Action movies have always been a favorite among moviegoers, and the John Wick franchise has brought back the old-school muscular filmmaking with modern polish. The franchise’s creative team, including former Matrix stunt guys turned directors Chad Stahelski and David Leitch, have booted the shaky cam and manic edits that have plagued American action movies to the curb, reviving the genre with crisp, clear camera work where you can see the stunts, punches, and gunfights.
Since John Wick’s 2014 high-concept debut, Keanu Reeves has become a household name for his portrayal of the ex-assassin who seeks revenge for his dead wife-gifted puppy. The franchise’s worldbuilding is amusingly absurd, populated with colorful characters like Lance Reddick, Ian McShane, Laurence Fishburne, and much more.
With Chapter 4 releasing soon, we’re ranking the John Wick movies by Tomatometer. Here are the rankings:
1. John Wick: Chapter 4
Adjusted Score: 100878%
Critics Consensus: John Wick: Chapter 4 piles on more of everything — and suggests that when it comes to a well-dressed Keanu Reeves dispatching his enemies in lethally balletic style, there can never be too much.
Synopsis: John Wick (Keanu Reeves) uncovers a path to defeating The High Table. But before he can earn his freedom, Wick…
2. John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum
Adjusted Score: 109158%
Critics Consensus: John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum reloads for another hard-hitting round of the brilliantly choreographed, over-the-top action that fans of the franchise demand.
Synopsis: After gunning down a member of the High Table — the shadowy international assassin’s guild — legendary hit man John…
3. John Wick: Chapter 2
Adjusted Score: 108378%
Critics Consensus: John Wick: Chapter 2 does what a sequel should — which in this case means doubling down on the non-stop, thrillingly choreographed action that made its predecessor so much fun.
Synopsis: Retired super-assassin John Wick’s plans to resume a quiet civilian life are cut short when Italian gangster Santino D’Antonio shows…
4. John Wick
Adjusted Score: 94502%
Critics Consensus: Stylish, thrilling, and giddily kinetic, John Wick serves as a satisfying return to action for Keanu Reeves — and what looks like it could be the first of a franchise.
Synopsis: Legendary assassin John Wick (Keanu Reeves) retired from his violent career after marrying the love of his life. Her sudden…
The franchise’s success can be attributed to its unique blend of old-school action with modern filmmaking techniques. The fight scenes are brilliantly choreographed, and the camera work captures every move with precision. The franchise’s worldbuilding is also a standout feature, with each film adding new layers to the story and introducing new characters.
Keanu Reeves’ portrayal of John Wick has also been a major factor in the franchise’s success. His stoic yet charismatic performance has made him a fan favorite, and his dedication to the role is evident in his commitment to performing his own stunts.
Overall, the John Wick franchise has revitalized the action genre and set a new standard for what an action movie can be. With Chapter 4 on the horizon, fans can expect even more of what they love about the franchise – crisp camera work, thrilling fight scenes, and Keanu Reeves at his best.