We Didn’t Deserve John Wick - A Video Essay

[@gnarlin4964]

I think Keanu Reeves's speech in John Wick 1 in which he says that he says the maybe he's back was excellently done. Lots of intensity.

[@wozsalam8942]

yup

[@endertwelve]

Was about to say this. That level of rage was real and I was convinced that he's got the capability.

[@naf8787]

In cyberpunk he has so many well delivered lines so I'm convinced his voice in JW is on purpose

[@triadwarfare]

A lot of dialogue was cut in the first movie purposefully by the editor, but with good reason.

[@7StarHeryla]

It’s funny because it seemed like Keanu himself disappeared in the early 2000s in a way so that was also Keanu saying he’s back . And boy is he haha

[@shuvbhowmickbestin]

FINALLY someone talks about the STYLE of JW4...finally. It feels like all the credits is given only to the action pieces and not to the styles and costume design.

[@phr3ui559]

ok

[@kami_1789]

Marquis was looking very drippy

[@Zondels]

I feel like the whole movie series has gone too far, it does not really respect its original rules. For an example in the earlier movies when John Wick used his bulletproof suit, the bullets really hit him and he would have to take a few steps back and sometimes he even fell. Now in chapter 4, it is really stupid that he is basically just bulletproof and when he gets shot, he doesn't even flinch. All that aside, I think chapter 4 is a really good movie and Keanu Reeves, Donnie Yen and Ian McShane are really good actors and fit into their roles.

[@michaellane5381]

Great films all

[@3n3j0t4]

@@Zondels good point but if they respected those rules he’d realistically die in part 3

[@edweefication]

For me, the reason why this franchise thrives is simply because everyone is having fun and you could see it. I mean, it's obvious that the choreographers are having fun. The screenwriters are having fun. The actors are having fun. The director IS having fun. We could feel that instead of asking "what are we going to do to make money," they just go "hey, we have new budget, let's go crazy and see how far we could do."

[@JoseRodriguezBaby]

And not as far as ridiculous range of doing impossible things over and over again. There are gimmicks actually funny and goofy, but never ridiculous.

[@cocsmuggler6984]

The director actually got the dragons breath idea from a game.

[@jmanwild87]

About the Dialogue it's not just the writers who limit his lines Keanu himself will cut down his lines and while he may not be great at dialogue i will say Keanu seems really good at physical acting. his body language and face say a ton where he often struggles to not sound goofy.

[@jmanwild87]

Also in John Wick i feel it's very purposeful that John is incredibly awkward and doesn't speak much. Keanu can Act. I mean he talks a fuck ton in Cyberpunk 2077 and i feel he does a great job

[@joshuaserrano8807]

@@jmanwild87 I completely agree and have mentioned this to ppl, but what i don’t get is WHY? I’ve never gotten why he talks that way its kinda funny

[@jmanwild87]

@Joshua Serrano John seems like the kind of person who has no idea about the politics of the underworld and struggles deeply to not only connect with people but talk with them. (I mean in the first movie while at his wife's wake he stands alone) he probably rarely speaks at all with people and considering he probably hasn't talked with his friends under the table in years i can understand him sounding incredibly awkward with a weird cadence

[@3n3j0t4]

@@joshuaserrano8807 weird vocal chords, mouth/jaw structure, speaking habits, etc. probably

[@badgirlhollywood9741]

He puts on a good mask

[@ThomasLuongo]

Keanu Reeves is a better actor than I think you give him credit for. There's a sincerity that comes through all of his work (beyond his 'charisma') that he knows how to use very well. He is very good opposite the right people. JW is just not a man of words, doesn't need to speak and yet we know exactly what he's thinking. That's good acting. Reeves is economic. Yes, his range is limited but few can do what he does as well as he does it. He sells JW's pain. That's what makes this series work so well.

[@some_doofus]

I also do think he can pull off the more emotional, dramatic roles fairly well on occasion. I thought he was quite enjoyable to watch in The Devil's Advocate, even toward the end in the very heated and dialogue heavy scenes. Of course he had Al Pacino to help spur him along but I think it was definitely a good performance by Reaves.

[@Gyro_Scope360]

​@@some_doofus Keeanu reeves was in devils advocate?

