Greetings once again! After a hiatus of four years following the cinematic installment “John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum,” the collaborative talents of director Chad Stahelski and the esteemed Keanu Reeves have graced theaters once more with the highly anticipated John Wick Chapter 4 Initially slated for release almost two years prior, this cinematic offering has proven its delayed arrival well justified. Stahelski, alongside the accomplished writer’s Shay Hatten and Michael Finch, has artfully distilled the intricate mythos that characterized the preceding chapters, harmonizing it with the visceral and streamlined action reminiscent of the franchise’s inaugural entry. These endeavors culminate in a climactic final hour that unequivocally asserts its position amongst the pinnacle of its genre.
John Wick Chapter 4 gracefully unfolds with the titular protagonist, portrayed by Reeves, once again trapped in a high-stakes escapade as he contends with the formidable Powers That Be, known as the High Table. This shadowy assembly obstructs his path, propelling him into a relentless struggle for survival. At the epicenter of the series’ antagonistic force stands the enigmatic Marquis de Gramont, a commanding figure within the High Table portrayed by Bill Skarsgård. With unwavering determination, Gramont incessantly amplifies the bounty on Wick’s head, simultaneously orchestrating the meticulous eradication of residual complications, which may encompass the possible elimination of Winston Scott, portrayed by Ian McShane, and his segment of the intricate malevolent network.
The narrative commences in Japan, where Wick embarks on a quest for assistance from Shimazu, the distinguished head of the Osaka Continental, skillfully portrayed by Hiroyuki Sanada. Here, Wick’s journey becomes entwined with that of Caine, a visually impaired yet formidably skilled assassin affiliated with the High Table. This compelling character, portrayed by the remarkable Donnie Yen, lends an element of intrigue and danger to Wick’s mission.
Intermittently, Laurence Fishburne graces the screen as Wick’s resourceful mentor, providing him with essential tools for survival, including his signature bulletproof attire. Additionally, Shamier Anderson assumes the role of an assassin, patiently awaiting the optimal juncture for reaping the rewards of Wick’s imminent demise.
In a departure from recent installments, “John Wick: Chapter 4” exudes a palpable sense of narrative clarity, despite its expansive runtime of 169 minutes. The storyline pivots back to its roots, focusing on the undeniable essence of John Wick, his adversarial forces, and the ensuing riveting conflict.
Indeed, Stahelski and his adept team exhibit a remarkable prowess in crafting action sequences that uniquely blend a sense of immediacy with meticulous artistic choreography. Unlike filmmakers who tend to deliberate their portrayals of shoot-outs overly, Stahelski’s approach avoids the pitfall of creating a detachment, ensuring that every moment brims with stakes and substance rather than being mere stylistic indulgences. The adeptness of accomplished action directors lies in their ability to capture combat on camera without compromising the tautness of suspense for the allure of theatricality. Within “John Wick: Chapter 4,” the audience is treated to protracted engagements, gun-fu confrontations that pit John against many adversaries who fatally miscalculate his capabilities. What distinguishes these sequences is their unwavering momentum, meticulously calibrated to prevent any sense of overstaying their narrative relevance.
The “John Wick” film series excels in crafting high-stakes scenarios. A notable instance occurs when John, the protagonist, and his adversary meticulously define the parameters of a pivotal battle, outlining elements such as time allocation, weaponry, and variables. This level of precision characterizes all major action sequences throughout the series. Each encounter is marked by a distinct clarity regarding John’s objectives and the adversaries he must overcome to advance, akin to progressing through distinct levels in a game. This streamlined approach fosters a profound understanding of the narrative’s direction and serves as a canvas for intricate and captivating choreography. Unlike many contemporary action productions that often suffer from convoluted character dynamics or unclear goals, the “Wick” films stand out due to their remarkable clarity of purpose. This deliberate focus on intentionality provides the foundation upon which the films ingeniously explore creative avenues within their elegantly straightforward frameworks, resulting in a genuinely engaging cinematic experience.
The film captivates with its masterful choreography of action sequences, offering a breathtaking display of combat intricacies. Noteworthy is the juxtaposition of John Wick amidst his adversaries, where the vibrant world continues its bustling activities in stark contrast to the intense battles. A remarkable instance occurs within a bustling nightclub, where Wick confronts Scott Adkins’ character and his cohort, seamlessly weaving through the dancing crowd without causing a disruption. The club’s atmosphere, accentuated by cascading water, lends an innovative visual backdrop to the skirmish.
