Jeb Stuart's second revised draft of Die Hard, while not the same as the final product, was a step closer.
A group of supposed terrorists take over Nakatomi Plaza in Los Angeles, but they are hindered by NYPD Detective John McClane.
The script is available for purchase at specialty websites.
The tropes that fell out of Santa's sleigh:
- Badass in a Nice Suit: Hans, like his cinematic incarnation, is a well dressed gunman.
- Cop Killer: Hans has his men neutralize law enforcement with heavy weaponry, establishing them as credible threats.
- Evil Is Petty: In contrast to his cinematic incarnation, Hans is more vindictive, shooting a hostage for panicking and attempting to kill John and Holly over John's interference.
- Faux Affably Evil: Hans adopts a veneer of civility, even when holding others at gunpoint.
- Hostage Situation: Hans and his crew take over 30 people hostage, and intend to kill the hostages when they get away with the money.
- Manipulative Bastard: Hans exploits the actions of the police and others in an attempt to get away with the cash.
- Relationship-Salvaging Disaster: Like the film, Holly and John's relationship improves as a result of the hostage situation.
