Review of John Wick

John Wick (2014)
10/10
Intense, fast-paced action movie that does not take itself too seriously
23 October 2014
The key to truly appreciating John Wick lies in knowing what you're getting yourself into when you go to see this movie. I was quite impressed by the group that attended the same screening as I did - everywhere I turned I could hear the same variation of "oh it's a movie about a guy whose dog gets killed and then he goes to take revenge by killing a lot of people." Sounds ludicrous I know. That's kind of the whole point though.

John Wick is not a story-driven movie. It is, however, a fun and funny, action-driven cinematic ride. I knew exactly what kind of film I was going to see and I got that and so much more. John Wick is a badass (who also happens to have an impeccable sense of style), does not really say much (part of what makes him such a badass) but knows quite a few ways to get rid of the people he decides to get rid of.

Guns, snipers, knives, things that go boom, fancy cars, a storm of violence interspersed with a few (intentional) laughter inducing moments. It's a movie that does not take itself seriously and does not expect its audience to either. It just gives you pure, unadulterated entertainment. Impressive supportive cast - it took me a while to recognize Michael Nyqvist (a Swedish actor) in a role of a Russian mobster. The parts of the dialogue that are in Russian are translated in an almost cartoonishly stylized manner that makes those scenes resemble a comic book more than a movie (I was half expecting to see text bubbles appearing).

It's a phenomenal B-movie that introduces an interesting view of the criminal underworld - juxtaposing classy and crude, unwritten rules in a manner of "honor among criminals" I'd say. It is a "testosterone in overdrive" type of movie but one that I believe will appeal to women as well. (if for no other reason than because John Wick is so incredibly cool) I know I'm grateful that I got to see it on a big screen - I think it's the only way to truly immerse yourself in and appreciate all the long, uninterrupted film takes that will make you hold your breath.

Need I even mention that I'd be thrilled beyond belief if there ends up being a sequel :)
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