[@azrael6280]

@@Gyro_Scope360 Keanu Reeves was The Devil's Advocate

[@tyrionstrongjaw7729]

I agree with this, I think people hold the "short dialogue" against him. (And yeah it's true his early attempts at shakespeare-esque monologues weren't exactly stellar) what Keanu has that a lot of actors don't is, seemingly, sincerity. The only reason he gets away with the minimal dialogue in JW4 is because we believe every syllable. Ofc it's been built up in the lore since the first movie (The baba yaga, he is a man of singular will etc...) But even with the lore, Keanu is sincere enough that somehow you buy a merchant of death fell in love with a woman and that changed his entire course in life. And even though the loss of her (and the pup) leads him back into that life, he's been changed by it, and somehow that's not just an action film hook but an emotional journey that you take along with him. I'm not sure the others that he listed as "stunt men" can pull that off.

[@Xx4PIN20xX]

Facts Keanu is a much better actor then he gives him credit for. He ain't no rock or Tom cruise.

[@demzdi9376]

John Wick 4 is the kind of movie you asked your most respected colleagues (in terms of mutual understanding) if they already watch it

[@usdjxavi]

Just saw chapter 4 today and yes they hit all the marks! That scene where they went hotline Miami mode with the dragons breath was pure chaotic ecstasy. The steps to the church when the score played genesis by justice a group that has that raw French sound that has this film really connect to its Paris setting, especially with the news of today going on- the streets are hectic around the world. The visuals felt like I was watching a moving renaissance painting. It was the most visually pleasing movie in the franchise! 10/10 I’m going to watch this movie at least 2 more times in theaters

[@JoseFM61]

I’m pretty sure the “hotline Miami” mode scene was paying homage to the John wick indie game! Check it out and you’ll see what I’m talking about! Got swept under the rug!

[@3n3j0t4]

@@JoseFM61 that game is awful I’m sorry bud

[@ProfDCoy]

Ehhhh, it's a decent game for whay it costs. I wouldn't tell anyone it's a must have but I wouldn't warn anyone to not even try it. I had fun. And yeah, that scene had to have been a wink to the game.

[@ProfDCoy]

And if all that game achieved was convincing them to shoot that JW4 scene, it was 1000% worth it.

[@3n3j0t4]

@@ProfDCoy that scene was not a nod to the game you’re overthinking it. John Wick Hex did not invent top down cinematography

[@whynot1548]

Keanu's acting has undoubtedly improved greatly in the last 20 years

[@Kolateak_]

_"Yeah"_

[@chanceseverson]

idk about that one I audibly laughed out loud whenever he talked during the fourth movie

[@kangjhha]

@@chanceseverson 😂

[@cgreen9686]

I would counter Keanu is a great actor who’s natural demeanor is his greatest asset. I don’t think anyone could play any of his iconic roles better. He doesn’t need to say much because you can enjoy his subtle personality without the need of a bunch of words.

[@corwinjkabuki]

Since Bill and Ted Keanu has been extremely likable! There's no denying that.

[@kuranhelix278]

A performance from Keanu that I love and kinda shows that he CAN deliver "good dialogue" is Cyberpunk 2077. Not sure if it's the character but I just love his performance in the game.

[@ReaperShackal]

I think alot of it is good casting. Silverhand isn't an extremely expressive person aside from a few emotions like anger. He's deep but in ways that aren't on display. You don't require a Bryan Cranston level actor for that kind of character. That said, I think it is Keanu's best work. I very much appreciate his portrayal of the character.

[@adawgpullup]

shame we didnt see much more of that

[@naf8787]

​@@adawgpullup cyberpunk dlc is inbound so fingers crossed

[@XiahouDun1225]

I wanna say, Reeves' Third Act Breakdown(?) in John Wick 1 was pretty good. When he actually tells Viggo why he's ripping his empire down. It's like, there was all this build up to it. Like the deeper and deeper into the film it got, the higher and higher the pressure got, until he let out a little steam valve.

[@codyyu2113]

9:45 As the wise Charlie would say… “these are not clips… THESE ARE MAGS!”

[@Saipan2297]

that's a bit nitpicking ngl

[@kaufmankieran]

I was hoping I wouldn't have to be the jerk to say it 😂

[@DoctorQuackenbush]

@@kaufmankieran With all the underhanded efforts to unconstitutionally restrict firearms ownership post Bruen, using terms properly is important. I don’t mind being the jerk in such context. 😉

[@SolidusLightning777]

​@@Saipan2297if it's blatantly incorrect, it's not nitpicking. Mags are boxes with springs, clips are pieces of metal with grooves. Completely different.

