Intense, fast-paced action movie that does not take itself too seriously

Rating: 10/10 (23 October 2014)

The key to truly appreciating John Wick lies in knowing what you're getting yourself into when you go to see this movie. I was quite impressed by the group that attended the same screening as I did - everywhere I turned I could hear the same variation of "oh it's a movie about a guy whose dog gets killed and then he goes to take revenge by killing a lot of people." Sounds ludicrous I know. That's kind of the whole point though.
John Wick is not a story-driven movie. It is, however, a fun and funny, action-driven cinematic ride. I knew exactly what kind of film I was going to see and I got that and so much more. John Wick is a badass (who also happens to have an impeccable sense of style), does not really say much (part of what makes him such a badass) but knows quite a few ways to get rid of the people he decides to get rid of.
Guns, snipers, knives, things that go boom, fancy cars, a storm of violence interspersed with a few (intentional) laughter inducing moments. It's a movie that does not take itself seriously and does not expect its audience to either. It just gives you pure, unadulterated entertainment. Impressive supportive cast - it took me a while to recognize Michael Nyqvist (a Swedish actor) in a role of a Russian mobster. The parts of the dialogue that are in Russian are translated in an almost cartoonishly stylized manner that makes those scenes resemble a comic book more than a movie (I was half expecting to see text bubbles appearing).
It's a phenomenal B-movie that introduces an interesting view of the criminal underworld - juxtaposing classy and crude, unwritten rules in a manner of "honor among criminals" I'd say. It is a "testosterone in overdrive" type of movie but one that I believe will appeal to women as well. (if for no other reason than because John Wick is so incredibly cool) I know I'm grateful that I got to see it on a big screen - I think it's the only way to truly immerse yourself in and appreciate all the long, uninterrupted film takes that will make you hold your breath.
Need I even mention that I'd be thrilled beyond belief if there ends up being a sequel :)