The reason why so many people don't see it is because many of its layers are communicated through unspoken visual storytelling, and the average person was never taught or cared to learn media literacy, especially media literacy in visual storytelling.
“Rules are the only thing that separate us from the animals” And yet it is the dogs in these movies who are consistently the most loyal and loving characters. Meanwhile all of John’s friends who play by the table’s rules betray him or allow themselves to be pitted against him.
@@snax7760Koji was too arrogant Caine litreally spared his life and just left him with a stab in his hip After that he said Just Take Care of your daughter But koji still tried to take down caine
@@karloaquinde3476 definitely! I even was waiting for him to betray baba or something of the like... But he never did, even in spite of literally having wick in his crosshairs at times. It was really quite refreshing, especially in the world wick inhabits
John is a professional in a society populated by amateurs. He was so before coming to work in the world of the Table and it’s clear the table saw him as someone not to be crossed given how he earned his way out. Their mistake was not leaving him alone when he killed Santino and they’ve been greatly weakened by the end of Chapter 4. I don’t think John’s actually dead, but we shall see.
I dont think they are really weakened per se, given their "hydra" analogy (since they are global conglomerate of old and powerful crime syndicates). In terms of the image of their "sacredness" or reputation among the criminals, they are weakened, but it's a matter of brand or marketing. It will only take time before their reputation is restored and their rules absolute once more. Though I wonder if its good or not if the table's destroyed. As Winston himself noted, rules and regulations separate man from animals. If the table is ruined, the criminals will run amock attempting to fill in the power vacuum. History shows that most of the time they will only get replaced by viler more ruthless conglomeration of criminals.
@@findingnemo2089 This is completely true. Whilst the story at a surface level is cheering for John to destroy the High Table, there's plenty of evidence - both explicit and implied - that the Table is the only thing keeping these criminal gangs in check. The nature of the system means there will always be innocent victims - they are CRIMINAL gangs after all, they make money by exploiting and abusing the inncoent - but the rules the Table enforces are highly effective at restricting and regulating gang violence in such a way that bystanders outside the criminal world are barely affected when it happens. I think the decision to show almost exclusively gangers and assassins and having civilians be little more than background NPCs is very intentional, it shows how although there is extreme violence, it is completely contained within the criminal world. If the High Table collapses, there is nothing keeping order any more and nothing stopping the gang violence from becoming the catastrophe it is in the real world. However, there is one potential long term benefit. Though the High Table collapsing would inevitably result in bloody struggle, it would completely eliminate the ability of the criminal underworld to act in concert to protect itself. The influence of the criminals over the civilian world would weaken, and it may become possible for the forces of the state (with the scale of these gangs, the army would be better suited than the police!) to crush these criminal gangs completely. A brief period of intense carnage could lead to the system being completely broken in the long term. However, that's something I seriously doubt the series will ever go through
The point of the movie was to show that you cannot win against the table. You slay the high table's head and 3 more heads pop up and take it's place. The only way "John" could live a peaceful life is if "John Wick" died.
No way is John dead. He needed "Wick" the legend, to die, but John is very much alive and I can all but prove it. Look at where he was shot. In the arm. Beneath the floating rib. Upper shoulder. (Careful not to hit the clavicle.) 2 of those should sound VERY familiar. It's the same area's the doctor had him shoot after he was excommunicated... You know, to make it look legit. 😉 Caine's no fool. It's EXACTLY where John shot HIM. (Secret code?) Just like the new man above the table said, "The only way John Wick will know peace, is in death." Johns out there somewhere, but John Wick, loving husband, is dead. John was never afraid to die, he only wanted to carry on his wife's memory.
I feel like you kinda left something out, that being how Johns sacrifice seems to have inspired others, as the Harbinger said in JW4, if John wins the duel he’ll become a saint and it would “shake the very foundations of the High Table” I think this refers to how his actions would incite rebellion and maybe something akin to hope to other unwilling members of the assassin underworld. We saw something like this with Bowery King, he said he was “branching out” and that johns actions inspired him to do so. Just my kind of two two cents there. Thought it makes for an interesting idea.
Plenty of "High Table" "Continental" stories to tell in the aftermath of his life. SO many possible protagonists have already been presented. Just a case of telling good exciting stories that involve them.
I am so glad that you made a video pointing out the story and hidden depths. Most video essays forget the creators intented to be a anti action trope movie hence success
I think the highest showing that John Wick is Honor where his friends, even though bound to the High Table will go against it because Honor demands it The connections between his friends is what kept him alive and accomplish his goals
Which is why I think the fifth movie should be him trying to help Akira and Caine. They helped him, it’s time for him to be something that isn’t the Baba Yaga.
Thank you for this video. I see way too many people say that the movies after the first one suck because it’s all action and no plot other than “John goes full Rambo mode.” While it’s true that there is more action and stunt work in the sequels and the character journey/transformation is slower, it’s unfortunate how these people miss out on how the entire saga is John Wick’s character arc coming full circle, it doesn’t just end with the first film. Just because he barely talks and there are very few deep and quiet moments in the sequels does not detract from his journey as an anti-hero, and how they build the foundation of the world that John dragged himself back into and how that world brings development and ultimately closure to his character. Just because there’s a lot of action and it isn’t a slow burn arthouse film, does not mean there isn’t room for good storytelling, which is why I feel John Wick is a masterclass saga: it pleases both those looking for a good story, and those who simply want fun good old blockbuster action.
I appreciate his proficient manner of speaking, I remember cringing when listening to a Marvel Movie, how much they tried to make it look relatable, at one point I sincerely wanted them to shut up about throwing Wanda a party, compare it to JW, each time they spoke, it was brief but memorable, Sommelier's way of talking about guns like how collector talks about wine, Charon's attitude and mannerism, Winston's dialogue finally setting John Wick's final arc in motion and the Russian Mob Boss literally dropping a Dante's Divine Comedy quote to him with the "The path to paradise begins in hell."
A lot of the nuance in these movies is communicated through its visual storytelling, and a lot of people don't have the media literacy to identify that sort of thing and are instead only capable of observing the most superficial, explicit layer or if deeper ideas are explicitly spoonfed to them verbally.