[@DerTypDa]

What I particularly love about this series is how you can really see and feel the quality of every single aspect of the production. Of course, Stahelski and Reeves get well-deserved praise for direction and acting. But also literally every other thing is on point. The secondary characters are incredibly entertaining. The writing hits a great balance between gritty, intriguing, and just very slightly comedic. The stunt team is incredible and absolutely best in class. The cinematography is enchanting and bold. The set design is memorable and beautiful. The audio is excellent. The costuming is great particularly when they get to really go for it, like with Osaka and the Marquis. There is just no aspect of them that feels half-assed or low-effort.

[@byronfredrick1280]

Watching 2-4 in theaters multiple times really paints your point. Everytime the audience was super engaged and it really feels like everyone is being brought together to watch John Wick whoop ass in creative, funny, and badass ways.

[@someonelikeme7551]

So true about the action being very grounded but JW still seems like a superhero. Love the franchise and I hope it gets more recognition!

[@joaopescusa]

And the other characters in the franchise do speak about JW in such high marks that the audience knows he is the top dog in the room, in any situation.

[@gabrielpanagsagan9741]

You ain't gonna get the reputation of being called the baba yaga for nothing

[@rasalasblack]

So, who will win? John Wick vs The Punisher? Someone's gotta ask and I'm excitedly curious AF.

[@andisa9599]

It’s criminal how not a single John wick movie hasn’t crossed billion box office mark

[@UserNameUnavailableAtThisTime]

I was already SO pumped for The Batman. I accidentally managed to see it in a theatre that was not only IMAX but SURROUND SOUND. I had an out of body experience when Batman burst through the flames of the semi truck wreckage while his theme BLARED! I walked out mind blown cause that was exactly what you talked about, a film MEANT for the theatre. I genuinely don't wanna watch it again unless it's in a place even similar to a theatre. A phone, laptop, or even tv will NEVER compare to that experience.

[@AllPurposeBaked]

WOAH! Didn’t realize this was a smaller channel until I checked the comments. This is good stuff my friend. I’d love to see a spoiler review of the final film. I truly think that it might be THE best action movie ever made. The influences from gun fu movies and old Hollywood stunt work are just immaculate!

[@LunarXZ_]

It ain’t the final one, they already greenlit a 5th

[@s4muel820]

@@LunarXZ_ They did? im not too sure thats a good thing in my opinion the end of chapter 4 was a perfect conclusion to the story.

[@LunarXZ_]

@@s4muel820 yeah idk either, I don’t want to them to turn it into the next fast and the furious franchise. But the director, Keanu, and everyone else involved seems to deeply care about the series and their fans, so if they make a 5th I think they’d only do it if they knew the fans would really love it.

[@s4muel820]

@@LunarXZ_ If they could find a way to make it even better than the 4th one I obviously wouldn't complain, but I don't want them to ruin the already beautiful ending.

[@johnmacangus2634]

​@@LunarXZ_ I hope we get to discover more of Mr Nobody. I find him fascinating as a character

[@uchidaoginome]

On Tom Cruise's "limited" acting ability, have you ever seen Born on the Fourth of July? Jerry McGuire? Magnolia?! His performances in Legend, The Outsiders and even as far back as Taps are great for a young actor just coming onto the scene. In The Color of Money he was also phenomenal! I watched War of the Worlds with my kids last summer and even I forgot how much of a range of emotion he shows there. The guy's got chops! And he's a hell of a producer. When he puts his money behind a film, it gets made and made well.

[@LordHaveMurcielago]

I don’t understand. Why the hell does Tom Cruise keep getting hated on?! Smh

[@thelegolistme3250]

Just wanna add Last Samurai to your list, Cruise can act incredibly well

[@alxk78]

I coudnt agree with you more, there is a reason why Scorsese put a 19 year old Tom Cruise next to Paul Newman in the color of money, because hes one one hell of an actor. I agree Keanu wasnt great in Dracula but Tom cruise was awesome as Lestat in Interview with a vampire.

[@Blue_Lunacy]

I guess it's because Cruise seems to be more focus on the Mission Impossible franchise and action films more in the last decade. There are legit reason why people do not like Tom Cruise. Since he is one of the highest ranking member of Scientology.

[@Ralderable]

Hear! Hear!

[@marioarcadia3611]

John Wick is the franchise we didn't deserve, but the one we need...

[@Red19487]

I think the whole "doesn't die from falling insane heights" is because like Marquis said in the 4th movie "Just a ghost looking for a grave" so you can say he can't "die" until he finds it even with the foreshadowing where he mentions about his tombstone.

