To anyone reading this who doesn't understand WHY is one of the best action thrillers of all time, the answer is simple. All the actors are believable people. They aren't narcissists or psychopaths. Bruce Willis is somewhat of a loser and is just as surprised that he gets anywhere as anyone else. Same for Rickman, who is a first-rate criminal and is just as surprised as everyone else that his plan is falling apart.

Finally, the reason it's a x-mas movie is at the core of it is Willis's failed marriage to his wife. That is, X-mass loneliness is what he is really struggling with. First he's alone, then "this sht". We've all been there.

Great review! Sorry if you've already made these points elsewhere.