The John Wick universe just got a lot bloodier—and a little more elegant—with Ballerina, the long-anticipated spin-off featuring Ana de Armas. Set between the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum and Chapter 4, this film expands the franchise’s mythos while delivering the brutal ballet of gun-fu fans expect. And honestly? It kind of rocked.
Ana de Armas brings a fierce presence to the screen, channeling the same relentless energy Keanu Reeves made iconic. While her character doesn’t benefit from the same emotional shorthand (no murdered puppy here), she anchors the action with conviction—and plenty of carnage. Flamethrowers and grenades? They’re MVPs in this movie. One standout sequence with a flamethrower is straight-up jaw-dropping, and a bunker-style, close-quarters shootout had the theater audibly cheering.
That said, the film isn’t without its hiccups. The first third feels a bit sluggish—less “slow burn,” more “let’s get to the killing already.” The narrative never hits the emotional highs of the original John Wick, likely because we’re just not as deeply connected to this new character yet. But once the bullets start flying, Ballerina finds its rhythm fast. And the final act? It’s phenomenal—likely where those rumored reshoots came in. It’s sharp, explosive, and even delivers a satisfying (if brief) John Wick cameo that reminds you why Keanu Reeves is still that guy.
Reeves doesn’t steal the movie, but his presence injects it with franchise-anchoring weight, tying the spin-off back to the main storyline in a way that feels earned and exciting. It’s fan service, yes, but it works.
Norman Reedus also turns up in a small role that’s full of flavor. You’ll want more of him, and hopefully, the Wick-verse obliges. The return of Lance Reddick as Charon adds an emotional layer, given his real-life passing, and it’s a respectful, touching nod.
The worldbuilding remains top-notch. From the ever-enigmatic Continental to the idea that seemingly everyone on Earth is an elite killer with a vendetta, Ballerina reinforces just how deep this rabbit hole goes. It also ends with a clear setup for either a sequel or a crossover with John Wick 5, which feels like the smart play.
In the end, Ballerina might just follow in the original John Wick’s footsteps—an under-the-radar release that grows into a cult phenomenon once word spreads. It’s got the action, the style, the weirdly hilarious improvised weapons, and just enough story to keep things moving. And if this is just the beginning of Ana de Armas carving her way through the High Table? Count me in.
Ballerina = 79/100
