Jacked In Reviews ‘John Wick: Chapter 4’ (2023)

Okay, let’s get down to it, boppers. As you settle into your IMAX cinema seat – all nice and cosy – the film starts to begin, and then, without warning your eardrums burst at the sound of wrapped fists hitting a bloodied board. This isn’t our first rodeo, we know there’s only one man that can throw a punch like that and his name… is John Wick (Keanu Reeves).

From the word go, he does not stop to rest, John just does what needs to be done, going harder than ever before – with his signature headshots and overall badassery.

It’s fair to say, the stakes are well and truly raised in Chapter 4, with the “big baddy” of this sequel, the Marquis Vincent De Gramont (Bill Skarsgård) who has all of the table at his disposal – particularly John’s old acquaintance, Caine (Donnie Yen). Ever since the devastating loss of his dog in Chapter 1, John has been a force to be reckoned with whilst on his neverending vengeful quest – and this film is no exception. From the word go, he does not stop to rest, John just does what needs to be done, going harder than ever before – with his signature headshots and overall badassery.

It has to be said, director, Chad Stahelski plasters his strengths all over the screen from start to finish. As well as the usual insanely awesome stunts and choreography, the cinematography almost makes you feel like you’re playing a “shoot ’em up” videogame and watching live-action anime simultaneously. Especially with the elongated shots and the use of colour between the action beats, it beautifully complements this world of assassination and martial arts.

There’s something to be said about action movie franchises that up the ante with each instalment, running the risk of going too far, too ridiculous, and no longer within the realms of believability from where it started. However, the Wick series truly is the exception that proves this fact. Why? Maybe it’s due to the fact our leading man is played by one of the most loveable humans in Hollywood or perhaps it’s Reeves’ dedication to the role, which adds some legitimacy to the character. Either way, much like this chapter’s predecessors, we are happy following Mr Wick anywhere he wishes to take us and these movies definitely don’t look like they’ll be wearing thin anytime soon.

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