John Wick 4: Lowest Rotten Tomatoes Score, But Still The Best?

Aria Freeman

6 min read

Post on May 07, 2025

4.8

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Rotten Tomatoes Score Deconstructed: Understanding the Lower Rating

John Wick: Chapter 4 currently holds a 90% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, but a lower-than-expected critics' score of 94%, compared to the near-perfect scores of its predecessors. While still a positive score, this drop has sparked considerable discussion. Why the seemingly lower critical appraisal for a film many consider the pinnacle of the franchise?

Several factors likely contribute to this discrepancy:

• Higher expectations: The previous John Wick films set a remarkably high bar for action cinema. Following such successes, exceeding expectations becomes an even more challenging feat. Any perceived misstep, however small, is magnified.
• Differences in critical opinion: While the impressive action sequences were universally praised, some critics found fault with aspects of the plot or pacing. The sheer volume of action, while appreciated by many, might have been seen by others as excessive or detracting from narrative depth.
• Comparison to contemporary action films: The film’s release coincided with other high-profile action movies, leading to inevitable comparisons and potentially influencing critical assessments. Competition in the genre can influence how individual films are perceived.
• Potential critical biases: Subjective biases in critical reviews are unavoidable. Some critics may have pre-conceived notions or personal preferences that influence their ratings, independent of the film's objective merits.

Critics who offered less enthusiastic reviews often pointed to the film's length and sometimes repetitive action sequences as weaknesses. Some argued the plot, while functional, lacked the surprising twists and turns of earlier installments. However, these criticisms were frequently countered by the overwhelmingly positive audience response. IMDb and Metacritic scores show significantly higher audience appreciation, suggesting a clear divergence between critical consensus and public opinion.

The Unmatched Action and Stunts of John Wick 4

John Wick: Chapter 4 is a masterclass in action filmmaking. The film's innovative and visually stunning action sequences are its undeniable highlight. The practical effects and intricate choreography elevate the fight scenes to a breathtaking level, exceeding even the already impressive standards set by previous films. The sheer scale and intricacy of the action is unparalleled in the franchise.

Key elements contributing to this cinematic achievement include:

• Unparalleled Gun-Fu: The film takes the iconic gun-fu style to new heights, showcasing breathtakingly creative and brutal gun fights.
• Exquisite Action Choreography: Every fight is meticulously planned and executed, resulting in a seamless and visually stunning display of combat.
• Dominant Practical Effects: The reliance on practical effects over CGI creates a visceral and realistic feel, amplifying the impact of each blow and gunshot.
• Extended Action Sequences: The longer runtime allows for extended and complex action sequences that unfold with impressive scope and detail. The film excels at sustained, high-octane action without sacrificing quality.

Consider the extended fight in the Arc de Triomphe, the intricate choreography of the motorbike chase, or the brutal, close-quarters combat in the club – each scene is a testament to the film’s commitment to practical, expertly choreographed action. The extended fight sequences, while potentially a source of criticism for some, for many viewers, contributed greatly to the film's overall enjoyment. Compared to previous installments, John Wick 4 delivers a larger, more ambitious, and more visually impressive action spectacle.

Beyond the Action: Character Development and Narrative

While the action is undeniably spectacular, John Wick: Chapter 4 also showcases significant character development. John Wick's journey in this installment delves deeper into his past, motivations, and emotional complexities, providing compelling emotional depth alongside the impressive physicality.

The supporting characters also play crucial roles in driving the narrative forward, each with their own arcs and motivations. The relationships between John Wick and these characters are fully explored, adding emotional weight to the action sequences.

• Themes of Revenge, Loyalty, and Redemption: The film masterfully weaves themes of revenge, loyalty, and redemption into the narrative, adding depth and complexity.
• Enhanced Emotional Depth: The film offers a more emotionally resonant experience compared to some of its predecessors, successfully balancing action with character development.
• Narrative Strengths and Weaknesses: While the overarching narrative is straightforward, focusing primarily on revenge, the film's strength lies in the intricate details and character interactions that enrich this simple premise.

Some might argue the narrative is simpler than previous entries, but this streamlined focus allows for a greater emphasis on the core emotional conflicts and character relationships, adding depth that enhances the viewing experience.

The Verdict: Critical Consensus vs. Audience Appreciation

The discrepancy between critical and audience scores highlights the subjective nature of film criticism and the influence of personal preferences. Critics, potentially focusing on minor narrative flaws or stylistic choices, may have overlooked the film's overall impact and the excellence of its action sequences.

• Role of Personal Preference: Individual preferences for plot structure, pacing, and action styles significantly influence viewer reactions, leading to diverse opinions.
• Impact of Expectations: The high expectations set by previous films undoubtedly played a role in shaping critical responses.
• Accuracy of the Rotten Tomatoes Score: The lower Rotten Tomatoes score, while noteworthy, doesn't fully represent the film's impact or the overwhelmingly positive audience response.

Ultimately, the lower Rotten Tomatoes score for John Wick: Chapter 4 doesn't diminish its cinematic achievements. The film’s exceptional action, compelling character development, and engaging narrative make a strong case for it being a highlight of the franchise, at least for a considerable portion of its audience.

Conclusion

John Wick: Chapter 4, despite a slightly lower Rotten Tomatoes score compared to its predecessors, delivers a breathtaking spectacle of action, bolstered by compelling character development and thematic depth. While some critics found minor flaws in the narrative or pacing, the overwhelmingly positive audience response highlights the film’s undeniable strengths. The sheer scale and execution of the action sequences, coupled with the enhanced character development, solidifies John Wick 4 as a significant entry in the franchise, potentially even the best for many viewers.

Have you seen John Wick: Chapter 4? What are your thoughts? Share your opinions on whether the lower Rotten Tomatoes score accurately reflects the quality of John Wick 4 in the comments below! Let's discuss whether John Wick 4 truly deserves its place as the best John Wick movie!