My Ranking Of John Wick Movies Including Ballerina A Comprehensive Review
As a massive fan of the John Wick franchise, I've eagerly consumed every chapter of this action-packed saga. From the groundbreaking original to the latest installments, including the spin-off Ballerina, the world of assassins, high-stakes action, and intricate lore has consistently captivated me. With each film adding new layers to the universe and introducing memorable characters, I felt compelled to create my personal ranking of the John Wick films. This isn't just about action sequences; it's about the story, the characters, the world-building, and the overall impact each movie has had on the franchise. So, let's dive into my ranking, where I'll break down what makes each John Wick film stand out and where it falls in my personal estimation.
Ranking the John Wick Movies
Ranking the John Wick movies is no easy task. Each film brings something unique to the table, whether it's breathtaking action choreography, expanding the rich mythology of the High Table, or introducing compelling new characters. My ranking considers various factors, including the quality of the action sequences, the narrative depth, character development, and how well each film fits into the overarching John Wick universe. There are no bad John Wick movies, in my opinion, but some definitely shine brighter than others. It’s a testament to the franchise’s consistency that even the film at the bottom of my list is still a highly enjoyable action flick. Join me as I delve into the specifics of each film and explain my reasoning for their placement.
1. John Wick: Chapter 4
John Wick: Chapter 4 stands as a monumental achievement in the action genre and easily claims the top spot in my ranking. This film isn't just a continuation of the saga; it's a culmination of everything that makes the John Wick franchise exceptional. The action sequences are nothing short of breathtaking, pushing the boundaries of what's possible on screen. The innovative fight choreography, combined with the stunning visuals and masterful cinematography, creates an unparalleled cinematic experience. From the intense close-quarters combat to the sprawling, operatic set pieces, Chapter 4 delivers a non-stop thrill ride that leaves you on the edge of your seat.
Beyond the action, Chapter 4 delves deeper into the lore and mythology of the John Wick universe. We get a more intimate look at the High Table, its intricate power dynamics, and the consequences of defying its ironclad rules. The introduction of new characters, such as the Marquis Vincent de Gramont (played with chilling elegance by Bill Skarsgård), adds layers of complexity to the narrative and provides compelling antagonists for John Wick to face. The emotional weight of the story, as John grapples with his past and fights for his freedom, resonates deeply and adds a poignant layer to the action.
Furthermore, Chapter 4 elevates the visual storytelling to new heights. The film's stunning locations, from the neon-lit streets of Osaka to the historic landmarks of Paris, serve as a vibrant backdrop for the action. The meticulous attention to detail in the set design and cinematography creates a visually arresting experience that enhances the overall impact of the film. The way the action sequences are framed and executed is truly masterful, making each fight feel like a meticulously crafted piece of art.
In conclusion, John Wick: Chapter 4 is a masterpiece of action cinema. It’s a film that not only delivers on the promise of thrilling action but also enriches the world of John Wick with compelling characters, intricate lore, and stunning visuals. The emotional depth and narrative complexity of the film elevate it beyond a simple action movie, making it a truly unforgettable cinematic experience. For me, Chapter 4 is the pinnacle of the John Wick franchise and a testament to the creative vision of the filmmakers.
2. John Wick
The original John Wick holds a special place in my heart as the film that started it all. This film, released in 2014, was a breath of fresh air in the action genre, offering a unique blend of stylish visuals, innovative action choreography, and a compelling revenge story. John Wick isn't just an action movie; it's a modern-day neo-noir thriller that captivated audiences with its simplicity and elegance.
What sets John Wick apart is its focus on grounded, visceral action. The gun-fu style, which blends martial arts with gunplay, was a revelation, and the film's fight sequences are both brutal and balletic. The action is always driven by the story, and each fight serves to advance John Wick's quest for vengeance. The film's commitment to practical effects and minimal CGI adds to the realism and impact of the action, making every punch, kick, and gunshot feel weighty and impactful.
Beyond the action, John Wick introduces us to a fascinating underworld of assassins and secret societies. The Continental Hotel, with its strict rules and unique clientele, is a stroke of genius and instantly became an iconic location in film history. The world-building in John Wick is subtle yet effective, hinting at a much larger and more complex world beneath the surface. This world-building is crucial to the franchise's success, as it provides a rich tapestry for future films to explore.
