John Wick: Chapter 2

This new movie takes things up a notch – it's more daring, more in-your-face, and even funnier than the first one. It's like the perfect action movie, with intense scenes, clever details, and a touch of sadness. And the main guy, Keanu Reeves, is simply amazing. Seriously, no need for any doubts – he's great in this.

So, John Wick isn't really into retirement. It seems like he's addicted to dishing out revenge in the coolest way possible. The story kicks off right after the first movie, with Wick still struggling after his wife's death. His only constant companion is an adorable unnamed pitbull, and don't worry, the dog stays safe throughout. Then, out of nowhere, Santino D’Antonio shows up, asking Wick to fulfill a promise he made years ago. Wick hesitates, but after his house goes boom, he has no choice. Accepting Santino’s offer doesn't bring Wick the peace he's looking for, though. Soon, he's dealing with threats from all angles, including Santino’s tough enforcer Ares, and a bodyguard named Cassian.

"John Wick: Chapter Two" kicks off with a mind-blowing opening sequence that feels like the best Batman scene ever made. Wick, the main character, has already avenged his dog, and now he's on a mission to recover his stolen car from the last film. The opening is packed with action, showing Wick effortlessly taking down bad guys while a Russian gangster's brother, Abram Tarasov, listens in horror. This scene sets the tone for the sequel's great mix of action and humor.

As the movie unfolds, it dives deeper into the intricate world of Wick, filled with assassins, blood oaths, and mysterious rules. The film excels at creating a rich world, surpassing even some long-standing comic franchises. There are cool details, like a group of tattooed individuals handling hits, and enjoyable moments watching Wick prepare for his missions with style and taste.

While the film expands Wick's world, it loses some of the sharp focus that made the original so captivating. Yet, the imperfections add charm and allow the story to explore entertaining avenues.

"John Wick: Chapter Two" is a playground for character actors. Returning and new cast members bring a sense of enjoyment to their roles. Ian McShane, Lance Reddick, and John Leguizamo shine, while Ruby Rose and Common show promising potential as action stars. Laurence Fishburne's addition as the Bowery King is a standout, bringing a commanding presence and a touch of eccentricity. His interactions with Keanu Reeves, their "Matrix" connection evident, add a unique flavor to the film. Despite Fishburne's brief appearance, his impact is substantial, especially through his powerful laughter, which becomes a memorable aspect of the movie.

The real gem in "John Wick: Chapter Two" is the action – it's like a visual feast for your eyes. The director, Chad Stahelski, and the cinematographer, Dan Laustsen, create a world that's so visually stunning, using colors you rarely see in action movies. Keanu Reeves, the main guy, is practically a work of art himself on screen, often standing alone in shades of turquoise, jade, and neon pink.

Even in the quieter moments where characters are just talking, there's an artistic touch and attention to detail that adds to the epic feel of the story. The sound effects during the fights, like the crunch of bones and splatter of blood, are done with real artistry. The fight scenes are a treat – never too edited, always giving us a clear view of Reeves' impressive training. The violence is intense, ranging from darkly funny to oddly poetic, and it's definitely bloodier than the first movie. Assassins get sliced, stabbed, and shot in all sorts of ways, and you won't be able to look away. Plus, there's this gruesome pencil trick that's even worse than you can imagine.

What sets the action apart is how it becomes a language in itself. The way characters fight tells a story without needing a lot of explanation. When Ares faces off with Wick, she's scrappy and wild, while Cassian is more straightforward and brutal. But Reeves brings a different kind of elegance to his violence. In the memorable fight scenes, it's like he's dancing with punches and gun moves, blending cool grace with raw power. Reeves isn't just physically talented; he also brings a theme of loneliness to the forefront. Wick's struggle to find peace in a lonely world adds a surprising depth to the movie. It leaves room for a third chapter, and after watching "John Wick: Chapter Two," I'm definitely hoping for it. The film captures what makes movies an art form – it amazes, challenges, and proves that Keanu Reeves is hands down the best action star of our time. And that's something to celebrate.