Keanu Reeves is back with a vengeance, literally, in John Wick. Photo/IndieWire
[dropcap]K[/dropcap]eanu Reeves is thinking he is back in John Wick, and if you thought Liam Neeson or Denzel were the only ones who could go on a rampage of revenge, you’re mistaken — but not regrettably.
Reeves plays the title character, a former contract killer for the mob who hung it up to be with the woman he loves (Bridget Moynahan). When she passes away from cancer, all he wants is to grieve in peace with his new puppy (in all seriousness); but, when he rebuffs an offer to purchase his car by a Russian mafioso’s son (Alfie Allen), mobsters track him, steal the ride, and kill his pet.
He lost his girl, his dog, and his old life won’t leave him alone, which means all bets are off (dude…whoa)!
To say Reeves is back would be a misnomer: a veteran of pulse-pounding action since Point Break and Speed, the truth is he never left. Keanu returns to a role he practically popularized, a sharp dresser (take a look at his career; he can’t seem to do without a nice suit) with a dark side and a set of special skills (apologies, Mr. Neeson).
John Wick has a ride to kill for. Photo/TheBayNet
You could label him typecast, but he hasn’t lost steam yet, and neither has the modern form noir has taken. With its neon pastels and high contrast lighting coupled with themes of vigilante justice, John Wick plays like a cross between Death Wish and Grand Theft Auto.
Elements of Westerns and Samurai pictures are also present, such as settling a score that turns into a blood feud, pitting old friends against one another. However, the fight choreography is less fancy, more down-and-dirty, and the cinematography is more controlled — unlike the bombastic Kung Fu flourishes and optical effects of The Matrix.
Directors and accomplished stuntmen, David Leitch and Chad Stahelski (300, Fight Club), bring an eclectic wealth of experience to the table, including with Reeves (Matrix, Constantine).
Michael Nyqvist, of Dragon Tattoo fame, really puts his talent on display as head of the Russian mafia in a way he couldn’t as a mute nondescript bad guy in M:I Ghost Protocol.
John Wick is a great character, sympathetic despite the unwavering brutality of his mission. The cast and direction are also strong. Playing now, it is well worth your time.
Look for wrestler Kevin Nash in a fun cameo as a bouncer.
