John Wick: Chapter 2 explodes onto the screen with more bullets and breathtaking action sequences than coherent dialogue, and frankly, that’s precisely why it works so well. For action movie aficionados, this sequel to the surprise hit John Wick is a masterclass in visceral, in-camera stunt work and a further deep dive into a fascinating underworld of assassins. While the script might not win any awards for its prose, John Wick 2 movie delivers an adrenaline-fueled experience that prioritizes breathtaking action above all else, and in that, it triumphs spectacularly.
Alt text: John Wick dynamically dual-wields pistols in a high-intensity action scene from John Wick: Chapter 2, showcasing the film’s signature gun-fu style.
Keanu Reeves, while not renowned for dramatic range, is undeniably one of the most dedicated performers in Hollywood, and John Wick: Chapter 2 is a testament to his physical commitment. Dialogue is sparse, and Reeves likely has fewer lines than spent shell casings in the film. While some deliveries might lack Shakespearean depth, it becomes almost irrelevant. One might ponder if a John Wick film with Bond-level scripting could be even greater, but that’s missing the point. We come to John Wick 2 movie to witness Keanu Reeves unleash a relentless barrage of expertly choreographed action, and in this regard, the movie over-delivers.
Picking up shortly after the original, John Wick: Chapter 2 finds our protagonist attempting to embrace a peaceful retirement, albeit a short-lived one. Where the first film was fueled by revenge, this installment sees Wick reluctantly drawn back into the assassin life due to an inescapable debt. It’s debatable whether a franchise was initially envisioned, but John Wick 2 movie firmly establishes a compelling and expanding universe. A key appeal of this series lies in its unique world-building. While set in the present day, the reality surrounding Wick is heightened, populated by a clandestine society of highly skilled assassins. Yet, remarkably, the films maintain a sense of grounded realism. This delicate equilibrium is a rare achievement in action cinema.
Alt text: Interior view of The Continental Hotel lobby from John Wick: Chapter 2, emphasizing its opulent design and serving as a neutral ground for assassins within the John Wick universe.
Taking the iconic action movie threat to an extreme, Wick’s declaration “I will kill them all” essentially encapsulates the film’s premise. Reluctant to return, Wick honors his debt, only to find himself a target with a massive bounty, triggering a relentless onslaught from virtually every assassin linked to The Continental network. The ensuing runtime is a symphony of creatively brutal takedowns as Wick dispatches wave after wave of adversaries. One can’t help but wonder when this man will finally catch a break.
In conclusion, John Wick: Chapter 2 delivers precisely what it promises: a torrent of visceral, practically executed action, a refreshing contrast to CGI-heavy contemporaries. Even if the dialogue occasionally falters and some performances lean towards the theatrical, these minor shortcomings are easily overlooked. The John Wick series continues to be a welcome and surprising force in a cinematic landscape often lacking in genuinely thrilling action movies.
Pros:
- Incredibly well-executed action choreography
- Expands the scope and scale beyond the first film
- The richly detailed universe crafted by Derek Kolstad
Cons:
- Some dialogue can be uninspired and simplistic
8.6/10
