John Wick is back. The first film was an action masterclass, combining modern elements of gunfighting with that of eastern martial arts. All choreographed perfectly and executed with precision filmmaking. It started a resurgence of the action movie in a year that also saw Captain America: The Winter Soldier and The Raid 2.
In John Wick 2, the scope is bigger, after he’s forced out of retirement (yet again) he’s on the warpath, to take down everyone who sought to destroy his freedom.
THE GOOD
It’s not a re-hash, nevertheless, in terms of structure and screenplay John Wick 2 is very similar to the original. We see the same types of scenes that are visually reminiscent of the first film too but this isn’t even an issue as the film does add new things in between, plus, when the action is so damn good anyway, what does it matter? It’s still exciting entertaining stuff.
In fact, John Wick 2 is hard to fault. It doesn’t have that many problems, director Chad Tahelski (half of the duo that directed the first film) has a firm grasp of what the film is and it’s tone, he adheres to it as much as he can. Yes, the dialogue scenes are stilted, short and leave you wanting. But the filmmakers know that and they own it.
TOO MUCH WORLD BUILDING
It’s cool to see how John Wick gears up for a mission, where he gets his arsenal of weapons, where he suits up and where he gathers intelligence. There’s such a thing as too much world building, though, or at least, showing the audience too much. In the first film, we were left with hints of the underground assassin world, it was a backdrop for the story to sit on. However, in John Wick 2 the story is pushed right through it and the subtlety disappears. The world feels less nuanced, comic booky and at times very over the top. It doesn’t ruin the film by any means, but with the information solely shown to us in this film, we have enough to build a John Wick fan wiki.
WHOA.
From a technical standpoint, the film is top notch when it comes to its action. Wide shots, cuts only when needed and sound editing that’s perfect too. A cool soundtrack to accompany it and some well-composed shots at times, means John Wick is an absolute joy to behold when it gets to it’s set pieces. Clearly, John Wi-*cough* Keanu Reeves I mean, is a very talented man. The camera makes sure to show you this, he reloads by flicking metal magazines with his finger, equips his sidearms in a matter of seconds and performs all his judo takedowns with ruthlessness. This is what action movies are meant to be about, and it leaves us, the audience in awe of his skills.
THE VERDICT
Like it’s predecessor, John Wick knows exactly what kind of movie it is and never forgets it. It builds on scope and the assassin world we were introduced to, however, it loses the emotional charm and subtleness of the first.
RATING: 7.5/10
Words by Levi Eddie Aluede