Suave and brutal

Rating: 8/10 (20 May 2017)

The follow-up to 2014's surprise smash hit is much the same of what came before. And it's brilliant. Completely, unashamedly, couldn't-give-a-damn brilliant. It sticks close to its barebones formula: Wick reluctantly comes out of hit-man retirement, some idiot decides to double cross him, Wick goes on a killing spree that makes Rambo look like a humanitarian. The simplicity of the plot allows director Chad Stahelski—with his extensive background in action choreography—to focus on what is most important; brutal, balletic and innovative set pieces. Combining bruising close quarters combat, methodically stylish gun battles and subwoofer-breaking car carnage, the action sequences are rushes of pure adrenaline. The second act showpiece set in the Colosseum is an early contender for best set piece of the year. What amplifies the awesomeness of the action is the lack of rapid editing and messy cuts, the lengthy, uninterrupted shots showcasing not only the classy choreography but also the immense effort put in by Keanu Reeves to perform majority of the stunts. Reeves has long been known as a dedicated action star ever since his gigantic input into the Matrix trilogy, however, at age 53, his commitment is as astounding as ever. He's crafting John Wick—all stoic heroism and suave ferociousness—into a memorable action hero. John Wick: Chapter 2 offers no surprises narratively or tonally, but delivers all the imaginative, kick-arse action you could ask for in a movie.