One additional detail from John Wick 4 that adds onto the whole mythology aspect of the series is that the grey-suited enforcers in the Osaka fight are known as the “Myrmidons," as stated by Chidi's actor Marko Zaror in an interview. The Myrmidons were well-armored elite soldiers who served Achilles during the Trojan war.
@ahmad wajeeh hopefully the next one wont attempt to one up the previous one again. Its cool that it has reach this point and still feel fresh, but, at some point it will become stale or make zero sense/ break suspension of disbelief too blatantly. I hope they only continue when they got something new to offer us. Maybe a deeper delve into the myth of John Wick.
Mr reeves said hello to me one day two year's ago it made my year, no it made all my years, John wick is one of my favourite movies and i love your talks on movies as it explains movies even better so well done.
Really interesting analysis! Apart from the outstanding choreography this movies have, what has kept me coming back to this series is the world building, I'm looking forward to what they'll do with the new movie and Continental series.
I wouldn't really classify John Wick as an antihero. The three traits of the literary/film hero are "Bravery, Nobility, Virtue" and to be an antihero you have to break 1 or more of these traits. But in a world where seemingly everyone is either an assassin or works for assassins, John is probably the bravest, most noble and most virtuous character in all 4 films.
The only thing that makes john antihero is that his entire fuel is just revenge. He doesn't have higher goal/ ideal to champion in, he is a wildfire burning everything in his wake. The name "wick" describe him perfectly, someone sets him off and he just go bang bang bang.
What makes a character an anti-hero is not just only with their lacks of heroic traits of "Bravery, Nobility, Virtue", they also can be identified by their goals and their method they used to reach it.
One interesting point to be made about the John Wick movies is that they can also be read as John's journey through grief: John Wick: Denial/Anger JW Chapter 2: Anger JW Chapter 3 - Parabellum: Bargaining JW Chapter 4: Bargaining/Acceptance
I feel like it's more this way. JW1: Anger. He's pissed off at the death of his pet dog, the last closure he had from his wife. JW2: Bargaining Wanting to be left alone to mourn, he accepts Santino's order in return for Santino to finally leave him alone. JW3: Depression. He only kills his enemies to feel like he's in control, but John wants to cope through the most destructive method possible and Winston brings him out of it. JW4: Acceptance. Finally letting go, he can partake in this final mission to finally be with his wife, he finally accepts that his death as John Wick was far better than dying as the Baba Yaga.
Seeing the "man with no name" does reminds me how to tolerate the movie, seeing John Wick in it's 4th installment was sort of a hyperrealistic superhero, figuring they could've finished John wick all along w/ a sniper since John Wick 2.
I mean, maybe not "the worst", but yeah lol and not just the 4th movie. Since the beginning it was apparent that this is just action + Keanu. Everything else is a cringe fiesta, starting with Баба Яга. 🤣
No movie is perfect and they should only focus their pros, their genres to make them great. This is an [action] movie, lacking plot or realism doesn't make it a bad movie, but it makes the movie unperfect. Looks like they don't know what genres are
crazy how I could write a better essay on an action movie than on some of the books we read in English class. Not to diss on those books, most of them are really good, but these movies are so good.
Didn’t think John wick would be such a Philosophical character you made me realize that John wick was not just a killer but also a loving husband not just a cold blooded killer and that being on his tombstone is the icing on the cake to closing his character not what he was in the dark but what he was in the light
I honestly thought when I saw the thumbnail you'd go more into the Dante's Inferno mythology of the character of John Wick and how his story is similar to that of Dante's climbing deeper and deeper, getting more in-depth into the world he so eagerly wants out of, and along the way atone for his mistakes much like how he tried to do at the beginning of John Wick 3 for his actions in John Wick 2. They even make reference of Dante's Inferno at the beginning of John Wick 3 by having the literal book appear. I personally see John Wick as a modern day myth and reinterpretaion of Dante's Inferno only toned down a bit and modernized. Edit: I just got to the Dante's inferno segment of the video so my bad.
Remember in his previous life before Helen he was an associate to Russian Mafiya. He didnt always begin as this super assassin, he start from the bottom and has to prove himself. Besides, even if he only kill people who are "involved" with the crime activities, one must also consider what constitute "involvement". If he is sent to kill people like aurelio who doesnt seem to do anything other than fixing/buying stolen car for the Mafiya, or people whose crime is just being frontman sindicates (having their name used for legit business), then the punishment (the killing) isnt equal the sin.
He was in hell because he lost his wife and his faith symbolized by his first dog. His struggle to leave the occult underworld was his dark night of the soul. If you listen to the song lyrics at the end of John Wick 4, he really does end up in hell, but his beloved saves him. Truly a brilliant retelling of Dante’s inferno.
The mythology aspect is interesting as Stahelski admitted that the stair fight scene in 4 was meant to carry the same struggle to it as the tale of Sisyphus
John Wick is the greatest masculine character ever put to screen. It works because John's personality is almost exactly like Keanu Reeves. This is why we both love the Character, and the Actor who plays him. Here are some Masculine qualities which every man should aspire to have 1. A man of few words- Like Keanu, John Wick is always secure of himself. He does not need to be like Andrew Tate yapping all the time about how masculine or badass he is. All he really needs to do is be the badass he always is. 2. A man who needs no introduction- At the age of influencers who desperately promote themselves by flexing cars, clothes, and gym photos, John (like Keanu) do not even need to be introduced. Because whenever he is in any place, people already know who he is, what he is capable of, his credentials, and his accolades. In fact, if one person in that room don't know who he is? He would be the idiot. Ask Losef Tarasov 3. A man of honor who commands respect- Notice how people always gives John his respect. He has friends who are either willing to face the wrath of the table, or die trying to help him. Even that doctor was willing to take a bullet to the rib for him. While not explicitly explained, he must have done important favors to the Bowery King and Winston. We also know that John kept Sofia's daughter safe. We all know that in real life, Keanu is so nice, he will buy the whole stunt crew luxury watches just to thank them. We also see how well he is paid attention to whenever he asks for any service related to the continental. You never enjoy things like this if you are not honorable Another cool thing about John is that even those who wanna kill him can't deny his respect (With the exception or Aeries and Ms. Perkins). He is like a Boxing Champion whom everyone wants to have the chance of fighting. When they do, they will try to make it as honorable as possible, and even if they lose they will still be grateful for the opportunity. 4. He is a Man of strong determination and fortitude- What makes John Wick feared the most is not even his combat skills, but rather his exceptional commitment. No matter who you are, a powerful crime boss, the elder, or the Marquis, if John wants your life, he will cross any ocean or dessert. He will take on an army armed and armoured from head to toe. You can shoot him, stab him, strangle him, throw him off 3 stories high, or run over him. If he is still somehow alive, he will keep coming after you. The walls of the continental wont keep you safe. The rules of the table will not even protect you. We all know how Keanu committed himself to martial arts training, shooting, stunt driving. That aside, if you know the life story of Keanu Reeves, he also has faced multiple adversities. From personal losses, dealing with substance problems, at one point even everyone thought he was already washed up. But he overcame all of that and re-emerged much bigger than his Matrix fame. You can be a hitman, an actor, a businessman, or an athlete, if you develop all of these traits then you will be awesome.
