Review: “John Wick: Chapter 4”
Gun shots are fired at the Osaka Continental Hotel. Fighting breaks out as members of the High Table violently confront Continental staff. Glass displays of Japanese art shatter while John Wick gracefully dodges bullets, trying to get a hit on his opponent. Wick, played by Keanu Reeves, continues his search for freedom and his quest to take down the High Table in “John Wick: Chapter 4.”
Retired hitman John Wick finds himself back in the world of assassins after seeking revenge on the men who killed his dog, which was a parting gift from his deceased wife. His journey leads him to encounter old allies, repay old debts, and face new and previous foes alike. After being deemed “excommunicado” and having a large bounty on his head, Wick must navigate in a dangerous world of assassins, while also fighting for his freedom.
The “John Wick” franchise is created by American screenwriter Derek Kolstad and director Chad Stahelski. Stahelski previously worked as a stuntman on “The Matrix” franchise, which also starred Reeves. With his work as both a stuntman and stunt coordinator, Stahelski’s expertise is evident in the outstanding action scenes in the films.
Since its first installment in 2014, John Wick has become a beloved action franchise. The excellent casting and stunning visuals make it enticing to fans. However, it is the incredible action scenes that are most appealing. Incorporating martial arts, primarily jiu-jitsu, along with unique and varied weapons, the action scenes in the films are realistic and easy to follow. Additionally, John Wick himself is both an alluring and complex character that is effortlessly cool, due in no small part to Reeves.
In “John Wick: Chapter 4,” Wick finds himself in many locations across the globe spanning from Morocco, Japan, Germany, and France. Throughout his journeys, Wick finds himself preparing to seek revenge on the High Table, the council that governs all organized crime. Meanwhile, the High Table is plotting Wick’s assassination by employing Caine (Donnie Yen), a blind assassin and former friend of Wick. While seeking out help from former allies and having to constantly face foes, there is never a moment’s rest for Wick. In an epic final duel, the fate of both Wick and The Continental are at hand in this decisive ending.
The fourth installment of the John Wick series has incredible fight scenes, stylistic directing, interesting locations, and a compelling storyline that fans of the previous three will love. However, “John Wick: Chapter 4” outdoes itself in all regards. The fight scenes and choreography are continuously innovative, the new locations and characters expand on this world of hitmen, and the artistic lighting and camera angles provide grand views for the audience. “John Wick: Chapter 4” is exhilarating from start to finish and provides little down time to the viewer.
One of the highlights of this latest film was a fight scene that took place in an abandoned house. What made this scene so unique was that it was filmed top-down as one continuous shot. The viewer sees Wick encounter foes as he moves from room to room. In this scene, Wick uses a type of ammunition that releases flames when fired, making the scene even more unique. In a series with constant fighting and action, the action sequences are continuously innovative and never feel repetitive.
Each “John Wick” film dramatically improves on, and exceeds, its predecessor. When it seems, it cannot get any better, the films manage to outdo and surpass their own extremely high standards. “John Wick: Chapter 4” is no different and is arguably the best of the series.
While it is currently unconfirmed whether there will be a “John Wick: Chapter 5,” there are plans to expand the “John Wick” universe. A spinoff film titled “Ballerina” is set to release in summer of 2024 and a TV mini-series titled “The Continental” will serve as a prequel to the “John Wick” films. This show is currently in the works and will be streaming on Peacock.
“John Wick: Chapter 4” is simply an incredible film. The film breaks boundaries and sets a new standard of what a modern action movie can look like. It is an unforgettable experience and a phenomenal addition to the beloved action series.