[@matthewwatson9502]

Surely you're not being serious

[@FoNgThOnG]

"No ones head explodes" Chapter 3, some of those High Table Soldiers head do get exploded after John upgrades to the shotgun lol

[@euclyptuseuphoria3759]

To be honest, it'd be more unrealistic if they got shot in the head with a shotgun and it DIDNT explode

[@olibz]

Well you did say upgraded shotgun

[@FalconCooper]

After having watched Chapter 4 three times already in theater (and many more times will happen), it's just the perfect example of a cinemactic experience. The settings, the action, the photography and the music really come together on the big screen, the nightclub scene had me vibing for real.

[@SalvationCode]

I remain immensely surprised & grateful that this series kept its momentum up and only got better with more installments. I still remember watching JW1 in 2014 and being blown away by the refreshingly confident action shots that weren't afraid of lingering or showing you everything. I think the Red Circle Club scene in that movie still ranks as my favorite action sequence of all time, honestly. I also think Keanu is very good at a particular kind of acting. He definitely brings the intensity and sincerity required for a character like John. Same with Johnny Silverhand in Cyberpunk. His barely restrained rage & turmoil comes through really well in both of those roles.

[@somthingsomething665]

I don´t know if i´m nitpicking here, but the first Mission Impossible movie was a spy thriller. Not to be mistaken what it has evolved into. Now it´s just Tom Cruise doing insane stunt performances. The plot and characters have been side lined. As for the JW, it´s great to see a franchise doing it´s own thing. When it comes to filming action.

[@SmartypantsTutoring]

Great video. I love this franchise. I’m of two minds. Part of me wants to see more of Wick, but another is glad to them get out on top. I hope the spin-offs have the same level of craft and care.

[@yKO-pq4cb]

Wasn't there going to be a fifth movie as well?

[@SmartypantsTutoring]

There was talk of it. Then it got scrapped as 4 got even better than what they initially pictured. Now there is talk of it again.

[@GodForHire]

​@@SmartypantsTutoring There is a spin-off movie called the ballerina about John's crime family and then there's a 3 part miniseries show about a young Winston and tue continental in the 1970's. With the possibility of more projects down the road, so we are gonna be in the wick-verse for a while longer.

[@maxvl2832]

A movie of how JW became who he is and working under the high table would be awesome!

[@aryangautam8362]

Yeah JW 5 needs to be a prequel 😊

[@soulofcinder201]

Yeah but I would like the impossible job to remain a mystery

[@hourglas]

​@@soulofcinder201I'd like to see his true last job, the one that made him decide to quit. Then the movie ends with him asking for an Out and being given the "impossible task".

[@krill360x]

There is a comic book showing that.

[@CaptainLeftHook]

@@aryangautam8362 Keanu is almost 60. He can't act much younger John Wick.

[@chasylazy4862]

I totally agree, as much as I love John wick, this is really the perfect ending for him, I would like to see more stories of the world setting, but please no John wick 5

[@iantaakalla8180]

If there is a fifth movie, it better focus on the outcome of John winning his freedom throughout perspectives not involving John Wick at all without adding any more story

[@illusion630]

@@iantaakalla8180 No man John wick 5 needs to be a prequel, John Wick actually needs to be in the movie called John Wick 5

[@DesocupadoXtremo]

Keanu acting in John wick is like he was an video game protagonist, hes only a mean to drive the story not an integral part himself, thats what makes the audience see yourself as him

[@lyh01]

I always chuckle a bit whenever film youtubers bring up the liam neeson fence hopping scene lol. The amount of cuts is truly ridiculous

[@aesenam]

I was totally onboard until the tiers of actors, and you put Tom Cruise, an actor with a Palme d'Or and Golden Globe in a tier with The Rock. You probably need to watch more of his films to see just how good Tom Cruise is.

[@RayJacobsenJr]

I saw John Wick Chapter 4 in Imax, In the first second of the movie behind me i heard "Holy Sh!t" two seconds later I heard behind me "Here" " We" "Go" You had to be there to understand.

[@Synchronicitizen]

The creators of JW4 pay homage to many of their favorite directors, martial arts styles, cars, etc in these films. I believe that Keanu is modeling his interpretation of the John Wick character after the performances of the great Clint Eastwood in his “spaghetti westerns” of the ‘60’s and 70’s. When you watch the Ruska Roma scene in Berlin where John Wick suffers as an ever-tightening noose digs into his neck, how can you not be reminded of Clint Eastwood in Hang ‘Em High. Keanu gives a great performance. You might want to brush up on your film history. These references (from eastern philosophical passages to lines of dialogue from previous JW chapters and The Matrix trilogy) are vast in scope. Do some homework, then keep these things in mind the for the next time you rewatch John Wick 4.

