John Wick 5: Forget The High Table, A More Grounded Mission

Aria Freeman

6 min read

Post on May 12, 2025

4.7

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The Limitations of the High Table

The High Table, while initially intriguing, has become increasingly fantastical in its portrayal, potentially alienating viewers seeking a more realistic action experience. This shift towards the supernatural has inadvertently created several limitations for the franchise.

Over-the-Top Supernatural Elements

The franchise's increasing reliance on magic and supernatural elements has diluted the core appeal of the John Wick saga.

• Over-reliance on magic and supernatural elements: The introduction of seemingly limitless resources and abilities for the antagonists diminishes the stakes of John's fights and reduces the sense of realism.
• Diminished stakes: When the stakes are unrealistically high, the audience's emotional investment can suffer. A more grounded approach allows for more tangible consequences and higher emotional engagement.
• Less relatable antagonists: Supernatural abilities make antagonists less relatable and less human, hindering audience connection and reducing the impact of their actions.
• Diluted focus on John Wick's core motivations: The complex web of the High Table sometimes overshadows John's personal motivations, his core reason for fighting, and his connection to the audience.

Complex Plotlines

The intricate web of assassins, rules, and organizations surrounding the High Table has resulted in increasingly complex plotlines that can be challenging to follow.

• Loss of clarity: The convoluted nature of the High Table's operations can detract from the overall narrative, leading to confusion among viewers.
• Difficulty in connecting with the characters: Overly complex plots can make it hard for audiences to connect with the characters on an emotional level. The focus shifts from character development to plot intricacies.
• Slow pacing: The need to explain the complexities of the High Table's inner workings can lead to a slower pace, potentially losing the audience's attention.
• Potential for audience confusion: The sheer number of characters, rules, and locations can be overwhelming, hindering audience enjoyment and comprehension.

The Appeal of a Grounded Mission

A more grounded approach, focusing on a personal and realistic mission for John Wick, offers several significant advantages for John Wick 5.

Focus on Personal Revenge

A less globally-scaled revenge plot, focusing on a more personal conflict, could deepen the emotional connection between John Wick and the audience.

• Increased emotional stakes: A personal vendetta resonates more deeply with viewers, leading to greater emotional investment in the narrative.
• More relatable antagonist: A grounded antagonist, driven by personal motives rather than supernatural power, is more relatable and engaging.
• Opportunity for character growth: Focusing on personal relationships and revenge allows for more significant character development and emotional depth for John Wick.
• More impactful action sequences: When the fight is personal, the stakes are higher, making the action sequences more impactful and emotionally charged.

Realistic Threats and Stakes

Shifting the focus to tangible threats and enemies would provide a more relatable and intense viewing experience, bringing back the raw thrill of the original.

• More grounded action sequences: The action becomes more believable and impactful, relying less on fantastical elements and more on realistic fight choreography.
• Emphasis on practical skill and strategy: John Wick's legendary skills would be showcased without relying on supernatural enhancements, highlighting his mastery of combat.
• Increased tension and suspense: The more realistic the threats, the higher the tension and suspense, leading to a more gripping viewing experience.
• Stronger narrative cohesion: A focused narrative with tangible threats would streamline the plot and create a more cohesive story that's easier to follow.

Exploration of John Wick's Past

Delving deeper into John's past and motivations could provide a richer, more emotional storyline, significantly enhancing audience engagement.

• Flashbacks showcasing origins: Showcasing John's early life and training could provide valuable context and deepen our understanding of his character.
• Exploration of key relationships: Exploring his relationships with past allies and enemies can add layers of complexity and emotional depth to the narrative.
• Uncovering hidden secrets: Unraveling previously unknown secrets from John's past can add intrigue and suspense to the storyline.
• Development of character depth: Focusing on his past motivations and struggles humanizes John, making him more relatable and sympathetic to the audience.

Maintaining the Franchise's Core Identity

A grounded approach doesn't necessitate abandoning the stylish action sequences and unique visual flair that define the John Wick franchise.

Balancing Realism with Style

The filmmakers can maintain the franchise’s unique style while grounding the narrative.

• Emphasis on practical fight choreography: The film can retain its incredible action scenes by focusing on the impressive practical skills of the actors and stunt performers.
• Use of creative camera angles and editing: The signature stylistic camerawork and editing techniques can be maintained, enhancing the visual appeal.
• Maintaining the iconic gun-fu style: The series' iconic gun-fu style, known for its elegance and precision, can still be a central part of the action.
• Incorporating innovative action set pieces: While grounding the narrative, the filmmakers can incorporate new and creative action sequences, pushing the boundaries of practical fight choreography.

Building on Existing Relationships

Maintaining and developing existing relationships with key characters—like Winston and Charon—can provide emotional anchors to a more grounded narrative.

• Further development of Winston and Charon: Exploring their evolving relationship with John can provide emotional weight and depth to the narrative.
• Introduction of new compelling characters: New characters can be introduced, adding layers of complexity and intrigue to the story, while still maintaining a grounded approach.
• Exploring existing relationships with past enemies: Reintroducing previous adversaries can provide satisfying conclusions to existing storylines and create opportunities for complex character interactions.
• Providing a satisfying resolution to current storylines: A grounded approach allows for more fulfilling and emotionally resonant resolutions to existing plotlines.

Conclusion

John Wick 5 presents a crucial opportunity to revitalize the franchise by shifting away from the increasingly convoluted High Table storyline and towards a more grounded, personal mission for John. By focusing on realistic threats, personal revenge, and exploring John's past, the filmmakers can create a more emotionally resonant and compelling narrative. This shift would enhance audience engagement while maintaining the series' iconic style and action. Don't miss the potential of a more grounded John Wick – let's see a more personal and impactful chapter in the franchise. Demand a more realistic and emotionally driven John Wick 5!