Character Introductions 002: Hans Gruber
Why is Hans Gruber’s character introduction so iconic?
The visual introduction of Hans Gruber in Die Hard (1988) is so dynamic. We start with the truck moving L-to-R and towards camera. Creates momentum.
We cut to a steadicam doing a counter-move: pushing in as the truck still moves towards camera, and the roller doors going up creating action in multiple axises.
The door ways "whoosh" past as we move in, searching for someone. Anticipation.
The terrorists unload in centre frame, then move to either side of the lens, revealing Gruber just as he comes into focus and in centre of frame.
Now that we've found Gruber, the camera changes direction - is lead *by* him - becoming a tilt-up CU - classic framing to create a sense of power.
Together, this tell us that Gruber is our focus and the leader here.
Just great visual storytelling!