When it comes to action movies, perhaps no name has enticed moviegoers recently than John Wick. In 2014, audiences were introduced to the former hitman and since his debut the character’s notoriety has only increased with the sequel, John Wick Chapter 2 and John Wick Chapter 3: Parabellum, becoming major hits. This series has been the pinnacle of action films and one could not help but wonder just where John Wick would go after Chapter 3. Talks of a continuation began early as Chapter 3’s release and at one point the next installment was going to be split into two films. However, for various reasons, plans changed, and it took a little longer for John Wick to make his return to the big screen. Yet the wait for this next installment has come to an end as the bogeyman continues his quest for vengeance in John Wick Chapter 4.

Directed once again by Chris Stahelski, Chapter 4 sees John (Keanu Reeves) fighting his way to reclaim his freedom. With the help of his old friend Winston (Ian McShane), John finds a means out by challenging Marquis Vincent de Gramont (Bill Skarsgard) to a duel, but this task is easier said than done has John has to contend with assassins such as Caine (Donnie Yen). Speculation surrounding Chapter 4 was indeed high as many pondered just how the filmmakers would continue the story of John Wick; though comments from Stahelski did not help matters stating that the new film would not have a a happy ending. This point did not detract moviegoers from seeing the movie and despite being the fourth installment in the series, John Wick continued to win audiences over as the new movie has been heralded as an action masterpiece. This point, not to mention being a late fan of the series, was enough incentive for me to check the latest installment in John Wick, and to be honest calling this sequel and action masterpiece is an accurate statement.

It is hard to imagine that series would have such a strong sense of continuity and world building, but sure enough these action films have been solid in their storytelling, and it continues to do so in Chapter 4. The moment the film starts, the plot hooks viewers with its intensity and it never wavers throughout the near three-hour runtime. This is not to say that the story does not slow down as there were moments where the plot took time to breathe, and those points were appreciated. The only issue I had with the plot was that it could be formulaic in certain spots. While it made sense to stick to the script, as it has worked so far, it could be taxing to deal with these aspects in this installment. Aside from that minor issue, and yes it was a minor issue, the plot of this chapter was a fulfilling experience that culminated in a conclusion that, though a bit bittersweet, was fitting for the tale of John Wick.

Just like the story, the cast to John Wick has been a surprise as the series has created an impressive ensemble; and this element continued to strive in this latest installment. Keanu Reeves was as formidable as ever as John Wick. Character wise there was not much more development for Wick, but the grizzled hit man continued to be enjoyable protagonist and cements his position as one of Reeves’ best roles in his entire career. Along with John was an array of memorable characters. Donnie Yen was nothing short of impressive as Caine and was a perfect foil to Reeves’ Wick. A surprising addition to the cast was the inclusion of Mr. Nobody (Shamier Anderson). While his character needed more development, the tracker was still an effective character that worked within the confines of this world. The film had no shortage of standout supporting characters as well. Along with returning members like Laurence Fishbourne and Ian McShane, the movie also introduced new characters like Shimazu Koji (Hiroyuki Sanada) as well as Harbinger (Clancy Brown) though I wish they had more screen time. As for villains, Bill Skarsgard was solid as the Marquis. The Marquis may not have been the most interesting of villains, but Skarsgard’s performance was more than enough to make this sophisticated sociopath work.

To say that the John Wick series has redefined action movies would be an understatement. Between the terrific choreography and dynamic sequences, each film has shaped a new standard in the genre. So, to say that the fourth entry would not only be on par with the series’ standards but even excel on it to the point where the standard has now risen would be crazy-but sure enough the movie does just that. The action was phenomenal as each sequence was more intense than the next. One major factor working in the action’s favor was its sense of innovation. Both the camerawork and cinematography were vital in enhancing the action and the flawless execution was beneficial in creating memorable moments for the film. Also aiding the action was none other than the music by Tyler Bates and Joel J. Richard. The music was exuberant and a perfect companion piece for an action

John Wick Chapter 4 is the crescendo of this action series. Between keeping true to the franchise’s sense of storytelling and action the new installment shows that John Wick is as prevalent to movies as he was when he debuted in 2014. There is a chance, and a good one if you ask me, that the series will continue with another chapter, and it will be interesting to see what the filmmakers come up with next for Mr. Wick. However, until that day, it is in this Adventurer’s opinion that John Wick Chapter 4 is a definitive entry in this saga as it personifies everything that an action film can be.