‘John Wick: Chapter 4’ Movie Review: Intense, Thrilling, and the Best of the Franchise

John Wick Chapter 4 Movie Review

The trailer for John Wick: Chapter 4 promises an explosive, action-packed ride. And I can confirm the movie does not disappoint. With its early premiere at SXSW, the franchise’s fourth installment has already been generating positive buzz and raving reviews. But this time around, the stakes are much higher, and the film as a whole is more intense, complex, and engrossing than its predecessors. 

In John Wick: Chapter 4, John Wick (Keanu Reeves) takes on his most lethal adversaries to date. With the price over his head ever increasing, Wick takes on a fight with the High Table as he seeks out the most powerful players in the underworld, from New York to Paris to Osaka to Berlin. Check out the trailer below.

John Wick 4 Movie Trailer

John Wick: Chapter 4 Movie Review: What I Did and Didn’t Like

Just 11 minutes shy of a 3-hour run time, John Wick Chapter 4 is a thrilling ride of non-stop action sequences, a fair amount of violence, and a dash of emotion. In what may be the best John Wick to date, the film does a solid job at paying homage to the previous films while still further expanding the world – as there’s no shortage of content to come. But note we’re keeping things spoiler-free for this review – as this one has some big spoilers.

Acting

Keanu Reeves delivers a brilliant performance yet again as John Wick. He brings a dedication, an air of confidence, and an intensity to the role for which he was born. And, it’s arguably his best performance in the franchise so far. 

Bill Skarsgård, who plays Marquis, does a captivating job of creating a layered and utterly terrifying villain. Yet, he constructs clear vulnerabilities inside of those boundaries that produce an opportunity for Wick as well as hope from the audience that Wick will be able to take him down.

Another performance of note is that of Donnie Yen, who plays Caine. His character offers a challenge that adds an overall complexity. Yet, Yen is able to tackle the role in such an effective way, both physically and emotionally.

Lawrence Fishburne and Ian McShane return, as does Lance Reddick, who gives a strong, brief final performance as Charon. Shamier Anderson also stars, giving a skilled performance. I suspect we’ll see more of him in coming content from the John Wick-verse.

John Wick 4
Photo Credit: Lionsgate

Script

Compared with the script from the last film, we get a simplified story with John Wick Chapter 4. The storyline behind this installment falls effortlessly in line with the franchise, exploring the themes the franchise is known for – loss, vengeance, and self-reflection.

The script is cleverly written and sharp, dabbled with plenty of witty one-liners throughout. And while some of the action sequences feel a bit excessive at points, the script does a good job of creating an overall balance.

Fight Choreography

While the fights are a bit over-the-top at times, the absurdity of some of these sequences never feels annoying. If anything, they feel more comical and surprising than anything else.

The level of intricacy that has gone into designing the action in this film is evident from the first few scenes. It’s not just about power moves, fancy weapons, or impressive acrobatics. What’s showcased here is a majestic level of grace and strength, which is incredibly entrancing to watch. And the way that camera falls into each of these fights, it feels like an effortless dance that is truly mesmerizing for the audience to watch.

John Wick 4 Movie
Photo Credit: Lionsgate

Overall Thoughts

After three films, it would be understandable if this fourth movie felt a bit tired and played out. And I would argue that we almost started to feel that in Chapter 3. However, there’s no sign of slowing down with John Wick: Chapter 4.

Overall, it’s a solid addition to the franchise. I’d even go so far as to say it’s the best of the John Wick movies to date. With riveting stunts, pacing that doesn’t let up, and thrilling action sequences that will keep you on the edge of your seat, this one is a must-see on the big screen.

John Wick: Chapter 4 Movie Review

Grade: A

John Wick: Chapter 4 60-Second Movie Review

Note: FanBolt’s Featured Image is fan art created by FanBolt purely for the love of design and fan culture. (We’re movie and design nerds). The property and fandom inspire the artwork, and no infringement is/was intended. John Wick 4 is the property of Lionsgate.

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