The “John Wick” franchise has taken the action genre by storm. With four films released and a fifth on the way, the series shows no signs of slowing down. The latest entry, “Ballerina,” is a spinoff starring Ana de Armas as Eva Macarro, a ballerina turned assassin.
“Ballerina” takes place during the events of “John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum.” Eva seeks revenge on the man who murdered her father. While the film has some pacing issues in the first half, the action choreography in the latter part brings back the spark fans love. Keanu Reeves reprises his role as John Wick in a small but vital part.
Looking at the main series, “John Wick: Chapter 4” stands tall as the best entry. The nearly 3-hour epic moves breathlessly from one perfectly staged setpiece to another. From the Osaka Continental fight to the car chase in Paris, the film is a masterclass in action filmmaking.
The cast, including Donnie Yen and Bill Skarsgård, is the strongest in the series. “John Wick: Chapter 2” comes in a close second. The sequel deepens the world-building and heightens the tone of the baroque criminal underworld.
Expanding the Wick universe
The action is more creative and audacious, with standout scenes like the silent subway shootout and the mirror room fight. The original “John Wick” may feel small compared to its sequels, but it nailed the style and tone from the start.
Reeves’ performance as the heartbroken hitman gives the story genuine pathos. The Red Circle nightclub sequence remains a franchise highlight. “John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum” rounds out the list.
While still a strong entry, the pacing is a bit slack, and the cliffhanger ending prevents it from fully standing on its own. For fans looking to catch up on the series, all four main films are available on Peacock, Fubo TV, USA Network, and NBC.com. “Chapter 4” is also streaming on Starz.
With “Ballerina” expanding the “Wick” universe, there are plenty of possibilities for future spinoffs. Potential ideas include a Halle Berry-led film about Sofia Al-Azwar, an origin story for Laurence Fishburne’s Bowery King, a medieval tale about the High Table, and a showcase for Shamier Anderson’s Mr. Nobody. The “John Wick” franchise has set a new standard for action cinema.
As the series continues to grow, fans can expect more thrilling adventures in this immersive world of assassins.