The character of John Wick, portrayed with stoic intensity by Keanu Reeves, is a modern-day action icon. He's a man of few words, but his actions speak volumes. His motivation – revenge for the theft of his car and the killing of his puppy – is simple yet emotionally resonant. We understand his pain and his determination, and we root for him every step of the way. The supporting cast, including Ian McShane as Winston and Lance Reddick as Charon, adds depth and color to the world of John Wick and sets the stage for their continued presence in the sequels.
In my opinion, the original John Wick is a near-perfect action film. It's lean, focused, and delivers on its promise of thrilling action and compelling storytelling. The film's impact on the action genre is undeniable, and its legacy continues to grow with each new installment in the franchise. While the sequels may have expanded on the world and the action, the original John Wick remains a benchmark for action cinema and a testament to the power of simple, well-executed storytelling.
3. John Wick: Chapter 2
John Wick: Chapter 2 takes the world-building and action that made the original John Wick so compelling and expands on it in exciting new ways. This sequel dives deeper into the mythology of the High Table, introducing new characters, locations, and rules that enrich the John Wick universe. Chapter 2 isn't just a retread of the first film; it's a significant step forward in the franchise's evolution.
The action in Chapter 2 is even more ambitious and inventive than in the original. The gun-fu style is refined and expanded, with John Wick engaging in breathtaking fight sequences in a variety of environments, from the catacombs of Rome to a hall of mirrors. The introduction of new weapons and gadgets adds to the visual spectacle, and the action choreography is some of the best in the series. The fight scenes are not only thrilling but also visually stunning, showcasing the creativity and artistry of the stunt team and the filmmakers.
Chapter 2 also delves deeper into the intricacies of the assassin underworld. We learn more about the High Table, its rules, and its influence. The introduction of the Continental Hotel in Rome, as well as new characters like Ares (played by Ruby Rose) and Santino D'Antonio (played by Riccardo Scamarcio), adds layers of complexity to the narrative. The film explores the moral ambiguities of this world, where loyalty and betrayal are often intertwined.
Keanu Reeves once again delivers a stellar performance as John Wick, portraying the character's inner turmoil and his unwavering determination. The supporting cast shines as well, with Ian McShane and Lance Reddick reprising their roles and new additions like Common as Cassian adding depth to the ensemble. The interactions between the characters are compelling, and the relationships are complex and nuanced.
The ending of Chapter 2, with John Wick being excommunicated and a massive bounty placed on his head, sets the stage perfectly for the subsequent films. It raises the stakes and creates a sense of urgency that propels the narrative forward. The film leaves the audience eager to see what will happen next and how John Wick will navigate this new challenge.
In my view, John Wick: Chapter 2 is a worthy sequel that builds on the strengths of the original while expanding the world and the mythology. It's a thrilling action film with a compelling story, memorable characters, and breathtaking action sequences. While it may not have the same groundbreaking impact as the original, Chapter 2 is a crucial chapter in the John Wick saga and a testament to the franchise's consistent quality.
4. John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum
John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum is a visceral, action-packed thrill ride that continues the saga of John Wick's fight for survival. This film picks up immediately after the events of Chapter 2, with John Wick excommunicated and a $14 million bounty on his head. Parabellum is a relentless chase movie, with John Wick battling assassins from all corners of the globe in a desperate attempt to stay alive.
The action in Parabellum is even more over-the-top and inventive than in the previous films. The fight sequences are brutal and balletic, showcasing the gun-fu style that has become a hallmark of the franchise. The film introduces new weapons and fighting techniques, and the action set pieces are some of the most memorable in the series. From the knife fight in the antique store to the motorcycle chase on the bridge, Parabellum delivers a non-stop barrage of thrilling action.
Chapter 3 also expands on the lore of the John Wick universe, delving deeper into the High Table and its power structure. We learn more about the Adjudicator (played by Asia Kate Dillon), a representative of the High Table who enforces its rules, and the consequences of defying the Table's authority. The film also introduces new characters, such as Sofia (played by Halle Berry), an old friend of John Wick's who runs the Continental Hotel in Casablanca.