When I think of John Wick I always think of the first matrix and the little girl with the spoon. “Do not try to bend the spoon, that would be impossible. Instead try to realize the truth. There is no spoon. Than you will find it is not the spoon that bends, but only yourself.
I never understood why John had to cut off his finger "to remember her" his wife, but you won't be doing much remembering when your constantly being stalked and attacked
Iirc the elder said if he wants to continue to *live* so he can continue to *remember* her, he must cast aside his weakness (his attachment) and become High Table enforcer once more. Winston and the ring both represent John's strongest attachment, his quasi-parental friendship with Winston and lost love Helen.
4 is the best, though it made many sick by the 'specialness' of armor suits was shared around. Was there a bit of redundancy.....yes, but you see that's now how the High Table fights, and lo and behold, John fights the same way. I'm content with that being it, or sticking it on another actor if they can carry Keanu's weight.....that shit is heavy. I'm dubious.
Before I go on I need everyone to swear to never tell a soul what I am about to tell you!!!!! Hey you! Over there I didnt hear you swear! I heard somewhere that Wick cant die. Because he is immortal somehow. I figured out how! Either in fighting Constantine(see what I did there 😂) or beside him he is fatally wounded but a drop of Constantines blood saves him! So basically you would have to drain him of EVERY last drop of blood to kill him.
Symbolism and balls-to-the-wall action aside, it would've been nice to get some backstory on the world where 50% of the population are assassins, and the other 50% are unfazed by strangers shooting each other dead on the street. Now, I'm normally a seasoned pro in switching my brain off and just enjoying a good action movie, but the last three movies left me with this really itchy, nagging feeling at seeing so many questions unanswered-The magical bulletproof cloth John's suit is made of blocks gunshots at point-blank range with zero blunt force trauma, so what stops him (or other assassins) from wearing balaclavas and gloves made of the same material, essentially rendering them bulletproof? _Why_ are so many people assassins? Who trains them, and how do they hide this life from the rest of society? _Do_ they hide it? Who are their targets, when even homeless vagrants on the street are armed and dangerous? I can suspend my disbelief long enough to ignore the fact that John Wick took enough physical damage to kill him hundreds of times over (getting hit by a car repeatedly is *not* something you just stand up and walk off…). But usually, action movies take place in something approaching the "real world". This is why I felt _Nobody_ took the same premise as _John Wick,_ but did it better: in addition to being more grounded, it also knew what it was and wasn't afraid to inject moments of judicious levity. The JW movies, by contrast, took themselves a bit too seriously for a setting with so many unanswered questions. *TL;DR:* I liked _John Wick_ more when it was about avenging his dog's death.
Come back from the dead, become figurehead/symbol in bowery king's war to vanquish the high table. I think its more probable than ever given that bowery king *has gone international*. Motherfucker is working to chip away at/undermine the high table's power.
Baba Yaga is a woman (kind of a which). John has been given this name as it symbolizes fear in the eyes of children, so I guess it is supposed to scare adults now (sort of like a bad mother fu..er).
I'm sorry but the narrator threw a tremendous contradiction in when stating that John was "doing what he loves" only to follow shortly after by remarking how John was doing the only thing he knew how to...
@@_KantenMaaier_ if u can provide ONE clip in ANY Wick film proving that he's "enjoying" what he's doing, I will concede. I however can provide DOZENS of clips proving that he is not.
@@_KantenMaaier_ People who ENJOY excessive masturbation don't bury their lube and spunk-rags under fresh-poured cement after each fap session do they?
@@_KantenMaaier_ I'm also fairly certain that Wick 3's backstory involves his being trained as a child. Not much of a preferential scenario for kids regarding pleasure vs duty
Would you consider doing a video essay of the 2016 movie Elle with Isabelle Huppert? I appreciate that at first glance, it might not be the type of movie that you'd normally review or that will attract a lot of viewers (French, female lead, small budget) but was highly acclaimed and there's NOTHING about it here on YT. It was shrouded in a lot of controversy and posed some really provocative questions about what modern womanhood and feminism look like (are we all still victims???) - all the more relevant in this era of the MeToo movement. Tks :)
I never hear people talking about this but one of the things I love the most about the John Wick series is how it really plays on the fact that Keanue Reeves is actually a terrible actor. He’s probably the most decent human being in Hollywood but he’s TERRIBLE at acting & he’s clearly aware of it. The whole series is obviously a nod to the 80s Action Movie Hero ridiculousness but Keanue adds something extra by really embracing his complete inability to convey any emotion in a believable way & just runs with it. Trust me once you realize he’s actually making fun of himself in A LOT of the scenes, it’s a completely different viewing experience.
In chapter 4 when he meet the manager of the Japanese continaltal he says no one, not even you, can kill everyone. This tells that John is a man who only fears the true word of almighty Allah over any worldly item and his Japanese was ready to fight against the high table to the death while knowing he will lose everything. His friend cane even try to help him to avoid a fight against the high table, but he didn't listen and was ready to die for him
Youre analogy to Jesus is not entirely accurate: Jesus went not only against the Jewish establishment, but he did so because he believed they were not following of their shared religion. So he wanted to make people follow them. John doesn't want for people to follow rules based on a shared faith with the High Table. He opposes their beliefs to begin with, which is why he follows their rules only when he's at a disadvantage or can use them for his advantage.
