Ballerina promises to captivate its audience with pulse-pounding action and a gripping revenge narrative, yet it finds itself in the shadow of the iconic John Wick franchise. Originally penned as a stand-alone screenplay by Shay Hattan, it morphed into a film entangled with Wick’s universe, making it a challenging endeavor for filmmakers. While it boasts impressive elements, expectations soar high, inevitably leading to a frustrating experience for viewers familiar with the franchise. Ballerina—officially titled From the World of John Wick: Ballerina—delivers an experience that oscillates between a familiar formula and an entirely new vein of storytelling.
Behind the Scenes: A Struggle for Identity
Rumor has it that the finished product bears little resemblance to Len Wiseman’s original cut. Supposedly, after a first viewing, John Wick producer Chad Stahelski intervened, conducting extensive reshoots to enhance the action sequences and further intertwine the narratives. However, the tonal inconsistencies are palpable throughout the film, often undermining the performance of Ana de Armas, who portrays Eve Macarro. Despite her exceptional talent, Eve seems trapped in an overbearing shadow cast by the beloved Wick character, limiting her ability to shine independently.
A Journey of Revenge
Eve’s story begins with a harrowing backstory: as a child, she witnesses her father’s murder at the hands of a sinister Chancellor, wonderfully portrayed by Gabriel Byrne. Years later, she emerges from a punishing training regimen as an assassin under The Director, played by Anjelica Huston. However, when Eve harbors the desire to avenge her father’s death, she faces a brutal reality: an underworld pact forbids her from attacking the Chancellor. What follows is a rogue mission filled with pulsating action and emotional turmoil.
The Action: A Mixed Bag
Despite the film’s promise of relentless action, only a handful of scenes truly resonate, particularly due to the film’s dour tone. The opening portions lack the adrenaline that fans of the Wick franchise expect, leaving viewers yearning for the vibrant chaos characteristic of John Wick 3 and John Wick 4. However, as the runtime progresses, the second half picks up, inching closer to the exhilarating heights fans envisioned.
Performance Highlights: A Double-Edged Sword
This film is a showcase for Ana de Armas, yet she often appears overshadowed. While her physicality is undeniable, many fans will find themselves reminiscing about the charisma Keanu Reeves brought to his role. Through the lens of audience expectation, Eve appears as a force of nature—a character thriving on potential rather than depth.
Contextual Challenges
Set between John Wick 3 and John Wick 4, the film contorts itself to fit into a pre-existing narrative ecosystem, yet ultimately, the integration feels clumsy. For a superior female-led action film experience, one might be inclined to revisit Atomic Blonde, a film hailed for its cohesive energy and dynamic action sequences. In stark contrast, Ballerina wrestles to establish its own identity amid a rich and established universe.
Conclusion: A Testament to Potential
In summary, while Ballerina exhibits flashes of brilliance, it struggles to find its footing within the grand tapestry of the John Wick universe. A compelling narrative woven together by themes of vengeance and self-discovery lies beneath the surface, but execution proves to falter. As much as the film strives to deliver a thrilling experience, the sense of disappointment lingers when compared to the frenetic energy of its predecessors. For those who cherish exciting narratives and deft action choreography, the film offers a modest yet engaging addition to the action genre that ultimately leaves one wishing for more.
Ballerina (United States, 2025)
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