John Wick is the best action movie I have seen in years. First time directing duo Chad Tahelski and David Leitch have created a classic. In fact, I haven't been this pumped about an action movie since Equilibrium.
The role of John Wick was made for Keeanu Reeves. There is minimal dialogue and Reeves gets to focus on kicking ass in a completely dispassionate manner, as if it were a foregone conclusion. In fact, the people Wick is after realize that it largely is a foregone conclusion. Michael Nyqvist is a great mob boss. John Legiuzamo shows up for a small but crucial role. Three roles stand out for me though: Willem Dafoe as Wick's assassin friend, Adrianne Palicki as a female assassin foe of Wick's, and Alfie Allen as the guy you love to hate who wrongs Wick. Seriously, Alfie Allen has likely been permanently typecast as a guy you want to punch in the face. See e.g. Theon Greyjoy.
The fight sequences are more or less believable. The details are great. You can hear shells drop after each shot, Wick takes time to reload, and everything seems so deliberate. The way the movie is shot reminds me somewhat of the first Matrix in that there is a certain minimalist quality to the sets, lighting, and characters. I loved the fact that the movie gave you a glimpse of the underworld, and how Wick is this mythical figure in it. If you like action movies you owe it to yourself to see this movie. I mean, there is no way it will disappoint you.
10/10, perfect action revenge movie. seriously, 10 out of 10.
Agreed! Kinda hope they make another one, since they have a really cool setup with that hotel. Liked this film more than Jack Ryan, Shadow Recruit. John Wick is so good, it reminds me, yet again, I wasted two hours on Jack Reacher. Have you seen November Man yet?
ReplyDeleteHave not seen November Man, but Netflix wants me to see it.
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