news.volyx.in

Nakatomi Space (bldgblog.com)

401 points by sebg · 1038 days ago · 146 comments on HN

Article summary

The article discusses the concept of 'Nakatomi space', a term coined to describe the way characters in the movie Die Hard navigate and utilize the architectural space of the Nakatomi Plaza building. This concept is compared to the tactics used by the Israeli Defense Forces in urban warfare, as described in Eyal Weizman's essay 'Lethal Theory'. The article also explores how this concept relates to other movies, such as the Bourne and Bond franchises. The author suggests that Die Hard's depiction of architectural space is a key aspect of its appeal and influence.

Main themes

  • Nakatomi space
  • architectural navigation
  • urban warfare
  • film analysis
  • action movies
  • Bond franchise
  • Bourne franchise
  • geopolitics
  • urban planning

What commenters say

  • The Bond franchise has become stale and formulaic, relying on establishing shots of exotic destinations rather than meaningful exploration of space and architecture.
  • The use of public infrastructure as a superpower in the Bourne movies is a key aspect of their appeal and sets them apart from other action films.
  • The concept of 'Nakatomi space' is not new and has been used in various forms throughout history, including in urban warfare and film.
  • The Die Hard sequels failed to capture the essence of the original by abandoning its spatial investigation and focusing on the character of John McClane instead.
  • The article's comparison of Die Hard to other movies, such as Brazil, highlights the importance of architecture and space in film.
  • The decline of the Bond franchise is due to its inability to adapt to changing geopolitical realities and its reliance on outdated tropes.
  • The use of militarized parkour and 'walking through walls' tactics in urban warfare is a terrifying and dislocating experience for civilians.
  • The concept of 'Nakatomi space' can be applied to real-world urban planning and architecture, highlighting the importance of considering the ways in which buildings and spaces can be used and navigated.