John Wick 5: Forget The High Table, A More Grounded Mission

Luna Greco

4 min read

Post on May 11, 2025

4.4

Share

The Limitations of the Expanding High Table Mythology

The intricate workings of the High Table, while initially intriguing, have become increasingly complex. This expansive world, filled with layers of rules, hierarchies, and shadowy organizations, might be reaching a point of narrative fatigue.

• Overly Complex Plot: The sheer complexity of the High Table's inner workings risks overshadowing John Wick's personal struggles, potentially confusing viewers and diluting the emotional impact of the story.
• Diluted Focus: The sheer scale of the High Table's influence could overshadow John Wick's personal struggles, diminishing the emotional core of the franchise.
• Improved Audience Engagement: A simpler, more grounded narrative might actually improve audience engagement by sharpening the focus on John Wick himself and his relationships.
• Shifting Priorities: Focusing on character relationships rather than sprawling world-building would allow for deeper emotional connections with the audience, leading to a more satisfying viewing experience.

The previous films' increasingly complex plots, involving global assassin networks and intricate power struggles, have at times detracted from the core elements that made the first John Wick film so captivating: its visceral action and the compelling character of John himself. A simpler narrative could reignite the initial spark.

A More Personal, Character-Driven Approach

A more personal, character-driven approach in John Wick 5 could revitalize the franchise. Shifting the focus from the vast High Table mythology to John Wick's internal struggles and relationships would offer a refreshing change.

• Deeper Exploration of John Wick's Past: Delving deeper into John Wick's past, beyond the revenge plotline, could reveal new layers of complexity and understanding to his character, providing stronger motivations for his actions.
• Strengthening Existing Relationships: Developing existing relationships with Winston and Charon, exploring their shifting loyalties and complicated bonds with John, could add emotional depth to the narrative.
• Compelling New Antagonist: Introducing a new antagonist with a direct personal connection to John Wick would raise the emotional stakes and provide a more intimate conflict.
• Relatable Internal Conflicts: Focusing on John Wick's internal conflicts, his emotional growth, and his struggles with his past would allow audiences to connect with him on a deeper level, making him more relatable and sympathetic.

By emphasizing character development and emotional depth, John Wick 5 could create a more resonant and impactful story, appealing to a broader audience.

The Benefits of a More Grounded Action Style

A shift towards a more grounded action style in John Wick 5 could enhance the visceral impact of the fight sequences.

• Practical Fight Choreography: A return to practical fight choreography, minimizing reliance on CGI and emphasizing the skill of the actors, would create a more realistic and intense experience.
• Smaller-Scale Action Set Pieces: Focusing on smaller-scale, more intimate action set pieces, rather than large-scale, explosive battles, would heighten the tension and emotional impact of each encounter.
• Brutal Realism: Emphasizing the brutal realism and physicality of the hand-to-hand combat would make the action sequences more impactful and memorable.
• Exploration of New Settings: A more grounded approach could provide the opportunity to explore different settings and action styles, keeping the action fresh and engaging, while retaining the core elements that make John Wick unique.

By prioritizing practical effects and intense, intimate fight choreography, John Wick 5 could deliver a more visceral and emotionally resonant action experience.

Potential Story Arcs for a Grounded John Wick 5

Several compelling story arcs could fit a more grounded approach:

• Personal Betrayal: John Wick confronting a devastating betrayal from someone he trusted deeply.
• Protecting a Loved One: John Wick fiercely protecting a loved one from a dangerous threat, forcing him to confront his past and his inner demons.
• Quest for Redemption: John Wick embarking on a personal quest for redemption, attempting to atone for past actions and find peace.

These storylines would allow for a more intimate and character-focused narrative, moving away from the expansive world of the High Table and focusing instead on John Wick's personal journey.

Conclusion

While the High Table's expansive world has provided the backdrop for the John Wick saga, a shift towards a more grounded, character-driven narrative in John Wick 5 could revitalize the franchise. By focusing on personal relationships, emotional stakes, and intense, visceral action, a more intimate approach could deliver a fresh and engaging experience that appeals to both longtime fans and new viewers. Are you ready for a more grounded John Wick experience? Share your thoughts on a potential shift away from the High Table and towards a more personal story in the comments below! Let's discuss the possibilities of a more intimate and grounded John Wick 5.