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

Luna Greco

6 min read

Post on May 12, 2025

4.8

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The Limitations of the High Table Narrative

The increasingly large-scale conflicts involving the High Table, while visually stunning, present some potential drawbacks for John Wick 5.

Over-the-Top Scale

The escalating stakes risk diminishing returns. Each new chapter amplifies the conflict, potentially overshadowing the core elements that made the first film so successful.

• Risk of diminishing returns: The sheer scale of the High Table conflicts could lead to a sense of fatigue, making the stakes feel less impactful with each iteration. The constant escalation might dilute the emotional weight of the narrative.
• Difficulty maintaining intimacy: The sprawling nature of the High Table conflicts can make it difficult to maintain the intimate, character-driven feel that defined the earlier films. The focus shifts from John's personal struggles to a larger-than-life battle, potentially alienating fans who appreciate the series' more personal moments.
• Plot complexity overwhelming action: Overly complex plots involving numerous international players and intricate power dynamics can overshadow the visceral action sequences and character development that are crucial to the franchise's success. The intricate web of alliances and betrayals might become too convoluted for viewers to follow.

Character Focus Dilution

The vastness of the High Table narrative risks diluting the focus on John Wick himself. While the world-building is impressive, it shouldn't come at the expense of the character who drives the story.

• Less screen time for John's struggles: Expanding the world could mean less screen time dedicated to exploring John's personal motivations and internal conflicts. This could impact the emotional resonance with the audience.
• Reduced emotional impact: A less focused narrative might weaken the emotional impact of John's journey, diminishing the audience's connection to his plight. The personal stakes might get lost in the larger narrative.
• Need for a character-driven return: The success of the original John Wick film stemmed from its intimate, character-driven story. A return to this formula could revitalize the franchise and recapture the magic of the original.

A More Grounded Approach for John Wick 5

A more grounded approach for John Wick 5, focusing on a personal vendetta, offers a compelling alternative to the ever-expanding High Table saga.

Focusing on Personal Vengeance

A narrative focused on a smaller-scale, personal conflict could provide a more impactful and emotionally resonant experience.

• Smaller-scale conflict: A targeted conflict, perhaps centered around a specific betrayal or a threat to someone close to John, would allow for a more intimate and emotionally charged narrative. This would allow for more focus on character development and compelling fight choreography.
• Exploration of past relationships: Delving into John's past relationships and unresolved conflicts could add emotional depth and complexity to the character, creating a more compelling and relatable protagonist. This could involve exploring his past life before becoming the legendary hitman.
• Opportunity for emotional depth: A more personal conflict allows for greater exploration of John's emotional landscape, potentially leading to a more nuanced and captivating story. This would allow for more moments of vulnerability and introspection.

Introducing a New, Credible Threat

A compelling antagonist, separate from the High Table, can provide a fresh and exciting direction for the franchise.

• A powerful individual seeking revenge: This antagonist could be someone with a personal vendetta against John, providing a more personal and emotionally driven conflict. This could be a former associate or a family member of someone John killed.
• A rival assassin organization: Introducing a rival organization operating outside the High Table's influence could offer new dynamics and possibilities for thrilling action sequences. This would allow for exploration of different fighting styles and weaponry.
• A personal enemy with a deep connection: A deeply personal connection between John and his enemy would amplify the emotional stakes of the conflict, making the narrative more compelling. This would create a high emotional impact on the audience.

Maintaining the John Wick Essence

A more grounded narrative doesn't necessitate sacrificing the signature elements that define the John Wick franchise.

Preserving the Signature Action

The iconic gun-fu and close-quarters combat are integral to the series' appeal and can be maintained even within a smaller-scale conflict.

• Maintaining innovative gun-fu: The innovative gun-fu and close-quarters combat sequences can be just as spectacular in a more contained environment. The focus would shift from the sheer number of enemies to the quality and choreography of the action.
• Creative action set pieces: Even a smaller-scale conflict can offer opportunities for creative and innovative action set pieces. The focus would be on creative use of environment and more intricate fight choreography.
• Visceral impact and choreography: The visceral impact and precise choreography of the fight scenes can be preserved and even enhanced by focusing on quality over quantity.

Strengthening Character Relationships

A more personal narrative provides opportunities to deepen John's connections with existing characters or introduce new, compelling ones.

• Exploring bonds with allies: The narrative can explore the bonds between John and his allies, such as Winston and Charon, adding emotional depth to their relationships. This will add a dimension to the supporting characters that enhances the emotional experience for the audience.
• Developing new relationships: Introducing new characters with unique relationships to John can add layers to the story, providing opportunities for unexpected alliances and betrayals.
• Emotional depth in relationships: Allowing for greater emotional depth in these relationships creates opportunities for more nuanced character interactions and a richer narrative overall.

Conclusion

While the expansive world of the High Table has provided exciting possibilities, John Wick 5 could benefit immensely from a return to a more intimate, character-driven narrative. By focusing on a personal vendetta and introducing a compelling, grounded threat, the film can preserve the series' signature stylish action while deepening the emotional core of the story. A more personal approach could revitalize the franchise and reignite the audience's connection to John Wick. Are you excited about the potential for a more grounded John Wick 5? Share your thoughts on a less High Table-centric John Wick 5 in the comments below!