John Wick: Chapter 2 (2017) Movie Review

Synopsis:

Hitman John Wick (Keanu Reeves) refuses an offer from a former associate, Santino D’Antonio (Riccardo Scamarcio). In retaliation, Santino destroys John’s home, leaving him with few options. In an attempt to solve this problem, John accepts an offer from Santino to kill his sister, Gianna (Claudia Gerini), in Rome.

Review:

Director Chad Stahelski returns with John Wick: Chapter 2. With it, he sought to expand John Wick’s world and introduce new characters.

This film offers an expanded look at how Wick operates under his superiors at The High Table.

Although this provides some intrigue, the film loses focus on its main narrative as a result.

Chapter 2 now has Wick operating on a global scale. As a result, the film’s scope expands beyond the first entry.

Given the film’s expanded scope, its visuals had to represent these new locations well.

Chapter 2 depicts Rome’s grand architecture and New York City’s bustling streets. As a whole, the film’s visuals help to display them to good effect.

Despite its striking visual style, Chapter 2’s story is less focused than its predecessor.

An expanded look into John Wick’s world is always appreciated. Despite that, the main narrative isn’t given as much attention.

Take how Chapter 2’s primary antagonist, Santino, remains a stationary character. This is until the plot decides to progress forward.

Besides his introduction, actor Riccardo Scamarcio is not given much more material for his character.

This is other than Santino’s pettiness over his sister, Gianna D’Antonio.

Although Chapter 2’s central narrative has problems, it introduces new characters. This includes Laurence Fishburne’s The Bowery King.

Seeing both Keanu and Laurence on the same screen again will please Matrix fans. This is despite their brief interactions.

Regardless, it is clear that Fishburne enjoyed portraying this character.

Also joining the cast is the American rapper, Common. For context, he portrays a rival assassin to John, Cassian.

Upon his introduction, he serves as a bodyguard to Santino D’Antonio’s sister, Gianna.

After her death, he and Wick engage in several hand-to-hand fights. These are both well-choreographed.

Chapter 2's action sequences bring a sense of familiarity with their tight camera work and sharp choreography.

Most of these sequences are also accompanied by solid visuals throughout. As a result, this engages the audience further.

As a whole, the action sequences in this film are well-shot.

Despite this, some sequences become monotonous due to endless gunfire. As a result, it affects Chapter 2’s pacing.

Characters from the first also make return appearances in Chapter 2.

These are Ian McShane's Winston and The Continental’s concierge, Charon (Lance Reddick).

Although these characters are not expanded upon, both actors deliver good performances.

Conclusion:

As a whole, John Wick: Chapter 2 gives audiences the same fast-paced action that they should expect.

It is also admirable of Chad Stahelski to explore new ground. This is despite the main narrative and antagonist not being up to standard.

Chapter 2’s action can also become tiresome due to endless shooting devolving into noise.

Regardless of these problems, the visuals are striking, offering some great shots throughout.

As a whole, John Wick: Chapter 2 has its shortcomings.

Despite this, the film should entertain fans of the first entry or Keanu Reeves as an actor.

Sam’s Action Reaction score:

Characters - 6.5/10

Story - 6/10

Action - 7/10

Visuals - 8/10

Soundtrack - 7/10

Overall score: 6.9 out of 10