Fox Plaza: From Die Hard To Gaming - A Look Inside The Iconic Building!

26 May, 2025

Do you know that a single building has played a more significant role in shaping the cinematic landscape than many realize? Fox Plaza, a gleaming skyscraper in the heart of Century City, Los Angeles, is not just a building; it's a star in its own right, having graced the silver screen in iconic films and serving as a corporate headquarters for a global entertainment giant.

The story of Fox Plaza is intertwined with Hollywood's narrative of success. This architectural marvel, located at 2121 Avenue of the Stars in Century City, has become a symbol of Los Angeles's dynamic cityscape. Its story begins with its completion in 1987, a time when the city was undergoing a period of rapid development and expansion. The building was designed by the renowned architect, William Pereira, who, unfortunately, passed away in 1985 before the buildings completion. The project was later finalized by the Irvine Company, the current owner.

The building's fame is inextricably linked to its most celebrated role: Nakatomi Plaza in the 1988 action classic, Die Hard. The film, starring Bruce Willis as John McClane, catapulted Fox Plaza to international recognition. The building served as the primary setting for McClane's battle against terrorists, making it an instantly recognizable landmark. The film was entirely shot on location in and around Fox Plaza. In the movie, the building, owned by a fictional Japanese keiretsu corporation, became the stage for an intense showdown, adding layers of suspense to the narrative. It is a testament to the buildings architectural appeal that, even when under construction, it presented an image of sophistication that was ideal for the film's setting.

The buildings involvement in Die Hard showcased its capabilities beyond aesthetics. The films crew ingeniously used scale models to create certain scenes of destruction. Stage 15 at Fox Studios was used for scenes such as the party scene on the 30th floor, highlighting how the structure facilitated both interior and exterior filming. As the building was nearing completion at the time of filming, the production team adapted and used the space creatively, further solidifying its importance in Hollywoods history.

Beyond Die Hard, Fox Plaza has made appearances in various other films and video games, underscoring its versatility and architectural appeal. It has also been featured in the video game Midnight Club: Los Angeles, Die Hard: Vendetta for the Nintendo GameCube, as well as being utilized for the corporate offices of Chimera Gas in the dark comedy Motorama and as the headquarters for Chicago's fictional Mr. Zalinsky's Auto Parts in the 1995 film Tommy Boy. These appearances demonstrate how the structure can adapt to different scenarios and genres, further enhancing its celebrity status.

The buildings appeal extends beyond its cinematic fame. Its central location in Century City, a prominent neighborhood in Los Angeles, places it among a series of towering skyscrapers. The area has been a backdrop for a multitude of Hollywood movies since the 1970s, making it a hub for entertainment and culture. The neighborhood is also a major shopping destination, housing the sprawling Westfield Century City Mall, offering a wide range of luxury brands and a variety of experiences.

Fox Plaza houses the headquarters of 20th Century Fox. The building has also been featured in at least four major motion pictures released by Fox, marking its deep integration into the entertainment industry. The structure's ability to serve multiple purposes, from corporate functions to film sets, is a tribute to its versatility and its enduring presence within popular culture. The building's design and layout, combined with its strategic location, make it an ideal venue for both business and entertainment.

The building's story is not only about architecture and film; it is also about the evolution of Los Angeles. The fact that Fox Plaza has become so recognizable underscores the power of film to shape perceptions of place and to create lasting connections between real-world locations and the narratives of popular culture. The structure's transformation from a business headquarters to a cinematic icon is a vivid illustration of Los Angeless capacity to embrace change while maintaining its unique identity.

The impact of Die Hard is evident in how Fox Plaza continues to be celebrated today. Decades after its release, the film's legacy remains strong. 20th Century Fox held an outdoor screening to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Die Hard, showing its dedication to this iconic structure. The ongoing reverence for the building and the movie reaffirms its role in cinematic history.

Beyond its cinematic and corporate roles, Fox Plazas design, including its architecture, is worth examining more closely. The tower's architectural design reflects the trends of its time, with sleek lines and a focus on verticality. Its completion in 1987 mirrors a broader narrative of development and innovation that has defined Los Angeles throughout the decades. Its sleek and modern architecture has contributed to its prominence on the Los Angeles skyline.

Fox Plazas status as a filming location can be viewed through the lens of what it adds to the movie, which is the element of realism. Using an authentic location for the movie allows viewers to feel more deeply immersed in the story. This connection between the real world and the film creates a strong resonance with audiences, making the events feel more grounded and believable. The strategic selection of locations like Fox Plaza, which had not only a striking appearance but also a significant link to the city's cultural history, improved the movie's impact.

In conclusion, Fox Plaza's story is an example of how architecture and film can come together to create iconic symbols. From its architectural design to its role in Die Hard, the building stands as a testament to creativity and cultural impact. It represents a vibrant blend of business, art, and location, providing a landmark that continues to inspire and fascinate audiences worldwide. As the story of Fox Plaza continues, its legacy is assured to play a lasting role in the ever-evolving narrative of cinema and culture.

Attribute	Details
Name	Fox Plaza
Also Known As (in Film)	Nakatomi Plaza (in Die Hard)
Address	2121 Avenue of the Stars, Century City, Los Angeles, CA
Completion Date	1987
Architect	William Pereira (completed by The Irvine Company)
Current Owner	The Irvine Company
Primary Use	Corporate Headquarters (20th Century Fox)
Notable Film Appearances	Die Hard (1988), Motorama, Tommy Boy
Other Appearances	Video Games: Midnight Club: Los Angeles, Die Hard: Vendetta
Key Features	Iconic architectural design, prominent location in Century City
Significance	One of Los Angeles's most recognizable buildings, significant role in film history, symbol of the city's culture
Reference	Wikipedia

Bruce Willis makes a rare appearance as he returns to Die Hard's

Details

Fox Plaza aka Nakatomi Tower from Die Hard Century City LosAngeles

Details

Fox Plaza building which appeared in the 1988 action film Die Hard as

Details

Detail Author:

Name : Sonny Zieme
Username : wiza.kathleen
Email : altenwerth.treva@yahoo.com
Birthdate : 1986-04-26
Address : 7871 Schneider Island Apt. 953 Wittingstad, AK 89366
Phone : +1-928-864-4575
Company : Howe-Emmerich
Job : Elevator Installer and Repairer
Bio : Iste eos rem tempore aut a. Saepe eos odit quaerat in voluptate vel ratione. Aut aut veniam corporis nisi accusamus officiis voluptas. Consequatur itaque dolores nisi hic aliquid non sed.