John Wick: Chapter 4 is a gloriously excessive, inventive, and silly kitchen-sink entry in the best action franchise of the last decade.

“Chapter 4, then, sees Stahelski and Reeves aiming for the most in every respect.  It’s the longest entry in the series so far, clocking in seconds shy of 2 hours and 50 minutes (with a post-credits scene too).  Its first big action sequence, as the Osaka Continental run by John’s old friend Koji (Hiroyuki Sanada) and concierge Akira (Rina Sawayama) comes under siege from High Table goons ordered by Marquis Vincent de Gramont (Bill Skarsgård) to destroy anyone affiliated with John, I am fairly certain runs longer than all of the original film’s action scenes puts together.  The collective population of a small island nation’s worth of stuntmen are on hand to get shot, stabbed, pummelled by nun chucks, set on fire, have their arms broken, thrown out of windows, hit by cars, and tumble down the 222 steps leading to the Sacré-Cœur.  Damn-near everybody featured in Chapter 4 goes through a Looney Tunes amount of punishment and it’s a coin-flip as to whether or not they’ll get back up from it for a second or third round.

…

For me?  John Wick is a classic, inarguable, but I also personally find that the more abstract and full-tilt this franchise gets, the more and more it speaks to me.  The action sequences find newer, stronger ways to thrill me, tickle me, and repulse me.  The characters become larger, cooler, and more memorable with each passing instalment.  The series’ central capitalism metaphor gets sharper and more rewarding to dive into.  The ambition becomes ever more laudable as it becomes ever more evident that Stahelski has the skills to justify the increasing scope of his vision.  Chapter 4 is Stahelski swinging for the fences, leaving everything out there for what feels like a swansong blaze-of-glory.  It is The Most John Wick.  It may be my favourite John Wick.  I loved it.  Long live the king.”

Full review exclusively on Soundsphere Magazine (link).

Callie Petch bought a zip code at the mall.