To be honest, I kinda agree with you, but I feel that the John Wick movies have been consistently good and have great action. It’s something that is hard to do now a days is hard. And for it’s movies getting better and better, it’s impressive
At least there is choreographies and extensive training for the Wick movies. Marvel movies only require bad jokes and standing in front of a green screen. Maybe the John Wick saga is not as tought provoking as many other films, bute they are miles above any marvel crap (with an exception for the winter soldier, that was a very good spy film)
Movies can be good in different ways, not every movie needs a Shakespearean plot. As long as the movie isn't half assed (Marvel movies now) and has some effort and soul put it into it can be enjoyable. John Wick has a lot of good cinematographic set pieces and great choreography and that can qualify as a "good" movie.
I never saw John as an antihero, he doesn't kill innocent people, he has good cause, he didn't even kill Winston when was tasked to by the high table and fought against them, even after Winston shot him to stop the fight with the high table he still helped Winston take revenge
#Keanu Reeves Synonymous with dedication and perfectionist. Concentration is the root of all man's great abilities. Actively striving to achieve a certain goal gives life meaning and substance. Those who want to win must learn to fight, persevere and suffer. Knowing is not enough, it is necessary to apply willing is not enough, you have to do." Bruce Lee I loveKeanu Reeves for being an example of character and loyalty to his essence. Because even though he is a star with a lot of fame, he is still a sensitive and humble man with everyone. Passionate about his art, he does it with great care and perfectionism! As an actor and director he is a Michelangelo of the 7th art! Expert and perfectionist, he knows how to use his canvases and he does it with extreme dedication to always give the best of himself to his fans! Your dedication and perfectionism make your art a great show that leaves us breathless! For his great love for his family and recognizes the value of friendship, because family is the basis of everything and with it you learn the bonds of loyalty, and that Keanu Reeves took to life. A handsome and attractive man, who did not trade his essence for fame, and his attitudes demonstrate his character and his care in always being honest with himself and with those around him, and that makes him more handsome than he already is! A man with a history of overcoming obstacles and who leaves us a lesson, be strong and despite the pain fight and have hope and determination and focus we can make a better world One of the videos that moved me the most was yours on the subway giving up your seat His Assistance Works are examples of his humanitarian and philanthropic character. I love your band @DogStar #KeanuReeves#JohnWick4 #Arch #Archmotorcycles
This is why I take great offense when people say that John Wick Films are just another set of action movies, there are layers in all of them.
The reason why so many people don't see it is because many of its layers are communicated through unspoken visual storytelling, and the average person was never taught or cared to learn media literacy, especially media literacy in visual storytelling.
“Rules are the only thing that separate us from the animals”
And yet it is the dogs in these movies who are consistently the most loyal and loving characters. Meanwhile all of John’s friends who play by the table’s rules betray him or allow themselves to be pitted against him.
Ok but let’s cut Caine some slack,he didn’t have to ice Koji like that but he did have to fight John,since the marquis held his kid hostage
Willem Dafriend's Marcus existed
Did you even watch the first movie
@@snax7760Koji was too arrogant
Caine litreally spared his life and just left him with a stab in his hip
After that he said Just Take Care of your daughter
But koji still tried to take down caine
@@07kaka73 True, he was a loyal friend to John, to the point of death.
@@karloaquinde3476 definitely! I even was waiting for him to betray baba or something of the like... But he never did, even in spite of literally having wick in his crosshairs at times. It was really quite refreshing, especially in the world wick inhabits
John is a professional in a society populated by amateurs. He was so before coming to work in the world of the Table and it’s clear the table saw him as someone not to be crossed given how he earned his way out. Their mistake was not leaving him alone when he killed Santino and they’ve been greatly weakened by the end of Chapter 4. I don’t think John’s actually dead, but we shall see.
I dont think they are really weakened per se, given their "hydra" analogy (since they are global conglomerate of old and powerful crime syndicates). In terms of the image of their "sacredness" or reputation among the criminals, they are weakened, but it's a matter of brand or marketing. It will only take time before their reputation is restored and their rules absolute once more.
Though I wonder if its good or not if the table's destroyed. As Winston himself noted, rules and regulations separate man from animals. If the table is ruined, the criminals will run amock attempting to fill in the power vacuum. History shows that most of the time they will only get replaced by viler more ruthless conglomeration of criminals.
@@findingnemo2089 This is completely true. Whilst the story at a surface level is cheering for John to destroy the High Table, there's plenty of evidence - both explicit and implied - that the Table is the only thing keeping these criminal gangs in check. The nature of the system means there will always be innocent victims - they are CRIMINAL gangs after all, they make money by exploiting and abusing the inncoent - but the rules the Table enforces are highly effective at restricting and regulating gang violence in such a way that bystanders outside the criminal world are barely affected when it happens.
I think the decision to show almost exclusively gangers and assassins and having civilians be little more than background NPCs is very intentional, it shows how although there is extreme violence, it is completely contained within the criminal world. If the High Table collapses, there is nothing keeping order any more and nothing stopping the gang violence from becoming the catastrophe it is in the real world.
However, there is one potential long term benefit. Though the High Table collapsing would inevitably result in bloody struggle, it would completely eliminate the ability of the criminal underworld to act in concert to protect itself. The influence of the criminals over the civilian world would weaken, and it may become possible for the forces of the state (with the scale of these gangs, the army would be better suited than the police!) to crush these criminal gangs completely. A brief period of intense carnage could lead to the system being completely broken in the long term. However, that's something I seriously doubt the series will ever go through
The point of the movie was to show that you cannot win against the table. You slay the high table's head and 3 more heads pop up and take it's place.
The only way "John" could live a peaceful life is if "John Wick" died.
John wick is dead. John may not be.
No way is John dead. He needed "Wick" the legend, to die, but John is very much alive and I can all but prove it.
Look at where he was shot.
In the arm.
Beneath the floating rib.
Upper shoulder. (Careful not to hit the clavicle.)
2 of those should sound VERY familiar. It's the same area's the doctor had him shoot after he was excommunicated...
