“I do love a good action movie, and in the couple years since the first John Wick’s release, it’s gained a reputation as being among the best. My write up is pretty sparse, but over time my usual response is that it has some amazing action sequences, but the story and pacing had some issues. Still, the amazing-ness of the visuals was enough to get me hella excited.
And the excitement was very much warranted. Similar to the shift we saw between The Raid and The Raid 2 (another of the greatest small scale action franchises of the new millennium), Chapter 2 tightened up the story and went flashier with the action, really taking things to the next level.
Let’s talk about those action sequences first. Once again, we’re directed by Chad Stahelski, Keanu Reeves’ stunt double from The Matrix, and just that statement should tell you what potential this movie has. The fight choreography was so beautifully clean and precise and creative. There was a realism to it as well. I mean, I can’t do the moves they were doing, but I could fully believe that these guys could. No wire work, no CGI, just pure movement, and it was among the best I’ve seen lately.
I also love how well this character fits Keanu. He’s stoic and strong, with his own moral code. It allows Reeves to utilize the discipline he has as an actor, but limits his dialog. It works. I’m excited for him. I want to see more.
Also, the puppy is awesome.
John Wick: Chapter 2 – \m/ \m/ \m/ \m/”