The Best John Wick Movie Has The Lowest Rotten Tomatoes Score: A Critical Analysis

Luna Greco

5 min read

Post on May 11, 2025

4.9

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Action Sequences: Elevating the Gun-Fu Genre

Chapter 2 isn't just more action; it's better action. The film elevates the already impressive gun-fu style of the first film to new heights.

Innovation in Fight Choreography

The fight choreography in Chapter 2 is significantly more complex and innovative than its predecessor. It's not just about the sheer number of bullets fired; it's about the intricate weaving of gunplay with hand-to-hand combat, creating a breathtaking ballet of violence.

• The extended library fight: This sequence showcases a masterful blend of close-quarters combat and creative weapon usage, utilizing bookshelves and other environmental elements to add layers of complexity and excitement to the action.
• Diverse weaponry: Chapter 2 expands the arsenal beyond just guns. We see more use of knives, melee weapons, and even a pencil used as a deadly instrument, showcasing the versatility of John Wick's skills and adding unexpected twists to the fight choreography.
• Increased stakes: The fights feel more consequential, with higher stakes and more brutal outcomes. This intensifies the visceral thrill of the action sequences and makes them more engaging.

Expansion of the World

Beyond the breathtaking action, Chapter 2 significantly expands the John Wick universe. This is a crucial element often overlooked when assessing the film’s overall quality.

• Introduction of the High Table: This powerful, shadowy organization adds a layer of intrigue and depth to the already compelling narrative, establishing a wider, more complex world with far-reaching consequences for John Wick's actions.
• Global Reach: The film takes John Wick beyond the confines of New York, showing the global reach of the assassin underworld, expanding the possibilities for future installments of the franchise.
• New Characters and Locations: Chapter 2 introduces memorable supporting characters and vibrant new locations, enriching the overall experience and adding layers of complexity to the narrative.

Narrative Depth and Character Development: Beyond the Gunplay

While the action is undeniably a highlight, Chapter 2 also offers a more nuanced and emotionally resonant narrative than its predecessor.

Exploring John Wick's Past and Motivations

Chapter 2 delves deeper into John Wick's backstory, providing crucial context for his actions and motivations. It explores the emotional toll of his past and fuels his present choices.

• The death of Helen: The lingering grief over the loss of his wife fuels his actions and provides an emotional anchor to the often extreme violence.
• The betrayal and consequences: We see more clearly the ramifications of John's decision to rejoin the assassin world, highlighting the tragic consequences of his choices and adding depth to his character arc.
• Relationship with Cassian: This relationship serves to further illustrate the complex moral dilemmas that John faces and the personal sacrifices he makes.

Development of Supporting Characters

Chapter 2 gives significant screen time and development to supporting characters, creating more engaging and well-rounded figures who are not just plot devices.

• Cassian's compelling storyline: This character provides a morally ambiguous foil to John Wick, adding depth and complexity to the storyline.
• Sofia's introduction: The formidable Sofia introduces a new perspective on the assassin world and provides a fascinating dynamic with John Wick.
• Character Arcs: These characters aren't just there to die; they have significant arcs, enhancing the overall impact of the narrative and making the story more emotionally resonant.

The Rotten Tomatoes Paradox: Why Scores Don't Tell the Whole Story

The comparatively lower Rotten Tomatoes score for John Wick: Chapter 2 presents a paradox. Why does a film with superior action and narrative receive a lower score than its predecessors? This speaks to the limitations of relying solely on aggregate scores.

Subjectivity of Reviews

Film criticism, by its very nature, is subjective. What one critic considers a flaw, another might view as a strength. Rotten Tomatoes scores, while useful, are just one data point and should not be the sole determinant of a film’s quality.

The Influence of Hype and Expectations

Pre-release hype and audience expectations can heavily influence both audience and critic reception. The later films may have benefited from built-up anticipation, influencing reviews positively.

Different Critical Lenses

Critics approach films with different perspectives and priorities. Some might value spectacle over narrative depth; others might prioritize character development over action sequences. This diversity of critical lenses inevitably leads to varied ratings.

Conclusion: Reassessing the "Best" John Wick Movie: A Case for Chapter 2

In conclusion, while John Wick: Chapter 2 may have a lower Rotten Tomatoes score than other films in the franchise, a closer look reveals its superior action sequences, deeper narrative, and significant world-building. The film's success transcends a simple numerical rating, demonstrating the limitations of relying solely on aggregate scores like Rotten Tomatoes when assessing film quality. We encourage you to rewatch John Wick: Chapter 2 with a fresh perspective. Do you agree that it is, in fact, the best John Wick film? Share your thoughts and your favorite John Wick movie in the comments below!