Another standout scene unfolds around the iconic Arc de Triomphe, a masterpiece of action composition that ranks among my favorites. Here, Wick and his pursuers engage in a high-octane clash within the bustling traffic circle. What sets this film apart is its deft depiction of the ordinary world’s obliviousness to the extraordinary events transpiring. Gunfire echoes through the streets, yet bystanders do not even crack open their windows in curiosity. This audacious choice highlights the enigmatic aura surrounding Wick and the secretive realm he inhabits. The film’s skillful portrayal of this parallel existence, where the legendary assassin can decimate scores without triggering a visible reaction, makes for an entrancing and visually striking cinematic experience.
Then there exists what I would term “Action Geography,” a realm where many have endeavored to emulate the dynamic essence of the “Bourne” film series. However, the outcomes have frequently skewed towards incoherence rather than harmony. Enter the accomplished cinematographer Dan Laustsen, known for his collaborations with visionary director Guillermo del Toro on acclaimed films such as “The Shape of Water” and “Nightmare Alley,” among others. In collaboration with Chad Stahelski, Laustsen ensures that the action sequences in this cinematic creation are lucid and profoundly impactful.
The prowess of the stunt work is nothing short of exceptional, amplified by the fact that the shoot-outs are not mere plot devices but intricate ballets of motion. Rather than succumbing to the commonplace plot-driven mechanisms of numerous studio productions, we find a symphony of grace and innovation every time Wick embarks on his vengeful endeavors. The synergy between the collaborators manifests as a seamless marriage of precision and brutality, resulting in a visual spectacle that is as compelling as sophisticated.
Indeed, a stellar ensemble cast undoubtedly contributes significantly to the film’s success. While Keanu Reeves’ character, John Wick, may have fewer lines in this installment compared to previous entries in the franchise, his portrayal masterfully conveys Wick’s unwavering determination, intertwined with an undercurrent of emotional fatigue that bestows greater depth upon this chapter. The evolution of Wick, transforming from a vengeful figure in the initial film to a seasoned survivor by the fourth, is deftly realized by Reeves, showcasing an acute understanding of the character’s developmental nuances.
Reeves exhibits astute restraint, tailoring his performance to harmonize with the film’s narrative. Such judicious portrayal preserves the character’s popularity and contributes to seamless integration within the film’s framework. Furthermore, this artistic choice allows supporting actors to shine across diverse emotional registers, notably Donnie Yen and Lance Reddick.
Donnie Yen, a luminary within the realm of combat sequences, delivers an exceptional performance beyond physical prowess, aptly capturing the interstitial moments that lend authenticity to his character. Yen’s seamless assimilation into the film is expected, yet his portrayal transcends expectations, enriching the cinematic experience.
Lance Reddick, portraying a mercenary seemingly driven solely by financial interests, infuses his character with a captivating enigma. Dedicated followers of the series will discern from the outset that Reddick’s character is not just a formidable warrior but also a dog enthusiast, a detail that resonates profoundly within the context of a universe that esteems both canine companions and their devoted guardians. This subtle layering of character traits contributes to the film’s multi-dimensional allure.
In summation, the synergy of a consummate cast elevates the film’s impact. Keanu Reeves’s adept portrayal, while marked by economy, enriches John Wick’s evolution. The deliberate restraint exercised by Reeves respects the character’s legacy. It facilitates the emergence of ancillary performers, particularly Donnie Yen and Lance Reddick, each contributing distinct hues to the film’s narrative fabric.
Wick’s armor remains nearly flawless throughout, marred only by a slight tendency toward narrative self-indulgence. Particularly in the early sequences, certain moments linger unnecessarily, suggesting that a more streamlined iteration of the film could achieve cinematic perfection, albeit within its already substantial 150-minute runtime.
Considerable attention has been directed toward the driving force behind theatre attendance within our current landscape, characterized by the aftermath of a pandemic and a prevalent streaming culture. Within this context, the forthcoming movie possesses a unique allure that is best experienced within the communal embrace of an enthralled audience. It exudes a contagious vitality inherent to action cinema, a collective environment where individuals converge to witness and appreciate the artistry and enthusiasm unfolding on screen. The immersive nature of this cinematic offering is most potent when experienced at a resounding volume and on an expansive canvas. The journey of John Wick tirelessly embarked upon has culminated in a cinematic creation that beckons for such an environment.
The North American premiere, hosted at the esteemed 2023 SXSW Film Festival, provided the setting for this review. The upcoming release of “John Wick: Chapter 4” on March 24th marks a cinematic event that holds the promise of igniting the passions of film enthusiasts.