You know, to make it look legit. 😉 Caine's no fool. It's EXACTLY where John shot HIM. (Secret code?)
Just like the new man above the table said, "The only way John Wick will know peace, is in death." Johns out there somewhere, but John Wick, loving husband, is dead. John was never afraid to die, he only wanted to carry on his wife's memory.
I feel like you kinda left something out, that being how Johns sacrifice seems to have inspired others, as the Harbinger said in JW4, if John wins the duel he’ll become a saint and it would “shake the very foundations of the High Table” I think this refers to how his actions would incite rebellion and maybe something akin to hope to other unwilling members of the assassin underworld. We saw something like this with Bowery King, he said he was “branching out” and that johns actions inspired him to do so.
Just my kind of two two cents there. Thought it makes for an interesting idea.
Plenty of "High Table" "Continental" stories to tell in the aftermath of his life.
SO many possible protagonists have already been presented.
Just a case of telling good exciting stories that involve them.
The post credit scene, where Akria crossed paths with Caine for revenge.
Harbinger? I believe you ment Mr krabs
I am so glad that you made a video pointing out the story and hidden depths. Most video essays forget the creators intented to be a anti action trope movie hence success
I think the highest showing that John Wick is Honor where his friends, even though bound to the High Table will go against it because Honor demands it
The connections between his friends is what kept him alive and accomplish his goals
Which is why I think the fifth movie should be him trying to help Akira and Caine. They helped him, it’s time for him to be something that isn’t the Baba Yaga.
@@moonmoon2479 how would he do that, hes dead lol
@@SampleGamez the boogie man is dead, John isn't.
Thank you for this video.
I see way too many people say that the movies after the first one suck because it’s all action and no plot other than “John goes full Rambo mode.” While it’s true that there is more action and stunt work in the sequels and the character journey/transformation is slower, it’s unfortunate how these people miss out on how the entire saga is John Wick’s character arc coming full circle, it doesn’t just end with the first film.
Just because he barely talks and there are very few deep and quiet moments in the sequels does not detract from his journey as an anti-hero, and how they build the foundation of the world that John dragged himself back into and how that world brings development and ultimately closure to his character. Just because there’s a lot of action and it isn’t a slow burn arthouse film, does not mean there isn’t room for good storytelling, which is why I feel John Wick is a masterclass saga: it pleases both those looking for a good story, and those who simply want fun good old blockbuster action.
I appreciate his proficient manner of speaking, I remember cringing when listening to a Marvel Movie, how much they tried to make it look relatable, at one point I sincerely wanted them to shut up about throwing Wanda a party, compare it to JW, each time they spoke, it was brief but memorable, Sommelier's way of talking about guns like how collector talks about wine, Charon's attitude and mannerism, Winston's dialogue finally setting John Wick's final arc in motion and the Russian Mob Boss literally dropping a Dante's Divine Comedy quote to him with the "The path to paradise begins in hell."
A lot of the nuance in these movies is communicated through its visual storytelling, and a lot of people don't have the media literacy to identify that sort of thing and are instead only capable of observing the most superficial, explicit layer or if deeper ideas are explicitly spoonfed to them verbally.
One additional detail from John Wick 4 that adds onto the whole mythology aspect of the series is that the grey-suited enforcers in the Osaka fight are known as the “Myrmidons," as stated by Chidi's actor Marko Zaror in an interview.
The Myrmidons were well-armored elite soldiers who served Achilles during the Trojan war.
This video made me realize that another installment isn’t necessary. Go out on top. It all makes sense archetypally, just leave it as it is.
Just like the rock band Oasis. I am glad they disband before they running out of idea and start making shitty music
@ahmad wajeeh hopefully the next one wont attempt to one up the previous one again. Its cool that it has reach this point and still feel fresh, but, at some point it will become stale or make zero sense/ break suspension of disbelief too blatantly. I hope they only continue when they got something new to offer us. Maybe a deeper delve into the myth of John Wick.
Mr reeves said hello to me one day two year's ago it made my year, no it made all my years, John wick is one of my favourite movies and i love your talks on movies as it explains movies even better so well done.
Never saw the similarities with Dante's inferno and his journey until now when you speak of John Wick
Same, it's really interesting
Dante’s Inferno is a MASTERPIECE!!! Just watched the fourth movie and the fact it opened with the inscription on the gate of hell had me hyped!!!
Really interesting analysis! Apart from the outstanding choreography this movies have, what has kept me coming back to this series is the world building, I'm looking forward to what they'll do with the new movie and Continental series.
Continental series?
@@an-animal-lover Yeah! I heard they are making a prequel series about the hotel
@@zpkspiano been made, Mel Gibson is in, it is set in 70 with younger Winston
A little detail that changes a lot : you can cross "They" in your sentance if it stands for "Those who made the movies we are fond of".
I wouldn't really classify John Wick as an antihero. The three traits of the literary/film hero are "Bravery, Nobility, Virtue" and to be an antihero you have to break 1 or more of these traits. But in a world where seemingly everyone is either an assassin or works for assassins, John is probably the bravest, most noble and most virtuous character in all 4 films.
The only thing that makes john antihero is that his entire fuel is just revenge. He doesn't have higher goal/ ideal to champion in, he is a wildfire burning everything in his wake. The name "wick" describe him perfectly, someone sets him off and he just go bang bang bang.
What makes a character an anti-hero is not just only with their lacks of heroic traits of "Bravery, Nobility, Virtue", they also can be identified by their goals and their method they used to reach it.
I will proudly say that John Wick Chapter 4 is the best of the franchise and a true end to a beloved and dedicated individual.
One interesting point to be made about the John Wick movies is that they can also be read as John's journey through grief:
John Wick: Denial/Anger
JW Chapter 2: Anger
JW Chapter 3 - Parabellum: Bargaining
JW Chapter 4: Bargaining/Acceptance
I feel like it's more this way.
JW1: Anger.
He's pissed off at the death of his pet dog, the last closure he had from his wife.
JW2: Bargaining
Wanting to be left alone to mourn, he accepts Santino's order in return for Santino to finally leave him alone.
JW3: Depression.
He only kills his enemies to feel like he's in control, but John wants to cope through the most destructive method possible and Winston brings him out of it.
