Sowas Habt Ihr Noch Nicht Gesehen! - John Wick 4 Filmkritik

The Unlikely Rise of John Wick: A Tale of Stolen Cars and Vengeance

So, a decade ago, did anyone really anticipate that a seemingly straightforward story about a guy getting his car stolen and his dog killed would evolve into the epic saga that is John Wick? I must confess, back in those early days, I couldn't have predicted it. Yet, here we are, on the brink of the fourth chapter, and the anticipation is palpable. Three years after the exhilarating third installment, I can confidently say that my excitement for this fourth outing has not waned. But did the film deliver on the promise of thrill and innovation? Let's dive into the intricate web of perplexity, burstiness, and unpredictability that is John Wick 4.

The Good, the Bad, and the Bewildering

The Good: Action Extravaganza with a Twist

John Wick has always stood out in the action genre, and the fourth installment is no exception. The film still manages to deliver heart-pounding action sequences that leave you breathless. From horses and dogs to knives and motorcycles, the creativity in combat is a true delight. However, this time, the filmmakers up the ante with a jaw-dropping scene shot from above involving a shotgun—a cinematic masterpiece that will have your jaw on the floor.

The Bad: The Burden of Plot Overload

Yet, like any great saga, John Wick is not without its flaws. One of the persistent issues, especially in the third film, was the expanding narrative that sometimes felt overwhelming. Unfortunately, this trend continues into the fourth chapter. The first 40 minutes are surprisingly devoid of the relentless action we've come to expect, replaced by characters engaging in lengthy conversations that, at times, border on the cliché. Keanu Reeves, while undeniably charismatic, struggles to carry the weight of emotional moments, reducing his character to a somewhat predictable archetype.

The Bewildering: The Bulletproof Fashion Show

One of the most peculiar developments in the John Wick universe has been the introduction of bulletproof suits. While initially a cool and unique concept, it has now taken on a somewhat comic-book quality. The film's first action sequence in Tokyo, where characters endlessly shoot at each other, becomes a bizarre dance of bullets bouncing off impervious jackets. It's a spectacle that, while entertaining, feels like a deviation from the gritty and intense action the franchise is known for.

A Saga in Flux: Where Does John Wick Stand?

The Evolution of Wick: A Character Unraveled

As the narrative has evolved over the films, so too has the character of John Wick. From a determined avenger in the first film to a more complex figure navigating a web of honor and obligation in the third, the fourth installment takes him on a new trajectory. Here, Wick seems almost indifferent, unaware of the collateral damage caused by his personal crusade. It's a departure from the character we once knew, and while it adds an intriguing layer, it also raises questions about the coherence of his journey.

The Supporting Cast: A Mixed Bag

The introduction of new characters, such as the formidable villain played by Bill Skarsgård, adds depth to the narrative. Skarsgård's portrayal injects a sense of genuine threat, a welcome departure from some lackluster antagonists in previous films. However, not all new additions hit the mark. The Tracker, for instance, feels somewhat superfluous, contributing to the film's unnecessarily extended runtime without significantly enhancing the main plot.

Parting Shots: The Legacy of Wick and What Lies Ahead

As the curtain falls on John Wick 4, it's hard not to reflect on the impact of this action-packed saga. Despite its flaws and deviations, the film manages to redeem itself with spectacular action sequences that push the boundaries of what we thought possible. Keanu Reeves, even at 58, proves he's still a force to be reckoned with in the action genre.

The future of the John Wick franchise remains uncertain, with spin-offs on the horizon. Whether it's the final chapter or a stepping stone to new adventures, John Wick 4 undeniably leaves its mark. It's a testament to the filmmakers' commitment to revitalizing action cinema, even if it means navigating through narrative hiccups and eccentric fashion choices.

In the end, John Wick 4 is more than a movie; it's an experience—a rollercoaster of emotions, perplexity, burstiness, and unpredictability. As we bid adieu to this chapter of Wick's journey, one can't help but wonder what other cinematic realms Keanu Reeves and the visionary team behind John Wick will conquer next. Until then, let the legacy of John Wick echo in the corridors of action cinema, reminding us that sometimes, the best way to predict the future is to create it.