John McClane's Complex Relationship with Police Work: An Analysis

The character of John McClane, the titular hero of the Die Hard series, has undergone an interesting evolution in his career within the law enforcement community. This analysis will explore why John McClane found himself part of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) in the movie Die Hard 2: Die Harder in 1990, and how this aligns with the enduring appeal of the Cop genre in Hollywood.

John McClane's Journeys in Law Enforcement

In the 1990 sequel Die Hard 2: Die Harder, set at Dulles International Airport in Washington D.C., John McClane is depicted as a member of the LAPD. This portrayal is not merely a random decision by the filmmakers but rather a strategic move. It is consistent with the character's origin story established in the first film, where he is introduced as an NYPD (New York Police Department) officer visiting L.A. for a personal reason. This cross-appointment between NYPD and LAPD adds depth to the narrative, highlighting McClane's versatility and adaptability in different law enforcement environments.

However, the third installment, Die Hard with a Vengeance (1995), saw McClane back in New York City, portrayed as a detective with the NYPD. This return to his roots in the NYPD aligns with his character's background and the setting of the first film, which helped establish his credibility and relatability. The change in police affiliation is primarily a reflection of the narrative needs and settings of the films, rather than a strict continuity in his career.

The Influence of Cop Genre and Hollywood Settings

The Cop Genre in Hollywood often revolves around protagonists who are either from New York City or Los Angeles. This is due to the enduring association of these cities with crime and action. In the early 1990s, if a movie did not feature these settings, it risked being perceived as less authentic or less relatable. This trend was exacerbated by the popularity of shows like Miami Vice, which further cemented the idea that only certain cities were relevant to the genre. However, Miami Vice also played a role in giving rise to the McClane universe by highlighting the unique dynamics of law enforcement in different urban environments.

The portrayal of McClane in Die Hard 2 as an LAPD officer provides an interesting contrast to his NYPD roots. It suggests that his commitment to law enforcement is deep but not confined to one specific department or city. This flexibility in his police affiliation enhances his character development and broadens the scope of his narrative.

Realistic Timeline and Personal Dynamics

Realistically, the timeline for John McClane and Holly's marriage ending would likely have been quite soon after Die Hard 2. The trauma of Holly being held hostage would be difficult to overcome, especially if it happened twice. While the movies do not explicitly state that McClane requested a secondment to the LAPD to rebuild his relationship with Holly, given his "celebrity" status, such an action would likely be seen as positive. It would make it more difficult for criminals to operate in New York while the situation was still tense.

By the time of Die Hard with a Vengeance, which takes place several years after Die Hard 2, the stress and trauma of the events in the previous films, combined with alcohol abuse, may have led McClane to make difficult decisions, including permanently moving back to New York City. His mention in Vengance that his marriage "basically ended" due to his failure to call Holly back likely refers to his drinking problem more than anything else.

John McClane's complex career as a police officer reflects not only the demands of the genre but also the challenges faced by real-life law enforcement officials who must navigate multiple jurisdictions and maintain personal and professional integrity. As a character, McClane embodies the mix of resilience, resourcefulness, and vulnerability that are hallmarks of the Cop genre in Hollywood.