John Wick: Chapter 1

In the movie, a tough Russian mobster notices that John Wick, the seasoned hitman, still looks and handles things like his old self. Keanu Reeves, too, hasn't aged a bit and effortlessly slides back into his action-star role at the age of 50. While he hasn't been away for too long, this return does remind us of Liam Neeson's comeback in films like "Taken."

Despite the years, Keanu remains quintessentially himself. He exudes a calm demeanor that makes him both mysterious and captivating, especially amidst chaos. His face retains a youthful charm, but it conceals the wisdom that comes with age. Keanu is smart, but he doesn't feel the need to prove it on screen; he simply is who he is.

John Wick is a character tailor-made for Reeves, allowing him to be effortlessly confident and deliver witty one-liners with a cool precision reminiscent of his earlier roles like Ted "Theodore" Logan and Johnny Utah. But when action calls in "John Wick," he responds with a graceful yet powerful physicality.

The story kicks off with the death of Wick's wife, whose love led him to retire from his life as a top assassin. The tranquility of his modern mansion is shattered when Russian thugs show up in the middle of the night, not only stealing his prized 1969 Mustang but also killing his dog. The latter act is not just brutal; it's heartbreaking, especially considering that the puppy, Daisy, was a posthumous gift from his dying wife, who knew he'd need someone else to love.

Moynahan's character is barely more than an image in a smartphone video, lying in a hospital bed due to an unspecified illness. Although she's not fully developed as a person, her loss leaves Wick with a lingering sadness that influences every decision he makes.

Wick quickly retrieves his hidden weapons stash and seeks revenge when he discovers that the group responsible for his wife's death is led by Iosef, a reckless young man and the son of Wick's former associate, mob boss Viggo Tarasov. Viggo is well aware of Wick's lethal abilities. Willem Dafoe also enters the picture as an expert sniper, adding an element of uncertainty about whose side he's on. The storyline, penned by Derek Kolstad, establishes a straightforward premise, leading to numerous scenes of Wick effortlessly eliminating anyone foolish enough to cross his path.

Directors Chad Stahelski and David Leitch, both seasoned stuntmen, bring unique expertise to the film. Stahelski, known for his stunt work in "The Matrix" trilogy, and Leitch, who doubled for actors like Brad Pitt and Matt Damon, infuse the movie with a level of confidence uncommon in first-time directors. They wisely allow the intricate action choreography to shine, avoiding the shaky-cam and rapid edits that have become standard in recent films.

Apart from the impressive brutality, the directors exhibit an eye for artistry, with cinematographer Jonathan Sela creating a visually striking atmosphere. Early scenes are intentionally desaturated, almost black and white, capturing the somber mood surrounding Wick's wife's funeral and his return to the criminal underworld. As Wick immerses himself in this world, vibrant colors come to life, such as the deep green of a secret bar or the rich red of a Russian antagonist's shirt under a finely tailored suit.

While the number of people getting knocked off in "John Wick" may become a bit much and predictable, what makes the movie stand out is the visually stunning and intricately detailed world it showcases. Even though it's set in present-day New York City, Wick, and his fellow assassins create their own unique version of the city with its own quirky set of rules that almost feel old-fashioned. They use gold coins, like pirate doubloons, as their currency, whether it's for buying stuff or showing gratitude. Their go-to spot is a fancy downtown hotel and bar named The Continental, where the manager, played by Lance Reddick from "The Wire," maintains an air of politeness. It's like a safe haven where the unspoken rule is to keep the peace, and any act of violence gets you kicked out. This formality adds a humorous and refreshing touch to the constant chaos happening elsewhere in the movie.