Who would’ve thought a movie about a retired assassin seeking revenge against the men that killed his dog would end up being one of the breakout films of 2014. A premise seemingly meant for a straight to redbox Jason Statham movie ended up being a fun, stylish action film seemingly plucked right from the pages of a graphic novel. So, while I usually feel as if most good ideas don’t necessarily need a sequel, the rich universe of John Wick is more than deserving of a follow up.
Chapter 2 picks up moments after the conclusion of the first film. Retired assassin, John Wick (Keanu Reeves) has barely finished recovering his stolen car when he is recruited against his will by a former associate (Ricardo Scamarcio) and his mute right hand woman (Ruby Rose). Drawn to a blood oath, Wick must attempt a new mission that will put him in the crosshairs of an entire world of skilled assassins.
If you loved the first film, there is nothing to dislike about this second go round. From the cinematography to the soundtrack, Chapter 2 maintains the first film’s suave since of style. The action is bigger and better, filled with more fight choreography and some intense gun battles. Accentuating the action is a far greater sense of danger and suspense than what was experienced in the first film with the lead character being challenged early and often.
If there’s a flaw with Chapter 2, it’s in the more convoluted plot. But it’s hardly a bother. Sensational new characters like rival assassin Cassian (Common) and the sewer dwelling Bowery King (Laurence Fishburne) are just some of the many welcomed nuances that add even more depth and intrigue to this fascinating criminal world. Returning characters like Winston (Ian McShane), Aurelio (John Leguizamo), and Charon (Lance Reddick) make the film mold seamlessly with its predecessor so even though things are more complex than a man avenging his puppy, it never stops feeling like a continuation of the first film.
The characters and world created by writer Derek Kolstad and brought to life by Director Chad Stahelski deserve to be commended. Like the James Bond and Mission Impossible films, the world of John Wick has become a character just as fun and interesting as the lead itself. And with an invigorating and fitting ending, there’s no need for this franchise to quit anytime soon.
FINAL GRADE: A