Keanu Reeves continues to deliver a compelling performance as John Wick, portraying the character's resilience and his determination to survive. The supporting cast is excellent, with Ian McShane, Lance Reddick, and new additions like Halle Berry adding depth and complexity to the story. The relationships between the characters are nuanced, and the interactions are often tense and unpredictable.
While Parabellum excels in its action and world-building, it falls slightly short of the previous films in terms of narrative coherence. The plot can feel somewhat disjointed at times, and the film's ending leaves some questions unanswered. However, the sheer spectacle of the action and the richness of the John Wick universe make Parabellum a highly enjoyable entry in the franchise.
In my opinion, John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum is a thrilling action film that delivers on its promise of non-stop excitement. It's a worthy addition to the John Wick saga, even if it doesn't quite reach the heights of the first two films. The film's action sequences are some of the best in the series, and the expansion of the John Wick universe is fascinating. Parabellum is a must-see for fans of the franchise and action movie enthusiasts alike.
5. Ballerina
As a spin-off set within the John Wick universe, Ballerina brings a fresh perspective to the franchise while maintaining the core elements that fans love. Directed by Len Wiseman and starring Ana de Armas, Ballerina introduces a new protagonist, Rooney, a ballerina assassin seeking revenge for her family's murder. While Ballerina captures the stylish action and intricate world-building of the John Wick films, it doesn't quite reach the same heights as the main series installments.
Ballerina's strengths lie in its action choreography and Ana de Armas's compelling performance. The fight sequences are creative and brutal, blending balletic grace with the franchise's signature gun-fu style. De Armas brings a fierce intensity and vulnerability to her role, making Rooney a character that viewers can root for. The film also benefits from its exploration of the Ruska Roma, a criminal organization previously mentioned in the John Wick films, adding depth to the universe's lore.
However, Ballerina suffers from a somewhat predictable plot and a lack of originality in its narrative structure. The revenge story, while emotionally resonant, treads familiar ground, and the film's pacing can feel uneven at times. While the action sequences are impressive, they sometimes lack the emotional weight and narrative context that make the John Wick films so impactful. Additionally, some of the supporting characters feel underdeveloped, which diminishes their impact on the story.
Despite its flaws, Ballerina is a solid action film that expands the John Wick universe in interesting ways. The film's connections to the main series, including appearances from Keanu Reeves as John Wick and Ian McShane as Winston, are welcome additions that will please fans. Ballerina demonstrates the potential for future spin-offs and expansions of the John Wick universe, but it also highlights the challenges of maintaining the quality and originality of the main series.
In my opinion, Ballerina is a worthwhile entry in the John Wick franchise, but it falls short of the high standards set by the main series films. Ana de Armas delivers a standout performance, and the action sequences are well-executed, but the film's predictable plot and underdeveloped supporting characters hold it back. Ballerina is a promising start for a potential spin-off series, but it needs to carve out its own unique identity to truly shine.
Final Thoughts
The John Wick franchise has become a cornerstone of modern action cinema, and ranking these films is a testament to their consistent quality and impact. Each film brings something unique to the table, whether it's groundbreaking action choreography, intricate world-building, or compelling character development. While my ranking reflects my personal preferences, it's clear that the John Wick series has set a new standard for action movies.
From the original John Wick to the latest installments, the franchise has consistently delivered thrilling entertainment and expanded its rich universe in exciting ways. John Wick: Chapter 4 stands as a masterpiece of the genre, while the original John Wick remains a benchmark for action storytelling. John Wick: Chapter 2 and Chapter 3 – Parabellum continue the saga with style and substance, and Ballerina offers a promising glimpse into the potential for future spin-offs.
As a fan, I'm excited to see what the future holds for the John Wick franchise. The world of assassins, high-stakes action, and intricate lore is ripe for further exploration, and I have no doubt that future installments will continue to thrill and captivate audiences. Whether it's new chapters in John Wick's story or spin-offs that explore different corners of the universe, the John Wick franchise has a bright future ahead.
Ultimately, the John Wick movies are more than just action films; they're a celebration of cinematic artistry, storytelling, and the enduring appeal of the action genre. They've raised the bar for action cinema, and their influence will be felt for years to come. As I eagerly await the next chapter in this saga, I'm grateful for the thrills, the characters, and the world that the John Wick franchise has given us.
