Holy shitballs. I'm trying to think of what to say if you were standing in front of me, and I was trying to describe JOHN WICK to you- the first phrase that seriously comes to mind is holy shitballs. My superior eloquence aside, it is just so damn fun to watch Keanu Reeves be a total badass.
JOHN WICK is the story of a former hit man (Reeves) who is grieving the loss of his beloved wife. When he receives a posthumous gift of an adorable puppy from his love, a ray of hope ignites in his destroyed spirit. In a vicious turn of events, however, a group of Russian thugs invade his home, kill his dog, and steal his sweet vintage muscle car. What transpires next is simply one of the best revenge films I've ever seen. I know. Hyperbole again. But just trust me on this one. If you like to see bad guys get what they deserve, JOHN WICK absolutely hits the nail on the head.
Aside from the multiple kickass fight sequences and people getting shot in the face (SO many people get shot in the face), I am just completely in love with the underground bad guy universe that writer Derek Kolstad has created. Who knew there could be a special bad guy hotel with an in-house doctor and a special code of ethics barring business while on the premises? That Russian Orthodox Church on the corner? You may want (better yet not want) to take a closer look at the goings on behind the pulpit. And believe me, I haven't even spoiled anything yet. Let's just say JOHN WICK is a very well known name in the crime world, and those Russian thugs truly messed with the wrong former baddie who now has nothing to lose.
If I were to point out any misstep in the film it might be Adrienne Palecki's Miss Perkins character. Now, I am a huge fan of Palecki, and she does a terrific job here, but I can't help the feeling that her character is a tad bit obligatory. I appreciate the inclusion of a female badass here, and it pains me to admit it, but her character sadly does little to move the story forward.
Aside from this minor critique, JOHN WICK is satisfying to the Nth degree. Keanu Reeves does a lovely job as a ruthless avenger. Though the subject matter is very dark, there are countless lighter moments that keep the uber violence in check. Smaller bits by John Leguizamo, Willem DeFoe, and Ian McShane round out a great cast and also lend some extra gravitas to the shoot 'em up.
I loved JOHN WICK and I hope you will too!
Cheers,
Rebecca Elliott, aka Annette Kellerman