[@LittleOzzyLand]

The Warriors, 1979.

[@Synchronicitizen]

@@LittleOzzyLand Yes, and that too!☺️

[@Koifin3]

Keanu is much better of an actor than you give him credit for. His role in Cyberpunk alone is a masterclass.

[@dondydoo7474]

Watched JW if they made the film an hour longer, and I would not have noticed .Talk about time flying Bye. Action nonstop ,almost shed a tear at the end . If anything, it must be seen on the big screen. 🎉

[@_loechness_]

I saw this in my local imax theater. Started at 9:30 pm, got out at 12:30 am.

[@kleini3]

I think one of the best scenes in chapter 4 was the fight scenes in Osaka in the training room with the samurai artifacts. U can really see how he exhaust more and more through the fight and how it’s impact’s his moves

[@j.r.b7661]

Everything about this was perfect except the slight at Tom Cruise, who’s dramatic performances are really quite outstanding. Rain Man, Born on the 4th, Jerry Maguire, A Few Good Men. The list goes on really

[@technicalleon]

Haven't seen JW4 yet, but I'm a fan of the franchise. Besides the excellent and grounded action choreography, I particularly love John Wick for their amazing world building, especially in the first movie. The idea of this unspoken underground society of assassins who transact using gold coins just captured my imagination. They did such a great job with setting up the world of John Wick just through the little bits and pieces they sprinkled into the first movie.

[@Anand_KL]

I just stumbled onto this video and I have nothing but praise for your audio essay. Every word you spoke was spot on. Absolutely brilliant. Thank you for writing it, editing it, speaking it and for the whole video. I loved the film; it's by far the best of four brilliant films. It's set a very high benchmark for action films that will follow. I agree that they should stop here, on a high but I sure would look forward to a Chapter 5. Whilst every frame of every scene was simply brilliant, the scene where the camera starts low and moves up and up to looking down and we see John fighting in a continuous take, has to be the bestest scene ever. Brilliant. I'll be going to an IMAX cinema near me for a second viewing specifically for that scene. Whilst every one of the four films showcase urban design, cities, streets, architecture, interiors, handrails, bookshelves, elevations, plan views, it's this fourth film that simply does it the best. Every architect, every designer must see it. Thank you mate for a brilliant video.

[@ChrisS-tu4pj]

To be fair, Cruise has done some really good stuff outside his usual range. 'Rainman', 'Interview with the Vampire', 'Born on the 4th of July' to name a few. Cruise isn't Day Lewis, but he's more than Reeves and Rock.

[@wrenside]

One important factor is the director likes to direct action. many directors hand off this work to someone else. Second is preparation. The action sequences have been worked out to a fair thee well so that once the cameras are rolling they know what the hell to do. This saves time and money and gives the action flow. great presentation. thanks.

[@pepperpeterpiperpickled9805]

I just want a prequal in which John Wick earns his reputation, meets his future wife and decides he wants out. Then we see him take down an entire crime family. We can see how much he loved his wife and it will enhance the entire franchise because we know that love is what kick-started the series.

[@jondoe7451]

Tom Cruise has "just enough talent to get by"? WTF? I'm far from a Cruise fan, but the guy's nailed a wide range of serious dramatic roles.

[@TheSkyFallTronic]

I think the idea is that he is playing "Tom Cruise" in all of his movies or is relatively one dimensional. Daniel Day-Lewis, Leonardo DiCaprio and the like are playing everything and anything. I like Cruise's performance in "Tropic Thunder" but in anything else, he does, I just see Tom Cruise on the screen, just like The Rock, Ryan Reynolds, Arnold, Sylvester, Jackie Chan and so on. That being said, it would be a weird movie to see Leonardo DiCaprio doing karate kicks and one liners while flexing his pecks.

[@Will_Parker]

Anything made by this production team, Nobody, Bullet Train, Violent Night and of course John Wick, NEEDS to be seen in theaters. They're fun and everything about them, from the visuals to the sound design, needs to be seen on the best possible setup with a bunch of other people.

[@andisa9599]

If he spoke a lot, that would ruin the mystery that is John Wick, so him not talking a lot is the best thing for this movie and to push the bad ass narrative of him

[@DouglasBurton]

I love the explanation about how Keanu does very little talking and all the great actors around him just talk for him. I had never really thought about that. It worked so well at building the mythos of John Wick that I didn't think of the real world reasons as well.

