John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum (2019) Movie Review

Synopsis:

After his excommunication, John Wick (Keanu Reeves) must contend with The High Table’s assassins at every turn. Left with no other choice, John seeks refuge in Casablanca. This is where he encounters an old friend, Sofia (Halle Berry).

Review:

John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum expands Chapter 2’s scope even further.

Chapter 3 includes more high-octane action sequences and immersive visuals. It also has a robust cast of characters.

Parabellum is a series of conversations leading up to cluttered, yet entertaining, action. This was also the same case with the previous John Wick installment.

As a direct continuation of Chapter 2, Parabellum puts the audience straight into the action.

Take Chapter 3’s intro as a primary example. It has John Wick battling assassins using books, horses, and other improvised methods.

From a creativity standpoint, Parabellum excels in these areas. This is despite the action dragging its feet towards the film’s conclusion.

Take, for example, when Wick battles The High Table’s armored soldiers at New York’s The Continental Hotel.

As expected, this scene includes a wide range of weaponry. After a time, it becomes a never-ending shootout, which lowers immersion.

Once this scene has concluded, John now has to face one of the central antagonists, Zero (Mark Dacascos). Wick must also face Zero's students.

As a whole, this fight is impressive from a visual perspective. Regardless of it being well-shot, its momentum begins to falter over time.

Still, other fight sequences are more consistent in quality, which fans will appreciate.

Parabellum offers a new presence in the film in the form of The Adjudicator (Asia Kate Dillon).

For context, Dillon’s character is the main antagonist. She has an almost emotionless expression throughout the film.

This may have been an intentional choice. Regardless, a wider acting range from the actress would have been more than welcome.

Also joining the cast is Halle Berry’s Sofia, an old associate of John’s.

Most of Halle's screen time is in an action sequence involving dogs in Casablanca. Despite this, Halle is a capable performer with her stunts and shows promise.

Ian McShane’s Winston and Lance Reddick’s Charon return to the franchise. Also, Laurence Fishburne’s The Bowery King makes his return.

In this installment, Charon has more of an active role in the film’s conclusion. He helps Wick against The High Table’s forces during the film's conclusion.

Director Chad Stahelski continues to impress with his visual style for Parabellum.

Examples of these are New York City’s rain-covered streets and Casablanca’s treacherous alleyways.

So, from a visual standpoint, Chapter 3 does not disappoint.

Conclusion:

As a whole, Parabellum is a welcome, if tired, addition to the franchise.

This is despite its disjointed storyline and action that overstays its welcome. Regardless, it is an above-average watch for John Wick fans.

Sam’s Action Reaction score:

Characters - 6/10

Story - 5.5/10

Action - 7.5/10

Visuals - 8/10

Soundtrack - 7/10

Overall score: 6.8 out of 10