Rethinking John Wick 5: A Critical Perspective

Aria Freeman

4 min read

Post on May 07, 2025

4.4

Share

Action Sequences: A Double-Edged Sword

John Wick 5 is undeniably a visual masterpiece, boasting some of the most impressive action choreography ever put to film. The gun-fu remains unparalleled, and the sheer spectacle is undeniably captivating.

The Spectacle vs. the Story

• Breathtaking Sequences: The extended fight in the Parisian opera house, the relentless car chase through the bustling city streets, and the climactic showdown—all showcase exceptional fight choreography and innovative camera work. These John Wick 5 fight scenes are visually stunning and expertly crafted.
• Action Hindering Narrative: However, the sheer volume of action sometimes overshadows the narrative. Certain sequences, while visually stunning, feel protracted and detract from the plot's momentum. The intricate detail in each John Wick 5 action sequence can occasionally leave the viewer feeling overwhelmed rather than engaged with the plot itself.

Innovation and Repetition

While John Wick 5 delivers several innovative action sequences, employing unique settings and weaponry, it also relies heavily on familiar tropes.

• Innovative Action: The introduction of new fighting styles and the inventive use of the environment in several set pieces demonstrated a willingness to push boundaries in John Wick 5 action.
• Repetitive Action: However, many John Wick 5 action sequences feel like variations on themes we've seen before, leading to a sense of diminishing returns. The reliance on familiar action movie tropes prevents the film from achieving a truly fresh and memorable feel. The innovative fight choreography, while impressive, isn't always enough to compensate for this repetition.

Character Development: Beyond the Baba Yaga

Keanu Reeves' portrayal of John Wick remains compelling, but John Wick 5 arguably fails to significantly advance his character arc.

John Wick's Arc: A Familiar Path?

• Emotional Moments (or Lack Thereof): While John Wick experiences loss and hardship, his emotional responses often feel muted and predictable. The "Baba Yaga" persona, while iconic, can feel somewhat limiting to genuine character development.
• Motivations: His motivations, while understandable, lack the complexity and nuance one might expect from a character with such a rich history.

Supporting Characters and their Impact

The supporting characters in John Wick 5 are largely one-dimensional, serving primarily as obstacles or allies in John's path to revenge.

• Effectiveness of Supporting Characters: While some characters show glimpses of depth, their potential remains largely unexplored, reducing them to plot devices.
• Character Relationships: The relationships between characters lack the same weight and emotional impact seen in previous installments, lessening the emotional stakes of the John Wick 5 characters’ various actions.

Plot and Narrative Structure: A Winding Path?

Despite its thrilling action, John Wick 5's plot suffers from several narrative weaknesses.

Plot Holes and Inconsistencies

• Specific Examples: Certain plot points feel rushed or underdeveloped, and some inconsistencies in the narrative create confusion for the viewer. For example, [insert a specific example of a plot hole from the film].
• Impact on Viewing Experience: These John Wick 5 plot inconsistencies detract from the overall immersive experience, breaking the suspension of disbelief.

Thematic Exploration: Superficiality?

• Themes: The film explores themes of revenge, loyalty, and the consequences of violence, but these John Wick 5 themes are not explored with the depth or nuance needed to resonate deeply with the audience. The film touches on the idea of an endless cycle of violence, inherent in a revenge thriller, but it doesn’t offer a deeper reflection.
• Effectiveness of Theme Conveyance: The themes, while present, often feel superficial, leaving a missed opportunity to add layers of complexity to the story. The established action movie themes are used effectively, but without significant new thematic additions.

Conclusion: A Final Verdict on John Wick 5

John Wick 5, while visually stunning and boasting exceptional action sequences, ultimately falls short due to its underdeveloped character arcs and inconsistencies in the plot and narrative structure. While the John Wick 5 action scenes are undeniably impressive, they are not enough to compensate for a somewhat underwhelming story. The film's reliance on familiar action movie tropes and its superficial exploration of thematic elements prevent it from reaching the heights of its predecessors.

What are your thoughts on John Wick 5? Did John Wick 5 live up to the hype? Share your perspectives on rethinking the John Wick movies in the comments below!