After a four-year hiatus since “John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum,” director Chad Stahelski and the iconic Keanu Reeves return to the big screen with “John Wick: Chapter 4.” The film, originally scheduled for release almost two years ago, has finally arrived, and I can assure you that the wait was worth it. Collaborating with writers Shay Hatten and Michael Finch, Stahelski delivers a captivating action-packed movie that finds the perfect balance between mythology and streamlined intensity, reminiscent of the series’ original installment.
The fourth chapter of “John Wick” picks up with the titular character (Keanu Reeves) on the run yet again, as he faces off against the formidable High Table and its villainous leader, Marquis de Gramont (Bill Skarsgård). With the bounty on Wick’s head growing, he ventures to Japan for help from the head of the Osaka Continental, Shimazu (Hiroyuki Sanada), and finds himself crossing paths with a blind High Table assassin named Caine (played by the remarkable Donnie Yen). Meanwhile, Laurence Fishburne makes appearances as Wick’s resourceful ally, and Shamier Anderson portrays a cunning assassin patiently awaiting the right opportunity to claim his prize. Unlike the previous films, “John Wick: Chapter 4” manages to maintain a more focused narrative, despite its epic runtime of 169 minutes, presenting a straightforward premise – John Wick versus the bad guys.
The heart of the film lies in its brilliantly constructed action sequences that strike a perfect balance between urgency and artistic choreography. Stahelski’s team manages to avoid the common pitfall of over-stylizing fight scenes, ensuring that each battle remains tense and consequential. The action sequences are masterfully paced, and the film’s objectives are clear-cut, allowing for intricate choreography that advances the story seamlessly. In “John Wick: Chapter 4,” you know precisely what John must achieve and whom he needs to defeat to progress to the next level, a refreshing contrast to many modern action films that often muddle their objectives.
The film’s action choreography is nothing short of breathtaking, leaving audiences in awe of how Wick navigates through the world with his adversaries in pursuit. Notably, scenes set in crowded locations like a nightclub or a traffic circle in front of the Arc de Triomphe demonstrate Stahelski’s creative prowess. Wick’s encounters with enemies are so seamlessly integrated into the bustling background that it’s as if the world around him is oblivious to the legendary assassin and his lethal pursuits.
The cinematography by Dan Laustsen deserves special mention for its role in maintaining the film’s action clarity. Unlike many imitators of the “Bourne” series, Stahelski and Laustsen ensure the fight scenes are clean, brutal, and never confusing. The stunt work is commendable, and each shoot-out feels like a beautifully choreographed dance, further heightening the film’s sense of grace and ingenuity.
Keanu Reeves continues to impress as the enigmatic John Wick, conveying the character’s unwavering dedication while also portraying his emotional exhaustion, adding depth to his journey. Reeves’ portrayal reflects the evolution of Wick from a vengeful assassin to a seasoned survivor. The film allows other cast members, particularly Donnie Yen and Shamier Anderson, to shine in their respective roles. Yen, a legendary action star, delivers a fantastic performance, not only during the combat scenes but also in the moments between action. Anderson brings an enjoyable dynamic to his character, revealing a soft spot for dogs that aligns with the franchise’s underlying theme of valuing canine companions.
If there’s any slight drawback, it’s that the film occasionally indulges in unnecessary narrative moments, resulting in a few scenes feeling slightly extended. However, this minor flaw doesn’t detract from the overall experience.
“John Wick: Chapter 4” is a cinematic spectacle that demands to be seen on the big screen, especially with a passionate and engaged audience. It exudes the contagious energy characteristic of great action films, leaving viewers marveling at the ingenuity and intensity unfolding before their eyes. With its triumphant return, “John Wick” reaffirms its position as one of the genre’s most captivating franchises. So gear up and immerse yourself in the high-octane world of John Wick, a masterclass in action filmmaking.