John McTiernan has carved a niche for himself in the film world as "The intelligent action director." His two "Die Hard" films and "The Hunt For Red October" are rare examples of smart, almost-feasible action movies. However, McTiernan is hit or miss, and when he misses he misses big. "The Last Action Hero" and "Medicine Man" aren't the kind of films you'll see in too many home collections (unless you're fond of collecting crap).
McTiernan has never been nominated for an Oscar, and given his predilection for action movies, it's unlikely he'll ever be awarded by the Academy. Unfortunately, his resume includes dubious Razzie nominations for Worst Director and Worst Picture, both coming from "The Last Action Hero." McTiernan may have bad luck in the awards department, but he can rest with the knowledge that the original "Die Hard" will forever be a standard-bearer in the action genre. That's gotta count for something.
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Director Filmography:
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| Rollerball |
2001 |
| The Thomas Crown Affair |
1999 |
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The 13th Warrior |
1999 |
| Die Hard: With a Vengeance |
1995 |
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The Last Action Hero |
1993 |
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Medicine Man |
1992 |
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The Last Days of Eden |
1992 |
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The Hunt for Red October |
1990 |
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Die Hard |
1988 |
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Predator |
1987 |
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Nomads |
1986 |
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Full IMDb Filmography
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Review: Rollerball
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Rollerball (Grade: C) — After being toned down for a younger, faster, more furious audience, John McTiernan's "Rollerball" remake is an emasculated action flick. Reviewed by Brian Orndorf.
Posted: 02/11/02
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"Die Hard" Director Straps on Skates for "Rollerball"
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After "earning" two Razzie nominations for 1994's "The Last Action Hero" you'd think director John McTiernan would be more selective with his choices. For a while it appeared he was headed in the right direction: "The Thomas Crown Affair" was entertaining and "The 13th Warrior" was watchable (confusing, but watchable). Unfortunately, McTiernan seems poised for Razzie redux with his latest project, a remake of "Rollerball" starring Rebecca Romijn-Stamos, Chris Klein, LL Cool J, and Jean Reno. Upcomingmovies.com has an excellent plot synopsis of the original, but the abridged rundown goes like this: Set in the near future, "Rollerball" focuses on a hyperviolent, exceptionally popular sport in which some players are killed. Take "Gladiator", cross it with "The Running Man," throw in rollerskates and sharp, pointy weapons, and you've probably got the idea. If you're intrigued, check out the recently-launched official site. "Rollerball" is scheduled for a Spring 2001 release.
Posted: 10/15/00
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