[@cosmoskronos5489]

I'm not sure if the reference to Mauler's "Unbridled Praise" was intentional, but it's really funny considering the EFAP crew's take on the John Wick series xD

[@Croiri]

Simply amazing. The actors, the stunts, the attention to detail. Scenes are clear and did not make use of "shaky af camera", which makes it even better. I repeat, simply amazing.

[@doublep1980]

The only other action movie franchise that can compete with the John Wick movies, are the The Raid films. Sadly there are only 2 of them. Director Gareth Evans just finished shooting a new movie, called ''Havoc'' starring Tom Hardy for netflix and I can't wait to see it. He also did a tv-series, called ''Gangs of London'' which I recommend.

[@dantefromdevilmaycry9857]

Wait what? When's it coming out?!

[@doublep1980]

@@dantefromdevilmaycry9857 No release date as of yet, but the movie is in post-production.

[@GatoConBotas403]

The last wish absolutely SLAPS in theaters

[@berivers5141]

"Mission Impossible" 1 is a classic. It was a different time with different expectations that paved the way for the films of today.

[@DoctorQuackenbush]

Gonna have to disagree. Phelps (or Briggs in S1) would never be a traitor. I stopped after MI 1. I loved the original TV show, though.

[@vn3202]

Agreed. Mind boggling to think that MI1 is "mediocre". That movie is a true classic. Albeit more of spy movie and less high octane but imo, by far, the best MI movie.

[@jaimeruiz7837]

I remember Keanu wanted to play Spike in a Cowboy Bebop movie and he never had the chance. He finally got that ending though on the stairs.

[@eduardomiguelcauichchan9984]

Bang!

[@danrowden3898]

I too love this franchise and look forward to seeing 4. Nice video. Well written and expressed.

[@T4ZSK1]

I agree with the point of Keanu Reeves not being that great of an actor... which was one of the reasons I was so positively surprised by Johnny Silverhand in Cyberpunk. It wasn't an overly expressive character either, but he NAILED the subtlety of the character. His anger towards corporations, regret over how he left things with Rogue and Kerry and his deep sadness over what's become of his legacy... all top notch. But I feel like that was also mostly due to the excellent writing and directing of the game. If it hadn't been for the bugs and missing features I think we'd STILL be talking about Cyberpunk's masterful story and direction.

[@MrOiram46]

Keanu did have a great moment of dialogue in the 1st John Wick film where Wick demands Viggo to hand over his son or he’ll get them both.

[@jabariweathers309]

Great video. I wanna say, I think that there is some aspects of Keanu as an *actor* that goes unappreciated. Thumbsucker, My Own Private Idaho, The Matrix (IMO), and Parenthood show that he actually is an above average actor. He may have limited range, but I think he actually has a fair amount of depth, especially for an actor who's known for very poppy films. One huge thing about Keanu *is* that dedication, which you do call out, but I think he also really understands on a very mechanical level the craft and mechanics of the projects he involves himself in, or at least he tries to. He's really deeply intelligent about unpretentious pop art, and I think that lack of pretention turns into an onscreen earnestness that many more...thespianly performers frequently lack. Also, in the case of John Wick, I think it's really clear that it's not just the writers choosing to reduce Keanu's dialogue, as there were reports of Keanu gunning to say less and less in each movie (and especially in 4), but it isn't because he isn't capable, I think Keanu is clearly leaning into the idiosyncracy, fantasy (and humor) of John as a character, and he does *a lot* with his physical acting even when he isn't doing stunts that just doesn't get talked about enough in my opinion. Compare his performance in JW4 to the original, the original has some of Keanu's clearest dramatic acting in an action film since The Matrix, but John Wick 4 sees him as a character get such loveable reactions and I can't help but feel we (even the droves of us who clearly love these films) undersell what is calibrated deadpan as just non/bad acting. One other aspect of Keanu's performance that I think is underappreciated or underconsidered is that he is...talking like himself (a more exaggerated and more clipped version film by film, but all the same), Keanu does have a kind of 'awkward' cadence to his speech sometimes. People have an awkward cadence to their speech sometimes, and for me, as funny as it can be it does make John feel like a person in this heightened world rather than just an action movie cipher. I think that when you point out that John doesn't always look "cool" doing cool and violent work as a character, but comes off as cool because he's getting shit done rather than feeling like a pantomime, that earnestness extends to his dialogue scenes. I'll take watching performers really commit to material they want to be present for and understand fully over someone who is overperforming but seemingly in a different scene because they aren't present and earnest in the scene they are contributing to. I don't think that Keanu is awards worhty or anything in these movies, but I do think he is good, and don't need to qualify that with "at what he does" when what he's doing on these (and other) films is actually very hard work.

