Movie Review
From the World of John Wick: Ballerina
Running time: 125 minutes. Rated R (strong/bloody violence throughout, and language). In theaters.
**Even assassins get their own universe!**
A New Spin on an Old Tale
Welcome to the sprawling franchise of "John Wick," where revenge is just a dance away. “From the World of John Wick: Ballerina” introduces us to Eve, played by the talented Ana de Armas. Imagine a blend of ballet and bloodshed—a narrative that promises heart-stopping action but stumbles in other areas.
A Lackluster Origin Story
Meet Eve: The Killer Ballerina
Originally, the idea of a Killing Eve II might sound appealing. But "Ballerina" falls short with its recycled plot—a familiar tale of revenge that is less riveting than its predecessor. The film’s backdrop features Anjelica Huston, as Eve’s mentor. Yet her performance feels lackluster, similar to many aspects of the film.
The Highs: Action and Choreography
The action sequences in "Ballerina" are undeniably thrilling. Expect a gore fest featuring knives, hammers, and yes—grenades! The choreography is well-executed, making each fight scene a visual delight. You can practically see Eve’s dance background shine through as she pirouettes between enemies. If you’re looking for brutal thrills, this film delivers in buckets.
The Lows: A Weak Narrative
Plot Points That Fall Flat
Despite its exciting action, the narrative fails to engage. Eve’s quest for vengeance against her father’s killers is rife with clichés. The "X" scar on the wrist is an uninspired plot device—could this journey be any more predictable? The film meanders through nightclubs and poorly lit locales, reminiscent of early 2000s action series like "Alias".
An Ill-Suited Aesthetic
Much of the film tries to capture the grandeur of previous Wick films but instead delivers a visually uninspired experience. The exotic locations and unique architecture that characterized Keanu Reeves’ journey are replaced with a monotonous palette. The exception? A chilling snowy village in Austria that serves as the backdrop for a more compelling scene—an assassin-laden bloodbath reminiscent of Stepford Wives, if they were killers.
Performance Review
Ana de Armas: A Star in Need of a Role
While Ana de Armas showcases her physical prowess, her emotional depth feels lacking. As a character, Eve presents complex layers on the surface, but this depth is overshadowed by a vacant performance. Comparisons to Reeves highlight her shortcomings; while Wick embodies a storm lurking beneath a calm exterior, Eve’s demeanor comes off as unengaging.
Supporting Cast Underwhelms
The film boasts a plethora of talented actors, including Lance Reddick and Ian McShane, yet their performances remain uninspired. Even the brief appearance of Keanu Reeves does little to elevate the material, serving instead as a reminder of how far the "Wick" saga has fallen in this installment.
Conclusion: A Lack of Finesse
In the end, "Ballerina" tries to capitalize on the captivated audience that John Wick has built, but it ultimately falls flat. While the brutal fight scenes are commendable, they are not enough to redeem a convoluted narrative and mediocre performances. If you’ve come for captivating storytelling, you might want to look elsewhere. For those just after an adrenaline rush, though, this film might still provide some enjoyment.
For more insights on the evolving John Wick universe, check out articles on Film School Rejects or Collider.
