The John Wick universe expands with Ballerina, a high-octane spin-off featuring Ana de Armas as a deadly assassin seeking vengeance. While the film delivers breathtaking action and a compelling lead performance, does it live up to the legacy of Keanu Reeves’ iconic franchise? Let’s dive into this Ballerina movie review to find out.
Ballerina Movie Review: Plot & Setting
Set between John Wick: Chapter 3 and Chapter 4, Ballerina follows Eve Macarro (Ana de Armas), a trained assassin raised by the Ruska Roma. After her father is murdered by a ruthless cult leader (Gabriel Byrne), Eve embarks on a bloody quest for revenge. The film introduces new characters while weaving in familiar faces like Winston (Ian McShane) and John Wick himself (Keanu Reeves) in a brief but impactful cameo.
Ballerina Movie Review: Ana de Armas Steals the Show
Ana de Armas proves she’s a formidable action star, blending grace and brutality in her fight sequences. Unlike John Wick’s stoic demeanor, Eve’s character is fueled by raw emotion, making her journey more personal. The fight choreography is visually stunning, especially a standout scene in an ammunition store where Eve’s agility and precision take center stage.
Action & Cinematography
Director Len Wiseman (known for Underworld) keeps the pacing relentless, with explosive gunfights, hand-to-hand combat, and creative kills. The snowy climax is particularly striking, showcasing Ballerina’s ability to balance style and substance. However, some sequences feel overly chaotic, lacking the finesse of Chad Stahelski’s John Wick films.
Where Ballerina Falls Short
While the action is thrilling, the plot feels thin, relying too heavily on revenge tropes. The villains, though menacing, lack depth, and some supporting characters (like Norman Reedus’ Daniel) feel underutilized. Additionally, the film struggles to establish its own identity, often feeling like a John Wick side quest rather than a standalone story.
Ballerina Movie Review: Final Verdict
Ballerina is a solid action flick with Ana de Armas delivering a career-best performance. While it doesn’t reach the heights of the main John Wick series, it’s an entertaining addition to the universe. If you love high-energy fight scenes and stylish assassins, this film is worth watching.
Ballerina Movie Review: FAQs About Ballerina (2024)
1. Is Ballerina connected to John Wick?
Yes, Ballerina is set in the same universe and takes place between John Wick: Chapter 3 and Chapter 4.
2. Does Keanu Reeves appear in Ballerina?
Yes, Keanu Reeves has a cameo as John Wick, though his role is brief.
3. Is Ballerina a good standalone film?
While enjoyable, Ballerina works best for fans of the John Wick series, as it relies heavily on the established lore.
4. How is Ana de Armas’ performance?
Ana de Armas is spectacular, blending emotional depth with intense action sequences.
5. Will there be a Ballerina sequel?
No official confirmation yet, but given the franchise’s popularity, a sequel is possible.
Disclaimer
This Ballerina movie review is based on personal opinions and analysis. Views may vary among audiences. The film’s success will depend on individual preferences for action and storytelling styles.