JW4: Acceptance.
Finally letting go, he can partake in this final mission to finally be with his wife, he finally accepts that his death as John Wick was far better than dying as the Baba Yaga.
Seeing the "man with no name" does reminds me how to tolerate the movie, seeing John Wick in it's 4th installment was sort of a hyperrealistic superhero, figuring they could've finished John wick all along w/ a sniper since John Wick 2.
This was an outstanding analysis. You provided a whole other aspect of appreciation for this film series.
I’ve always saw John Wick as a man trying to find peace in a world that declares war on him. So he obliged them.
Meanwhile someone is saying JW4 is the worst film, too long, too generic, too violent, too unrealistic, too shallow, story no depth, ... bla bla
I mean, maybe not "the worst", but yeah lol and not just the 4th movie. Since the beginning it was apparent that this is just action + Keanu. Everything else is a cringe fiesta, starting with Баба Яга. 🤣
@@TheDarkAngel3579 bro what? It’s literally an action film. It’s supposed to have action.
No movie is perfect and they should only focus their pros, their genres to make them great. This is an [action] movie, lacking plot or realism doesn't make it a bad movie, but it makes the movie unperfect. Looks like they don't know what genres are
@@TheDarkAngel3579 what are you doing here then bro
Chapter 4 is actually the best one… objectively speaking
You gave me a whole new appreciation for the franchise. A thematic reason to rewatch but with a new lens. Thank you and great analysis.
crazy how I could write a better essay on an action movie than on some of the books we read in English class. Not to diss on those books, most of them are really good, but these movies are so good.
Didn’t think John wick would be such a Philosophical character you made me realize that John wick was not just a killer but also a loving husband not just a cold blooded killer and that being on his tombstone is the icing on the cake to closing his character not what he was in the dark but what he was in the light
That thumbnail went so hard, seeing all of the John Wick movies with the same type of posters are so cool. Where can i get it for download?
You are really very skilled at this movie analysis thing. Thank you. Keep up the good work.
Life is suffering.
Giving life does not equate to peace.
Giving genuine kindness/empathy, and respect/consideration to others is the road to peace.
A well made content! Made me love all of the John Wick movies even more. Well done man! 👍🏼
That was a very good breakdown with comparisons to mythology and religion, thank you
Brilliant analysis. I hope there's a Chapter 5 where John resurrects thus completing the Christ parallel.
Great literary interpretations! Well done!
Brilliant analysis! Thank you for making it!
Subbed, awesome analysis of one of my favorite action franchises next to the Mission Impossible films and Bourne Identity films.
Thank you for this interesting and thought provoking review of the John Wick series. 👍🏾👍🙂
@Life Is A Story Love your perspective. The video is only 12 minutes long, but it touches on the most important and humane aspects of John Wick.
John dies, then spends 4 movies in hell forced to repeat his sins and watch his friends die. Then he has to let go and die again to leave hell.
I honestly thought when I saw the thumbnail you'd go more into the Dante's Inferno mythology of the character of John Wick and how his story is similar to that of Dante's climbing deeper and deeper, getting more in-depth into the world he so eagerly wants out of, and along the way atone for his mistakes much like how he tried to do at the beginning of John Wick 3 for his actions in John Wick 2. They even make reference of Dante's Inferno at the beginning of John Wick 3 by having the literal book appear. I personally see John Wick as a modern day myth and reinterpretaion of Dante's Inferno only toned down a bit and modernized.
Edit: I just got to the Dante's inferno segment of the video so my bad.
Thank you
I'd put a request in, but I'd rather get a good video essay about something I haven't seen and discover a gem. :)
He’s the Boogie Man Killer, the one the Boogie Man fears.
I never thought once John was going to hell he was killing nothing but goons and bullies
Remember in his previous life before Helen he was an associate to Russian Mafiya. He didnt always begin as this super assassin, he start from the bottom and has to prove himself.
Besides, even if he only kill people who are "involved" with the crime activities, one must also consider what constitute "involvement". If he is sent to kill people like aurelio who doesnt seem to do anything other than fixing/buying stolen car for the Mafiya, or people whose crime is just being frontman sindicates (having their name used for legit business), then the punishment (the killing) isnt equal the sin.
He was in hell because he lost his wife and his faith symbolized by his first dog. His struggle to leave the occult underworld was his dark night of the soul. If you listen to the song lyrics at the end of John Wick 4, he really does end up in hell, but his beloved saves him. Truly a brilliant retelling of Dante’s inferno.
This is a wonderful analysis! I'm so glad I found it!
The mythology aspect is interesting as Stahelski admitted that the stair fight scene in 4 was meant to carry the same struggle to it as the tale of Sisyphus
Everything is so cool the first trailer is so much cooler than I thought✨✨😎
I believe John wick 4 in addition paralleling Dantes ascension to heaven also parallels the story of Orpheus
Great work bro
nice analysis, keep it up!
John Wick is the greatest masculine character ever put to screen. It works because John's personality is almost exactly like Keanu Reeves. This is why we both love the Character, and the Actor who plays him. Here are some Masculine qualities which every man should aspire to have
1. A man of few words- Like Keanu, John Wick is always secure of himself. He does not need to be like Andrew Tate yapping all the time about how masculine or badass he is. All he really needs to do is be the badass he always is.
2. A man who needs no introduction- At the age of influencers who desperately promote themselves by flexing cars, clothes, and gym photos, John (like Keanu) do not even need to be introduced. Because whenever he is in any place, people already know who he is, what he is capable of, his credentials, and his accolades. In fact, if one person in that room don't know who he is? He would be the idiot. Ask Losef Tarasov
3. A man of honor who commands respect- Notice how people always gives John his respect. He has friends who are either willing to face the wrath of the table, or die trying to help him. Even that doctor was willing to take a bullet to the rib for him. While not explicitly explained, he must have done important favors to the Bowery King and Winston. We also know that John kept Sofia's daughter safe. We all know that in real life, Keanu is so nice, he will buy the whole stunt crew luxury watches just to thank them.
