Legendary action film director John Woo, known for his revolutionary “bullet ballet” style, has expressed admiration for the John Wick film series, acknowledging its stylistic lineage while humbly suggesting it surpasses his own work. In a recent interview in Los Angeles, Woo, the visionary behind iconic action films like The Killer and Face/Off, shared his thoughts on the John Wick franchise and reflected on his enduring influence on action cinema.
John Woo’s “Bullet Ballet” Revolution
John Woo redefined the action genre with his signature “bullet ballet” sequences in Hong Kong cinema. Films like The Killer, Hard Boiled, and Bullet in the Head showcased a unique blend of stylized gunfights, slow-motion action, and operatic emotionality. This innovative approach, characterized by acrobatic stunts and a focus on visual aesthetics during violent confrontations, became his trademark. Woo later brought this distinctive style to Hollywood, directing action blockbusters such as Hard Target, Broken Arrow, and Mission: Impossible II, further cementing his status as a master of action filmmaking.
Humble Admiration for John Wick
Despite his pioneering contributions to action cinema, John Woo displayed remarkable humility when discussing the John Wick films. He openly praised the series for carrying the torch of his action style, even suggesting they have refined and improved upon it. “They even do a very much better job than me,” Woo told UPI, emphasizing a sense of camaraderie within the action film community. “I feel we’re all in a big family, every person together. I have so much joy watching John Wick. It’s so stylish. The action was so good. I love it.” His words highlight the cyclical nature of influence and innovation within film, where one generation’s groundbreaking work inspires and informs the next.
Silent Night: John Woo’s Return to Hollywood
Currently, John Woo is promoting his upcoming film Silent Night, marking his return to Hollywood filmmaking after two decades. Starring Joel Kinnaman, Silent Night tells the story of a grieving father seeking revenge against those responsible for his son’s death. This action-thriller, notable for its lack of dialogue, promises to deliver Woo’s signature action style with a contemporary edge. Silent Night represents Woo’s first Hollywood venture since 2003’s Paycheck, signaling a welcome comeback for fans of his high-octane filmmaking.
Face/Off Legacy and Future Ideas
Adding to the excitement surrounding John Woo’s resurgence, there are ongoing discussions about a sequel to his iconic 1997 film Face/Off. While Adam Wingard and Simon Barrett are reportedly developing Face/Off 2, Woo revealed his own alternative concept for a sequel. He envisioned a story centered around two women undergoing a face-swapping operation, believing it could offer a fresh and intriguing narrative. However, he indicated that the studio did not seem enthusiastic about this particular idea. Regardless of the direction Face/Off sequels may take, the original film remains a testament to Woo’s innovative storytelling and action choreography.
In conclusion, John Woo’s recent interview underscores his lasting impact on action cinema and his gracious acknowledgment of John Wick‘s success. As he prepares to release Silent Night, audiences are reminded of Woo’s significant contributions to the genre and eagerly anticipate his unique brand of action filmmaking in this new project. His reflections not only celebrate the evolution of action films but also reaffirm his position as a true visionary and influential figure in cinematic history.