[@nolanrex00]

I watched John Wick chapter 4 in theaters 3 times and my favorite thing to do was to count bullets and "goons". Every bullet is seen and heard, you can count and figure out exactly when John needs to reload and it's sooooo satisfying to follow along as the fights go on. There are parts of the movie when I knew he was out of bullets but the character didn't so he would try to shoot a goon but it didn't work and he would have to improvise. It's so fun. It was also fun to count how many people he would take out at each location, and to count the number of moves he would use to take each one out. My favorite will always be in the Osaka location, where he would take some goons out in 3 moves! I also loved counting the "kill" count in the house where he had that fire gun, the one who can pierce suits. Also sooooo satisfying!

[@archipelago93]

10:21 That’s a really good point. The mix between it not being realistic at all on the whole, but the individual fights are very realistic, are a big part of what make it such a compelling franchise. It reminds me of a lot of the more recent comic book movies-and not just that they have super powers, but personally I’m not a fan of how much light hearted humor is part of the story when they’re literally fighting to save the universe.

[@sameersadh6717]

I have to disagree with you about your Tom Cruise comment . He was a character actor before he became an action hero . Comparing his acting skills to arnold's /Rock's is really insulting.

[@bverrue602]

And Mission Impossible was great. 2 and 3 tried but the style didn't fit. (Sorry John Woo)

[@Aczie042]

Excellent analyze of John Wick. Now I have to see the 4th one in theatres.

[@Baitullmaqdis]

I would call myself a John Wick enthusiast but u sir is what one calls a true John Wick connoisseur..... the way u set the proper rules into executing this valuable thought after video then again "Rules… without them we live with the animals,”

[@Yackattack22]

I don't care what anyone says John 4 wasn't very good. Every fight was drawn out and every opponent has bulletproof something to make the kill unsatisfying. Remember the first half of the hotel holding back the table's army in John Wick 3? It was that the entire movie. For some reason they make John Wick choose a low caliber firearm over one that can penetrate the armor, so most of the movie is fighting. There was zero suspense like the other movies, and not only for those but they added 3 non flushed out characters, and there were so many plot holes.

[@doc655]

11:41 that shot always looked so cool to me

[@SunGawdRa]

Damn, you broke it down pretty perfectly, haha! While I love Keanu too, him being taciturn works pretty well for these movies.

[@leandroschenone7253]

You get my like and comment just because of the intro.. now allow to finish the rest of the video, that is just my undeserved deserve in this Wonderful and amazing world that stahelski and koldstad calve for us 🎉

[@makatron]

Still remember watching the first John Wick in a nearly empty theater, it was a sleeper hit.

[@alteredbeast7145]

I remember sitting at home and putting the first movie on a whim. I can count on one hand the amount of films I remember watching for the first time.

[@Not_So_Slim_Shady]

I love how they show different styles of fighting. Some people do the big Kung Fu kicks and flashy moves and stuff but John mostly does Judo or Aikido

[@darthrevan2957]

Did my man just call attack of the clones a comedy? 😂 0:33

[@bw50v14]

it is

[@terradon852]

I thought the awkwardness between him and donnie in the church scene fit perfectly in that context. 2 friends that don't want to kill each other but have to.

[@LFPS0311]

I just reaaaally don't like how John doesn't seem to know any takedowns that don't involve him falling on his bum as well.

[@jameswest360]

I might not like him as a real person but Tom Cruise is actually a really good actor

[@jacobharris954]

Oscar nominated to be exact at least twice

[@YoungSonChun]

was looking for this comment haha, great video but the rock is definitely not on the same tier as tom cruise for acting

[@jokermorningstar5816]

my most cherrished cinema memories is me going alone

[@pepperpeterpiperpickled9805]

I saw that dumpster fire of a horror movie 'Scream 6', the characters kept making jokes- even when bleeding to death, I dont understand how the writer or director wants me to feel when watching it

[@march4232]

Touching on your topic that oftentimes John isn't made out to be infinitely cooler than he actually is during fights. I mean, he absolutely is cool, but that's more just the result of the actual fight scene than the camera going out of their way to paint him as hot shit. A result of the kevlar suits that John and the High Table employees wear is that oftentimes during firefights, they're hiding behind their suit jackets to protect their heads! It makes sense in context, but that isn't as if it isn't a little silly. I just appreciate that the creators managed to incorporate that facet of their fighting styles without completely taking you out of the action!