We also see how well he is paid attention to whenever he asks for any service related to the continental. You never enjoy things like this if you are not honorable
Another cool thing about John is that even those who wanna kill him can't deny his respect (With the exception or Aeries and Ms. Perkins). He is like a Boxing Champion whom everyone wants to have the chance of fighting. When they do, they will try to make it as honorable as possible, and even if they lose they will still be grateful for the opportunity.
4. He is a Man of strong determination and fortitude- What makes John Wick feared the most is not even his combat skills, but rather his exceptional commitment. No matter who you are, a powerful crime boss, the elder, or the Marquis, if John wants your life, he will cross any ocean or dessert. He will take on an army armed and armoured from head to toe. You can shoot him, stab him, strangle him, throw him off 3 stories high, or run over him. If he is still somehow alive, he will keep coming after you. The walls of the continental wont keep you safe. The rules of the table will not even protect you.
We all know how Keanu committed himself to martial arts training, shooting, stunt driving. That aside, if you know the life story of Keanu Reeves, he also has faced multiple adversities. From personal losses, dealing with substance problems, at one point even everyone thought he was already washed up. But he overcame all of that and re-emerged much bigger than his Matrix fame.
You can be a hitman, an actor, a businessman, or an athlete, if you develop all of these traits then you will be awesome.
Wonderful writing!
1 was the best 2 had the most/best world building 3 was the most creative and 4 had the best combat
When I think of John Wick
I always think of the first matrix and the little girl with the spoon.
“Do not try to bend the spoon, that would be impossible. Instead try to realize the truth. There is no spoon. Than you will find it is not the spoon that bends, but only yourself.
Is Leon Kennedy an anti-hero? He seems pretty straightforwardly heroic
No he is a hero
If he will be an anti-hero, he's probably gonna derail from the government system or something.
Well, Leon S. Kennedy is a hero .
But, I am confused about which Leon he is talking?
outstanding analysis, really loved the Biblical elements
Excellent analysis!
Can’t wait for John Wick five where he has to reenact Dante’s Inferno
HAHAHAHAHAH I love that you said the High Table is the IRS.
Really awesome symbolical and christian analysis.
Ah yes the christian IRS 😂
John Wick is a four-part prequel to the greater Wickverse i guess? post-John world where assasins with conscience taking off from the high table
Im curious, where did you get the poster for chapter 3 and 4 in the thumbnail? Im trying to use it as a scrensaver and can't find it anywhere
Very cool
Great analysis
No homo. But I love you for expressing & pointing out amazing symbology.
I never understood why John had to cut off his finger "to remember her" his wife, but you won't be doing much remembering when your constantly being stalked and attacked
Iirc the elder said if he wants to continue to *live* so he can continue to *remember* her, he must cast aside his weakness (his attachment) and become High Table enforcer once more. Winston and the ring both represent John's strongest attachment, his quasi-parental friendship with Winston and lost love Helen.
Good insight, the way they spoke between lines was very ambiguous at times.
6:06 “this is going to be cake. Let’s get going.”
@Life Is A Story This is the first time I've heard a western UA-camr say 'baba Yaga' correctly, thank you!
I have a question, what if they bring John back how would that change the character?
If you're gonna cite the man with no name you gotta cite Sanjuro
Believe me Rocky bhai is somewhere around that level too
Bruh i didnt realise there are many biblical refferences
the best story about JW is that......
THE VILLAINS are scared of THE PROTAGONIST#JOHNWICK😎😎!!
Meanwhile a lot of us are waiting for jw5 between 25-26 because we know the truth about Mr Wick 😉
I thought staircase scene was related to Sisyphus
RIP mr. Wick
4 is the best, though it made many sick by the 'specialness' of armor suits was shared around. Was there a bit of redundancy.....yes, but you see that's now how the High Table fights, and lo and behold, John fights the same way.
I'm content with that being it, or sticking it on another actor if they can carry Keanu's weight.....that shit is heavy. I'm dubious.
What movie is the first scene of this video?
What was the thumbnail?
6:05 a payday 2 reference? Isnthat actually in the movie?
Before I go on I need everyone to swear to never tell a soul what I am about to tell you!!!!! Hey you! Over there I didnt hear you swear! I heard somewhere that Wick cant die. Because he is immortal somehow. I figured out how! Either in fighting Constantine(see what I did there 😂) or beside him he is fatally wounded but a drop of Constantines blood saves him! So basically you would have to drain him of EVERY last drop of blood to kill him.
The thumbnail has 2 and 3 swapped.
MoistCr1TiKal, John Wick, and Jesus...
The Prophecized Triad.
i dont think johns a hero, or a villain. Hes just a dude, dug himself a hole doing what he thaught was right and dug himself out of it.
Bro what you know he didn't die yet right
Symbolism and balls-to-the-wall action aside, it would've been nice to get some backstory on the world where 50% of the population are assassins, and the other 50% are unfazed by strangers shooting each other dead on the street. Now, I'm normally a seasoned pro in switching my brain off and just enjoying a good action movie, but the last three movies left me with this really itchy, nagging feeling at seeing so many questions unanswered-The magical bulletproof cloth John's suit is made of blocks gunshots at point-blank range with zero blunt force trauma, so what stops him (or other assassins) from wearing balaclavas and gloves made of the same material, essentially rendering them bulletproof? _Why_ are so many people assassins? Who trains them, and how do they hide this life from the rest of society? _Do_ they hide it? Who are their targets, when even homeless vagrants on the street are armed and dangerous?
I can suspend my disbelief long enough to ignore the fact that John Wick took enough physical damage to kill him hundreds of times over (getting hit by a car repeatedly is *not* something you just stand up and walk off…). But usually, action movies take place in something approaching the "real world". This is why I felt _Nobody_ took the same premise as _John Wick,_ but did it better: in addition to being more grounded, it also knew what it was and wasn't afraid to inject moments of judicious levity. The JW movies, by contrast, took themselves a bit too seriously for a setting with so many unanswered questions.
*TL;DR:* I liked _John Wick_ more when it was about avenging his dog's death.
He loves dogs!!!
Does this mean we're getting a John Wick 5 where John comes back like Jesus?
Well I hope so, no way he is really dead.
Come back from the dead, become figurehead/symbol in bowery king's war to vanquish the high table.
I think its more probable than ever given that bowery king *has gone international*. Motherfucker is working to chip away at/undermine the high table's power.
