John Wick: Don’t Set Him Off (2025)

1. Plot Summary

John Wick: Ballerina is an action-packed spin-off set within the John Wick universe, specifically during the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum. The film follows Eve Macarro (Ana de Armas), a skilled ballerina-assassin trained by the Ruska Roma syndicate, the same organization that trained John Wick. Eve’s journey is driven by her quest for vengeance against those who killed her family, leading her into a dangerous world of assassins and high-stakes combat. The story intertwines with the broader John Wick narrative, featuring iconic characters like John Wick (Keanu Reeves) and The Director (Anjelica Huston).

2. Notable Elements

Performances: Ana de Armas shines as Eve Macarro, bringing a unique blend of elegance and lethality to her role. Her physicality and combat skills are impressive, leveraging her background as a ballerina to create innovative fight sequences. Keanu Reeves’ return as John Wick adds depth and continuity to the film.
Cinematography and Action: The film’s action sequences are visually stunning, with a blend of gun-fu and hand-to-hand combat that fans of the franchise will appreciate. Director Len Wiseman successfully captures the John Wick aesthetic while introducing new elements to keep the action fresh.
Unique Twist: The integration of ballet into Eve’s combat style offers a fresh perspective on the typical assassin archetype, making her a compelling and formidable character.

3. Themes and Messages

The movie explores themes of revenge, loyalty, and self-discovery. Eve’s journey is a personal quest for justice, reflecting the John Wick franchise’s focus on the consequences of seeking vengeance. The film also delves into the complexities of the assassin underworld, highlighting the moral ambiguities and harsh realities faced by characters like Eve and John Wick. While not directly related to holiday traditions, the film’s themes of loyalty and redemption can resonate with viewers during any season, emphasizing the importance of personal relationships and honor.

4. Personal Impressions

John Wick: Ballerina is an engaging addition to the John Wick universe, offering a fresh perspective through Eve’s character. Ana de Armas’ performance is captivating, and the action sequences are as intense as fans would expect. However, some viewers might find the narrative predictable, given its reliance on familiar John Wick tropes. The film’s pacing is generally well-balanced, though it could benefit from more character development outside of Eve.

5. Audience Recommendations

Fans of the John Wick franchise and action enthusiasts will enjoy Ballerina for its high-octane sequences and expansion of the John Wick universe. Viewers interested in strong female leads and unique action styles will also appreciate Ana de Armas’ portrayal of Eve Macarro.

6. Conclusions and Ratings

Overall, John Wick: Ballerina is a satisfying spin-off that maintains the John Wick franchise’s high standards for action and style. While it may not break new ground in terms of storytelling, it offers an exciting and visually stunning experience.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)