[@MegaMan-bs3oy]

I had the honor of seeing Everything Everywhere alone at my local AMC. Sat in the middle with my popcorn and coke. Cried laughed and clapped like I was a kid again. That movie and that cast deserved every thing they got.

[@Emmycron]

i'm a huge john wick fan. haven't been to a movie theater since the first sonic movie. illegally streamed jw4 the other night, absolutely loved it so much i decided to go watch it irl with a friend. amazing experience, 100% would recommend

[@theknave4415]

While I agree wrt to his acting chops, without Keanu Reeves, I don't think this franchise could've worked w/o becoming a parody of itself. With the wrong lead, it would've been a complete disaster.

[@josephdonovan2123]

Really great video! I got halfway through, checked to see if it was by a channel I know, and was incredibly surprised you don't even have 2k subscribers. Keep it up, you'll go places!

[@peterveckmen9314]

The disrespect to these martial arts by calling them Kung Fu like bro no as someone who loves judo, MMA and fighting in general nah man like 80% of these moves are things that would work in an actual fight

[@jacobharris954]

And I like kung fu especially wing chun. If he done his due diligence he would know it is Judo, Sambo, Brazilian Jiu jitsu and Aikido.

[@coolaxeguy6629]

What a very enjoyable video, like stated I thought this vid being at 20 minutes was pushing for what the title suggested but here we are me happy having watched it.

[@ZeZwede]

Imagine puting tom Cruise level of acting as the same as The Rock.

[@rodneywhite9795]

Watching john wick for the the first time when i was 20 was like watching the matrix for the first time when i was 5, just a surreal yet amazing experience

[@michaelelele4358]

I really enjoyed this and your points were interesting and well thought out-… but every time a word ends in -ing you say -in’. Kinda wild

[@punnia123]

The fact that I remember freaking two liner Jimmy from the first movie says a lot about how every scene was relevant in setting up the lore and character of John wick. The makers know that Vigo saying just 'oh' is more powerful in conveying his skillset than a whole monologue.

[@slimmccoy8863]

"What did he say?" "He said enough." Great stuff.

[@TheShaleco]

Thank you for putting all my thoughts into a video. I've been gushing about these movies for years and It's incredible they just keep getting better and better.

[@JCarrera_ll]

🖤🔥If it's the last one, definitely people should do marathons of all 4, or at least double features back to back, they all definitely feel like they need to be watched back to back not just chapter 2 and 3

[@ethansdroid]

Three mins in and we get a "I'm 'bout tuh GLAAAAZE" disclaimer. Instant sub

[@kaiser0342]

Beautiful essay sir....don't call magazines clips thou ❤

[@lubomirkmec425]

I absolutely agree. It's the perfect action movie series. I've seen people complain about how unrealistic the movies are but compared to something like Fast & Furious John Wick is beautifully dancing on the thin line that turns a movie from a good action to unrealistic bullshit. The lack of sarcastic and "funny" scenes also helps this.

[@pgplaysvidya]

nevermind john wick. this channel is criminally underrated subbed

[@bigdreams5554]

Saw this in an empty theatre in 2014 and knew i had just seen a future classic. Love how they grew the universe and JW4 is visually stunning.

[@miles0169]

Great work on the script man. Wish could give this vid 25 likes.

[@Zavex]

Hey this is a pretty good video for a small channel. That one scene in Osaka with a cherry blossom type of tree behind John Wick was beautiful, perfect wallpaper material ha

[@RAMZAVFX]

Isn't it rare how few movies have excellent addiction to the series, not just for 1 but 3 additions?

[@kapilsharmaWorld_uncensored]

I respectfully disagree on the comments about MI3 The movie was so good

[@pudlmaker]

Very well done video, explains my fascination with the series.

[@christianpetersen6771]

Most of the time I want to watch an action movie I watch John Wick. And whenever something else is running I ask myself, why I waste my time not watching John Wick. Its simply the best action movie ever made.

[@GiodyneSTG]

That top down scene in 4 was so sick I thought wick was in hotline Miami for a sec

[@buckrogers5331]

Very well done and articulated. Your voice sounds like another top film analyst. Not surprised. You deserve more subs.