John Wick is forced back into the criminal underworld to repay a
​blood oath only to find that a bounty has been placed on his head.

ACTION/CRIME

John Wick: Chapter 2 (2017)

Directed by Chad Stahelski

Written by Derek Kolstad

Starring Keanu Reeves, Riccardo Scamarcio, Ian McShane,
​Ruby Rose, Common, Lance Reddick, Laurence Fishburne,
​Claudia Gerini, Franco Nero, Peter Stormare, John Leguizamo

Sequel to 2014's John Wick

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Connor Eyzaguirre

February 9, 2017

9/10

"John Wick is not the Boogeyman. He's the man you send to kill the f**king Boogeyman." When Michael Nyqvist uttered these words in the first installment, action fans knew that Keanu Reeves's latest flick was something special. Not only did John Wick revitalize his career, but it created an incredible new action franchise that revolves around the underground world of international assassins. Now Wick is back with Chapter 2 of a planned trilogy about the man that crime lords call Baba Yaga. This sequel has all the high-octane action of the first film with the added bonus of a higher budget, larger cast, and a chance to expand on this fascinating world.

After finding his car and returning home, John is approached by an old associate who demands that he repay a blood oath he swore years ago. When John refuses, the associate puts a bounty on his head and forces John back into the game. This film builds on an already exciting story by introducing the hierarchy of the international crime syndicates. There's a certain code of honor that must be obeyed and it's in that idea alone that this franchise continues to pique my interest. The performances are fantastic and the fight scenes are unbelievable. I keep wondering how they could possibly top the action in Chapter 3, but I'm sure they'll find some way to bring it all together.

The John Wick franchise is quickly becoming one of the most action-packed, flawless series of films in recent years. I think that without Keanu Reeves as the eponymous killer, this may never have worked. He brings a certain ruthlessness mixed with solemn reflection to the role that very few can convey with sincerity. I'm excited that this second installment was as badass as it was and I'm anxiously awaiting the final chapter.