Ballerina Movie Review
Cast
Ana de Armas, Gabriel Byrne, Catalina Sandino Moreno, Norman Reedus, Anjelica Huston, Lance Reddick, Ian McShane, and Keanu Reeves.
Director
Len Wiseman
Rating
★★★★☆
In the exhilarating landscape of action cinema, **Len Wiseman’s Ballerina** emerges as a riveting entry that proves **Ana de Armas** is not just a fill-in for John Wick, but a **worthy successor** poised to carve out her own legacy. The moment Eve Macarro (de Armas) faces off against her mentor, **The Director** (Anjelica Huston), the stakes are set. “Fight like a girl,” Huston urges, signaling a crucial pivot in the film’s narrative. From that instant, it becomes clear that Ballerina won’t merely be a rehash of the Wick saga; it’s an immersive ride that aims to eclipse even its prequel. The film begins slowly but soon transforms into a whirlwind of **jaw-dropping action, breathtaking choreography**, and the stunning performance of de Armas.
Exploring the World of John Wick
Ballerina is set before the events of **John Wick Chapter 4**, intricately weaving a narrative that due to its origin storytelling of Eve Macarro—a character first introduced in John’s universe. Eve’s father, part of the enigmatic **Ruska Roma**, meets a gruesome fate at the hands of a nefarious organization. Thus, Eve is raised among assassins, driven by revenge against those who wronged her family. With the support of **Winston Scott** (Ian McShane), the mysterious owner of the New York **Continental Hotel**, she embarks on a perilous journey of vengeance. However, **time** and the looming shadow of John Wick may not be in her favor.
Ballerina’s Redemption Arc
Ballerina is more than mere homage; it quickly sheds any notion of being a simple spin-off. Under **Len Wiseman’s** adept direction, the film transforms into a non-stop extravaganza where Eve navigates lethal encounters with **creativity and grace**. The film’s brilliance lies not just in its visceral action but in showcasing Eve’s distinct fighting style—a graceful blend of agility and finesse that embodies her ballet training.
The film’s standout moments unfold in breathtaking **action set pieces**, particularly a frenetic sequence in Prague, where Eve employs a colorful array of weaponry, leaving her mark. The choreography is both visceral and **aesthetically stunning**, echoing cinematic masterpieces like **Kill Bill**. Yet, it’s the climactic showdown where Eve wields a flamethrower—a nod to Ripley from **Aliens**—that solidifies her as an **unstoppable force**, beautifully encapsulating the film’s spirit.
Ballerina deftly incorporates memorable cameos, featuring Ian McShane and Anjelica Huston, who don’t overshadow our heroine but instead reinforce the rich tapestry of Eve’s story. Even **Lance Reddick** makes a poignant appearance in his final role, further enriching this universe while ensuring Eve remains firmly in the spotlight.
Finally, the film navigates the essential inclusion of **Keanu Reeves** effectively. Rather than overshadowing the narrative, he delivers a brief yet impactful scene that solidifies John Wick’s character without detracting from Eve’s journey. It’s a masterstroke of storytelling, allowing the film to balance nostalgia with a fresh perspective.
Conclusion: A Stunning Addition to the Franchise
Ballerina stands tall as an **action-packed thriller**, elevating the bar set by **John Wick**. While the performances may not be groundbreaking, the artful choreography and relentless pace make up for it. Ana de Armas silences any doubters, proving that women can not only participate in but lead high-octane action franchises. As the credits roll, one can’t help but hope for more from this captivating world. For avid action enthusiasts, **Ballerina** is a must-see, renewing faith in the genre with its ambitious storytelling and fierce lead.
