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John Wick
When most of the dialogue in a film consists of its characters repeating its protagonist’s name in a foreboding light, what else are you going to call it? However, a more suitable name for this movie might have been ‘Krazy Kool Subtitle Fun!’, as never before has there been a more ridiculous method of formatting to text what Russian mobsters are saying on screen. That said, John Wick manages to keep its head above water in a sea of old man actioners that have flooded the cinemas since Taken. It does this in two ways: stylish gun toting scenes that Keanu Reeves practically waltzes through, and an admirable lack of bullshit in its plot.
Like so many others in this recent genre, the movie acts as a career rejuvenation for Keanu Reeves, who has struggled to impress since 2006’s A Scanner Darkly. He remains downplayed but gives his physical all, doing his own stunts in hugely entertaining fight scenes. Michael Nyqvist gives a superfluous performance as Viggo Tarasov- the villain of the piece- but remains likeable throughout. Alfie Allen acts the prick as usual as Iosef Tarasov, Viggo’s son. Willem Dafoe is in this movie, but God knows why. To use such a famous face in a non-descript and unnecessary role is bewildering, meaning much of what he brought to the role is probably on the editing room floor. The other players here all have fun, and other cameos, such as Ian Mcshane's Winston or Lance Reddick’s Charon, make far more sense and are used to greater effect.
Director Chad Stahelski comes from an illustrious career as a stuntman to this, his first time taking the helm as a director. Inevitably, the action is where he shines, and a nightclub shootout remains the centerpiece here. It is an entertaining, albeit mindless, movie that needs to be considered within the context of this newfound genre. This is where John Wick gets best in show. It probably goes without saying that John Wick 2 has got the greenlight.
Written by Rob Buckley |
Written by Richard O Connell |