Director: Chad Stahenski
By Alex Watson
Even the Oracle from the Matrix couldn't have predicted the success of John Wick. In his second outing, John Wick: Chapter 2 just proves what a great fit this character is for star Keanu Reeves! Back once more on badass form, you just have to sit back and enjoy. The story might not be as strong the prior outing but when the body counting wracks up so nicely- who the hell cares?
John Wick (Keanu Reeves) is attempting to enjoy his retirement from the killing business. Unfortunately, he is coerced into honouring a hit by crime boss Santino D'Antonio (Riccardo Scamarcio). Arriving in Rome, Wick will soon prove he is not a man to be trifled with. In doing so he puts himself under the watchful eye of the world's most dangerous assassins.
John Wick: Chapter 2 is a movie that is all about proving what a danger the title character is. In a thrilling opening sequence, we see Wick taking names while barely breaking a sweat. The offer from D'Antonio is what triggers ending his second retirement- no better way to get a man's attention than blowing up his house! Rather sticking to the tried and tested formula, director Stahenski decides to channel the movie's fun aspect. Many feared this movie would just try to follow the original, refreshingly its director is aware and rises above it. Centrally the story of travelling to Rome and becoming involved with old acquaintances would have made us switch off instantly. The set pieces are the element that keeps us on the edge our of seats. Especially during one fun battle with rival Cassian (Common) set underneath the Rome catacombs.
DP Dan Laustsen emerges the movie's top dog as his beautiful cinematography shines brightly. While part one was an ice cold tale of revenge, part two has more of a human feel to it. Wick is weary from his past and being dragged into performing the same old tasks weighs heavily on his conscience. Some familiar faces rear their heads such as Continental Hotel owner Winston (Ian McShane) and some newer more interesting people like Ruby Rose's mute assassin. Perhaps the strongest aspect to this sequel comes from the danger lurking all around. Wick is more on guard than ever before, especially since each person he passes on the street could be a threat. Stahenski along with writer Derek Kolstad keep us guessing about how he will survive?
As a villain, D'Antonio lacks any real threat but still, he finds ways to keep Wick on the run. Matrix fans will have a field day as Laurence Fishburne emerges in Act 3 as fellow crime lord The Bowery King. John Wick: Chapter 2 isn't a build up to this moment and the reunion is impressively low-key. As finale's go, this movie gives an absorbing experience. Not since Enter The Dragon has been a game of mirrors been so thrilling. Thanks to the work of Laustsen, Wick's hunt is like taking a direct route into a brightly lit hell. It's the closing moments that will leave you praying for a Chapter 3. In a few moment's the movie's adrenaline and tension comes full circle and will leave you walking home with your arms shaking in anticipation.
There is no question that this franchise is the one Keanu Reeves was born to star. John Wick is a character that allows him to channel his strengths onscreen. People may have sneered at his previous attempt to prove his serious actor chops- but no-one can deny his action star credibility. Playing this cold-blooded killer is not just a career high for Reeves, it's the ticket of a lifetime. You can tell this guy is having a ball currently and this one character we yearn to come back soon. Wick might not be much of a talker- but his killing speaks volumes.
John Wick: Chapter 2 is another dosage is good cinematic fun. Even Neo would have trouble going hand to hand with this guy!
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