John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023) Movie Review

Synopsis:

As the bounty on his head continues to increase, hitman John Wick (Keanu Reeves) must seek help from trusted allies. Meanwhile, he battles with The High Table’s assassins around the globe, from Japan to Germany.

Review:

Director Chad Stahelski’s John Wick sequels continued to expand the world he established.

What is even more evident in John Wick’s many sequels is its approach to action sequences. These become more outlandish in both scope and scale.

This is no different in Chapter 4, as its action includes many lethal weapons.

These range from nunchucks to swords. Fans of John Wick should also expect many guns throughout.

Chapter 4’s action sequences are also innovative in their approach.

These include a brawl in a Berlin nightclub and guns vs. swords clashing in Osaka, Japan.

There is also a video game-inspired sequence that takes place in a run-down building in Paris.

This is one of, if not, Chapter 4’s most creative action sequences. In it, Wick blasts apart enemies, all shot from an overhead angle.

It is also well-paced, never relenting in the action for one second.

This film’s action is impactful. It has solid stunt work that was present in the previous entries.

Contributing to this action is Keanu Reeves’ usual dedication as John Wick. This is alongside a new addition to the franchise, Caine (Donnie Yen).

For brief context, Caine is a former assassin and an old friend of John Wick.

Donnie is a popular action star in his own right. He is a welcome presence, bringing his unique fighting styles along with him.

Any action sequence involving him is also well-choreographed. They also serve to highlight Donnie’s rapid-fire striking techniques.

Contributing to the action is Chad Stahelski’s distinctive visual style. With it, Chapter 4 brings the most immersive shots to date.

As an example, these highlight Japan’s oriental nature. Take, for example, when it depicts its pink and crimson blossom trees.

Chapter 4's visuals also highlight Paris and Berlin’s grand architecture. With Chapter 4, Stahelski hits the mark.

As expected, several of John Wick’s staple characters return in this fourth entry.

These range from Laurence Fishburne’s The Bowery King to Ian McShane’s Winston.

Also, making a very brief return is Lance Reddick’s Charon. For context, he's the former concierge of New York City’s The Continental Hotel.

This film’s antagonist, Bill Skarsgård’s Marquis de Gramont, is a notable figure of The High Table.

With this role, Skarsgård brings a sadistic, plotting villain and a good performance.

Toward the film’s conclusion, though, he becomes more of a secondary threat. As a result, he loses his sense of purpose.

Also, making his debut appearance is Shamier Anderson as Mr Nobody.

His character’s role in this film is acting as a tracker to take down notable contracts for a major payout.

Although Anderson’s appearance is sporadic throughout, his acting performance is decent.

He's also a capable performer during the action sequences.

Chapter 4's plot follows a similar structure to the previous two entries. These include moments of exposition followed by extended action sequences.

This can, on occasion, slow down proceedings. Despite this, Chapter 4 gives its characters more meaning.

This is an area where Chapters 2 and 3 had difficulty. They both spent little time setting future events in motion.

Conclusion:

John Wick: Chapter 4 is another entertaining action film in this series.

Alongside the action sequences, Chad Stahelski’s visuals are exemplary. With them, he gives audiences many noteworthy shots throughout.

As a whole, performances from the cast are above average. This is despite them not being as impressive as the film’s visuals.

New additions to the cast, such as Donnie Yen, Shamier Anderson, and Bill Skarsgård, are also welcome. As a whole, the latter of those three is the least consistent.

Chapter 4 has occasional pacing issues and overwhelming action. Despite these flaws, Keanu Reeves or John Wick fans are sure to leave satisfied.

Sam’s Action Reaction score:

Characters - 6.5/10

Story - 6/10

Action - 8/10

Visuals - 8.5/10

Soundtrack - 7/10

Overall score: 7.2 out of 10