Film: John Wick: Chapter 4
Cast: Keanu Reeves, Donnie Yen, Bill Skarsgard, Lance Reddick, Laurence Fishburne, Ian McShane, Shamier Anderson
Director: Chad Stahelski
Rating: 4 Moons
How much action is too much action? Possibly in the universe of John Wick, there ain't any scope to even complain about the insanity that's injected. In what's supposedly the last film of the franchise which began in 2014, Keanu Reeves and director Chad Stahelski serve nothing but an adrenaline rush for almost 3 hours straight.
'Excommunicado' John Wick (Keanu Reeves) has had enough of the High Table, the group of global crime lords and he sees this as the last chance to seek freedom from it. Having killed one of the 'elders', the assassin is on the radar of Marquis (Bill Skarsgård) who sends numerous killers after Wick. The journey for him isn't getting easier as the final showdown will be a herculean task. As he attempts to run away from his chaotic and violent life, he needs to clear several obstacles. In the middle of this, John has to face blind martial arts master Caine (Donnie Yen) and ‘Nobody’ (Shamier Anderson).
Throughout the film, John fights assassins at picturesque locations in Japan, Russia, and Paris, and the ride is thrilling, joyful and exciting. Director Chad Stahelski is aware of the demands of his audience from the franchise and once again, he delivers on the expectations. As the action begins, it is a must for you to fasten the seatbelts because there are moments that will make your jaws drop and catch you off guard.
With each action piece designed meticulously, there's no chance to complain about a single one even if the sequence's runtime touches 30 minutes. Adopting a policy of being unapologetic in the department of brutality, Chad acquaints the audience with never seen before stunts. Be it blind Caine's insanely clever idea to identify silent attackers to a mind-blowing and elaborate pre-climax stunt, there's no compromise on delivering top-notch moments.
Right from the word go, John Wick: Chapter 4 begins the mission of executing one of the finest action films we have seen in recent years. The beauty and credit lie in the detailing that went into every stunt. Mind you, if you even blink even for a fraction of a second, there is a possibility of missing out on something jaw-dropping. Any form of distraction could be problematic but John Wick: Chapter 4 doesn't give you the chance to look away from the screen. The film offers a treat to the audience with sequences set in locations that are gorgeous and enigmatic.
The colour palette used also plays an important role in setting the mood right. From deep blood reds to blacks and sunset shades, each complements the action that's taking place on the screen. The cinematographer and stunt doubles deserve special mention for executing a film that will be remembered for its unique and fresh action sequences.
The hero of John Wick: Chapter 4 is Keanu Reeves. It won't be wrong to say Keanu Reeves is John Wick. Owning the character to the fullest, he adds his heart and soul to a role that's dangerously difficult to present. Once again, he will make you whistle, hoot and cheer for the character. Donnie Yen is outstanding as Caine. A beast in disguise, the blind martial arts master is a person one should be scared of. The actor is menacing yet fun to watch. Another star performer in John Wick: Chapter 4 is the dog. Watch out for some insanely fun scenes.
John Wick: Chapter 4, brought to the audience by Lionsgate and PVR Pictures, is all that you expect. Home to high-octane stunts, thrilling moments and loads of unfiltered fun, this action spectacle serves just the right amount of cinematic joy and rush to make the theatre visit worthwhile.
PeepingMoon gives John Wick: Chapter 4 4 Moons