Ballerina

From the World of John Wick: Ballerina

A Lethal, High-Octane Spin-Off That Stays the Course

★★★☆☆

Audiences definitely get what they pay for: next-level action and inventive gun play.

The next chapter in the world of John Wick is an enjoyable, action-packed entry. While it doesn't break new ground, it follows the "if it's not broke" philosophy perfectly. The story is a simple tale of vengeance that capably pushes the action forward, anchored by a strong, lethal performance from Ana de Armas.

"The Baba Yaga takes a back seat here, but he makes a satisfying appearance. This film belongs to Ana de Armas."

— Review Perspective

🎬 Cast & Crew

• Director: Len Wiseman
• Starring: Ana de Armas (Eve Macarro), Keanu Reeves (John Wick), Ian McShane (Winston)
• Supporting: Norman Reedus, Gabriel Byrne, Lance Reddick (Charon)

The Vision

Director Len Wiseman maintains the franchise's signature "gun-fu" aesthetic and intricate fight choreography. Set between the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 and Chapter 4, the film focuses on the Ruska Roma traditions. While the plot is paper-thin, it serves as a sufficient scaffolding for the inventive set pieces that fans of the series expect.

🎬 Cinephile Fun Facts

• Directorial Assist: Chad Stahelski, director of the main Wick series, oversaw significant action reshoots to ensure the stunts matched the franchise's high standards.
• Timeline Placement: The film's events take place during John Wick's preparation for his war against the High Table in Chapter 4.
• Lance Reddick's Legacy: This marks one of the final screen appearances of Lance Reddick as the iconic concierge, Charon.

✅ Pros

• Ana de Armas capably carries the film as a lethal lead.
• Inventive fight choreography that remains fresh and exciting.
• Satisfying, charismatic appearance by Keanu Reeves.

❌ Cons

• Paper-thin story that doesn't tug at the heartstrings as much as the original.
• Very little for audiences who aren't specifically looking for action.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ballerina is a fun, if uncomplicated, ride. It delivers the violence and "Wick-level" stunts it promises, providing a refreshing female perspective to the franchise without losing the edge that made the original films famous.

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