Why Doesn't Argyle Call the Police in Die Hard?

In the classic movie Die Hard (1988), the limo driver, Argyle, does not immediately call the police despite being in the parking garage and witnessing the unfolding events. Here are several reasons behind this decision, as well as the impact of his inaction on the film's narrative and character dynamics.

Rational Behind Argyle's Inaction

There are several reasons why Argyle does not call the police:

Uncertainty

Initially, Argyle is unaware of the full extent of the situation.

He sees John McClane going inside the building and doesn't realize that a hostage situation is unfolding. He is in a state of confusion about what is happening.

Isolation

Argyle is in the parking garage, which is somewhat isolated from the ongoing events, leading to a lack of information.

He might not have a clear line of sight or understanding of the chaos in the building. His focus is on the immediate environment rather than the events happening above.

Focus on McClane

Argyle's primary concern is for John McClane and he is waiting for him to return.

He believes that McClane can handle the situation as he just dropped him off at a party. Their relationship is one of employer and driver, with McClane often disregarding Argyle's concerns.

Lack of Information

Without a clear understanding of the danger or the need for immediate police intervention, Argyle may not have felt it was necessary to call the police right away.

Character and Plot Dynamics

Argyle's role in the film is multifaceted. He serves as a comedic and supportive character, providing tension and levity to the narrative. His inaction contributes to the overall plot and adds to the dramatic tension of the film.

Character Development and Contrast

Argyle's character contrasts with the more serious events unfolding in the building, adding depth to the story.

Realism in Pacing

The movie's pacing is deliberate and necessary for the overall narrative. The filmmakers chose to focus on the most significant events rather than showing every single moment of every character's experience.

Argyle's Actions and Directives

By the time Argyle finds out that the shooting has started and the building is surrounded by police, his action is more about survival and likely influenced by his own character's sensibility.

Scenarios and Outcomes

Argyle being one of the more sensible characters in the movie, looks for a way out, discovers that there isn't one, and decides to lay low. This decision is in line with the advice given by law enforcement in similar situations.

Motivations and Excuses

Argyle's inaction can also be attributed to several plausible motivations within the movie's context:

The stereo blasting in the car, which likely blocked out the sound of the gunshots. The parking garage is not a location from which one can easily call for help. Argyle was on the phone with his girlfriend, telling her that he was still coming over later and that he had never lied to her.

Conclusion

The decision not to immediately call the police for Argyle is embedded in his character development and the movie's pacing. It contributes to the overall narrative by adding tension, comedy, and realism to the story. Understanding these factors helps us appreciate the craft and storytelling of the film Die Hard.