John Wick Chapter 2 is the sequel to the Keanu Reeves action flick from 2014 that had, how shall we say, an amusing economy of plot. In that flick, gangsters break into John Wick’s house, kill his dog and steal his car so he responds in the way any wronged retired hit-man would: he kills them all. The first flick knew what it was and it was filmed with some amazing stunt choreography and long takes so you could see the action go down. Happily, Chapter 2 follows suit.
Chapter 2 has a bit more story structure than Chapter 1 though that isn’t saying much itself. I won’t go into the plot – but just know that John Wick is not done being a retired hit-man gone back for more. Why he goes on this rampage is best left to the viewer since the trailers doesn’t ruin it.
I will say this movie has just as well-crafted, hyperbolic, and well-filmed action flick as the first. They haven’t lost a thing in the process – Keanu once again throws every ounce of himself into the stunt work and the director knows to keep filming and not cut the action into tiny bits. It’s slick, it’s glossy, and it’s actually funnier than the first though without ever pausing to wink at the audience.
If I have any complaints, it’s that the first major action set piece (after the cold opening) is played out in a dark underground space and feels like maybe they had lost their touch. But later scenes are shot in brightly lit rooms and we can see every bit of action. Also, I guess it takes awhile to end because it’s setting itself up for a sequel. A sequel, I should note, I’m looking forward to so I forgive their attempts at setting up a franchise.
Overall, I’m surprised to say that I thought this was a better movie than the first. The first flick had the edge in that it was surprising… but i think this flick has more pauses for reflection in between some amazing – even better – action scenes. It improves its world-building and I think its supporting cast is even better.
If you at all liked John Wick or just like a great action film that takes itself seriously without being ponderous or pretentious, this is a great film. See the first one though – you wouldn’t want to miss out on all the deep plot points. You might not be able to follow along now.
Score: 86