Additional information about this and other area productions can be found by visiting www.theatreinchicago.com.