Live Free or Die Hard is a 2007 American action thriller film directed by Len Wiseman, marking the fourth installment in the Die Hard series. Released on June 27, 2007, it features Bruce Willis reprising his iconic role as NYPD Detective John McClane. The film's title is derived from New Hampshire's state motto, "Live Free or Die," and it was released internationally as Die Hard 4.0. The film also stars Timothy Olyphant as the cyber-terrorist Thomas Gabriel, along with Justin Long, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, and Maggie Q in supporting roles.
The plot centers around McClane as he attempts to thwart a cyber-attack orchestrated by Gabriel, who hacks into government and commercial computer systems across the United States. Gabriel's plan, referred to as a "fire sale," aims to disable critical infrastructure elements, leading to chaos and destruction. The story begins when McClane is assigned to transport a hacker named Matt Farrell (played by Long) after the FBI requests assistance in apprehending high-level computer criminals. As they navigate a series of attacks from Gabriel's mercenaries, McClane and Farrell must work together to stop the impending disaster.
Upon its release, Live Free or Die Hard received generally positive reviews from critics and audiences alike, praised for its action sequences and engaging storyline. It grossed approximately $388 million worldwide, making it the highest-grossing film in the Die Hard franchise. Notably, this installment is unique in that it was rated PG-13 by the MPAA, a departure from the R ratings of its predecessors. An unrated edition was later released on home media.
The film is recognized for its blend of traditional action elements with modern technological themes, reflecting the growing concerns about cybersecurity in the digital age. Critics noted that despite its lower realism due to its high-octane action sequences, it successfully revitalized the franchise and introduced McClane to a new generation of viewers. Overall, Live Free or Die Hard stands out as a significant entry in the action genre and a worthy continuation of John McClane's legacy.