John Wick

Released:  2014

7 Out of 10 Ginger Snaps

7 out of 10 ginger snaps 

Director:  Chad Stahelski and David Leitch

Writer:  Derek Kolstad

Producers:  Basil Iwanyk, David Leitch, Eva Longoria

Main Actors:  Keanu Reeves, Michael Nyvist, Willem Dafoe




Favorite Scene
Cop's arrival at John Wick's house after he just killed 12 hitmen

Favorite Character
Hotel Manager (Charon)

I have to be honest.  I gave this a lower rating then I would have if they had NOT killed the dog in the beginning.  I know - it was the impetus for the whole point of the movie, but... it made me really sad.

Anyway, now that I have admitted my bias, I did fully appreciate the explosions, gunfights, fist fights, and overall KILL THE REAL BAD GUYS AND GET REVENGE theme.  It was humous in how they handled the catering that took place to the badass guys.  That is one of the reasons I liked the Hotel Manager, played by Lance Reddick, so much.  I do hope that in the real world, places like the hotel and dinner reservation orders do not exist.  That would be so messed up.

The acting, effects, and fight choreography were done well.  Keanu Reeves is still hot using martial arts to kill people.  Not the best actor in the world, but this role was perfect for him.  He just had to go around kicking butt.

I recommend the movie to those of you who like violence on screen and appreciate nicely executed fights.  Those of you who will continue to cry after the dog dies, not recommended (I'm close to being in that camp, but not enough to negate my appreciation for staged combat).