I hovered over this video's thumbnail and, instead of John Wick, I saw a plate of disgusting vegan food. Yuck.
4:19 that's such a fucking stupid selling point lmao
I would say it uses themes of Christian theology, not Christian mythology
Baba Yaga is a woman (kind of a which). John has been given this name as it symbolizes fear in the eyes of children, so I guess it is supposed to scare adults now (sort of like a bad mother fu..er).
I'm sorry but the narrator threw a tremendous contradiction in when stating that John was "doing what he loves" only to follow shortly after by remarking how John was doing the only thing he knew how to...
I get what ur saying but that doesn't have to be a contradiction. It's not like u cant enjoy the only thing u know how to do.
@@_KantenMaaier_ if u can provide ONE clip in ANY Wick film proving that he's "enjoying" what he's doing, I will concede.
I however can provide DOZENS of clips proving that he is not.
@@_KantenMaaier_ People who ENJOY excessive masturbation don't bury their lube and spunk-rags under fresh-poured cement after each fap session do they?
@@versetripn6631 i didnt say he enjoyed it, that wasn't my point
@@_KantenMaaier_ I'm also fairly certain that Wick 3's backstory involves his being trained as a child.
Not much of a preferential scenario for kids regarding pleasure vs duty
Would you consider doing a video essay of the 2016 movie Elle with Isabelle Huppert? I appreciate that at first glance, it might not be the type of movie that you'd normally review or that will attract a lot of viewers (French, female lead, small budget) but was highly acclaimed and there's NOTHING about it here on YT. It was shrouded in a lot of controversy and posed some really provocative questions about what modern womanhood and feminism look like (are we all still victims???) - all the more relevant in this era of the MeToo movement. Tks :)
@10:40 Never realized that so many media borrow the quote taken from the Bible (Luke 17:33, Luke 9:24, and Matthew 10:39).
I never hear people talking about this but one of the things I love the most about the John Wick series is how it really plays on the fact that Keanue Reeves is actually a terrible actor. He’s probably the most decent human being in Hollywood but he’s TERRIBLE at acting & he’s clearly aware of it. The whole series is obviously a nod to the 80s Action Movie Hero ridiculousness but Keanue adds something extra by really embracing his complete inability to convey any emotion in a believable way & just runs with it.
Trust me once you realize he’s actually making fun of himself in A LOT of the scenes, it’s a completely different viewing experience.
Christianity is not mythologie
What jesus film was that?
The passion of Christ, I believe.
In chapter 4 when he meet the manager of the Japanese continaltal he says no one, not even you, can kill everyone. This tells that John is a man who only fears the true word of almighty Allah over any worldly item and his Japanese was ready to fight against the high table to the death while knowing he will lose everything. His friend cane even try to help him to avoid a fight against the high table, but he didn't listen and was ready to die for him
Youre analogy to Jesus is not entirely accurate: Jesus went not only against the Jewish establishment, but he did so because he believed they were not following of their shared religion. So he wanted to make people follow them. John doesn't want for people to follow rules based on a shared faith with the High Table. He opposes their beliefs to begin with, which is why he follows their rules only when he's at a disadvantage or can use them for his advantage.
First!!
Last
@@luxiusilluminus2844 Loser! ( Woo Hooo!!!! First!!)
I don't think he's the best anti-hero of modern film.
Honestly, the movies aren't that good
To be honest, I kinda agree with you, but I feel that the John Wick movies have been consistently good and have great action. It’s something that is hard to do now a days is hard. And for it’s movies getting better and better, it’s impressive
@@thepatriot7429 You make a good point
Lol, what do you expect from the movie? Teen drama and life lessons? It's an action film.
@@kaelthunderhoof5619 As an action film, it's ok at best.
@@meltz911 The ratings and box office results speaks otherwise
John wick? Lol I hope people don’t remember these movies as “good” , those movies along with marvel are movie diabetes
At least there is choreographies and extensive training for the Wick movies. Marvel movies only require bad jokes and standing in front of a green screen.
Maybe the John Wick saga is not as tought provoking as many other films, bute they are miles above any marvel crap (with an exception for the winter soldier, that was a very good spy film)
Still better than the movies YOU make.
Oh wait. You are a talentless nobody with a keyboard who CANT create shit.
Movies can be good in different ways, not every movie needs a Shakespearean plot. As long as the movie isn't half assed (Marvel movies now) and has some effort and soul put it into it can be enjoyable. John Wick has a lot of good cinematographic set pieces and great choreography and that can qualify as a "good" movie.
I never saw John as an antihero, he doesn't kill innocent people, he has good cause, he didn't even kill Winston when was tasked to by the high table and fought against them, even after Winston shot him to stop the fight with the high table he still helped Winston take revenge
Can I get a link to the thumbnail??
#Keanu Reeves Synonymous with dedication and perfectionist.
Concentration is the root of all man's great abilities.
Actively striving to achieve a certain goal gives life meaning and substance.
Those who want to win must learn to fight, persevere and suffer.
Knowing is not enough, it is necessary to apply willing is not enough, you have to do." Bruce Lee
I loveKeanu Reeves for being an example of character and loyalty to his essence. Because even though he is a star with a lot of fame, he is still a sensitive and humble man with everyone.
Passionate about his art, he does it with great care and perfectionism! As an actor and director he is a Michelangelo of the 7th art! Expert and perfectionist, he knows how to use his canvases and he does it with extreme dedication to always give the best of himself to his fans! Your dedication and perfectionism make your art a great show that leaves us breathless!
For his great love for his family and recognizes the value of friendship, because family is the basis of everything and with it you learn the bonds of loyalty, and that Keanu Reeves took to life.
A handsome and attractive man, who did not trade his essence for fame, and his attitudes demonstrate his character and his care in always being honest with himself and with those around him, and that makes him more handsome than he already is!
A man with a history of overcoming obstacles and who leaves us a lesson, be strong and despite the pain fight and have hope and determination and focus we can make a better world
One of the videos that moved me the most was yours on the subway giving up your seat
His Assistance Works are examples of his humanitarian and philanthropic character.
I love your band @DogStar #KeanuReeves#JohnWick4
#Arch
#Archmotorcycles