When this model miniature is tossed down an elevator shaft, detonating and turning bad guys into smithereens, the tide turns for NYPD Detective “John McClane” (Bruce Willis), and it’s only a matter of time before evil mastermind “Hans Gruber” (Alan Rickman) will be doing his iconic, flailing freefall from the top of Nakatomi Plaza. As memorable a scene as any in movie history.
AUCTION PREVIEW
Producer Joel Silver’s Personal “Bomb Strapped to Office Chair” Filming Miniature from Die Hard (Warner Bros., 1988). LOT #89622.
If you’ve had the dubious fortune of reading any of my previous contributions to our monthly, you know I have a thing for miniatures. They’re small enough for any collector to display, most often screen used, and always a prime example of the finest work of Hollywood’s premiere artists and craftspeople. When you find a piece like this one, whose singular use on screen is highly visible, unforgettable, and critical to the plot, you can’t get much better. Well, unless the model comes directly from the film’s producer. And this one does!
For over half a century in the industry, Joel Silver has not only been active but wildly successful. His 125 producer credits include an eclectic array of titles, which may appear disparate, but share a common trait; they’re virtually ALL modern classics! From Xanadu to Weird Science. Lethal Weapon to Predator. From Demolition Man to The Matrix – and beyond. Of those titles alone, many became blockbuster, multi-generational franchises. Die Hard has to be one of Joel’s most beloved in a sea of hits. Certainly, a favorite “Christmas movie” for many fans.
In this auction, aside from this incredible piece, Joel Silver shares many of the hallmarks of his legacy with fans and fellow movie lovers. Mr. Silver and the Heritage Auctions team have curated a suite of 101 unique lots to evoke unforgettable moments from your favorite movies. None of these gems have ever been to market before today. A Letter of Authenticity, signed by Joel Silver, accompanies every lot!
Yippee-ki-yay, Model Lovers!
-Joe Moe
such great info! thank you! this is a great item and I will consider bidding now
Irv!
If I can’t have it, the next best thing is knowing it’ll be in your good hands! Joe Moe
Someone will be very happy to win this amazing piece! I really enjoyed reading about the history on this and learning more about the producer.
Glad you enjoyed my little blurb. Hope you did well at au action, my friend!
Joe Moe
What a charming highlight of an item I had no idea existed! I alsways assumed it was a real full size chair with a fake bomb. This blows my mind to realize it is Barbie sized.
It is always exciting to peak behind the curtain and see props like this. Thanks for sharing. Movie magic truly is just that, magic!
Simply incredible. I cant tell you how fascinating it is to see stuff like this. Hope to see more items like this highlighted in the future.