Ballerina: A New Chapter in the John Wick Universe
Ana de Armas stars in 'Ballerina,' a John Wick spinoff that blends action and revenge in a snowy assassin-filled village.
Overview
Set between John Wick 3 and 4, 'Ballerina' follows Eve Macarro, played by Ana de Armas, seeking vengeance for her father's murder. The film features intense action sequences, with a focus on balletic violence rather than traditional ballet. Critics praise de Armas' performance and the choreography, though some find the plot lacking depth. Keanu Reeves reprises his role, adding a familiar touch to the franchise. The film opens with Eve's tragic backstory and explores her training under The Director, played by Anjelica Huston. 'Ballerina' premieres in theaters on June 6, 2025.
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Analysis
Left
The article presents a balanced view of 'Ballerina', noting its action sequences and potential.
It critiques the film's lack of originality and depth compared to 'John Wick'.
The performances and dialogue are described as forgettable, leading to a mixed impression.
Center
The articles generally praise Ana de Armas' performance in 'Ballerina' and its action sequences.
Some reviews highlight weaknesses like a thin script and lack of emotional depth, offering a balanced view.
Overall, there's excitement for 'Ballerina's' release and its connection to the John Wick franchise.
Right
The articles express disappointment in 'Ballerina,' criticizing its lack of originality compared to the 'John Wick' series.
Visual appeal and plot depth are major concerns, with some action scenes praised but overall execution deemed lacking.
Humor and clever action are noted, yet predictability and excessive violence overshadow the film's engaging elements.
Left
The article presents a balanced view of 'Ballerina', noting its action sequences and potential.
It critiques the film's lack of originality and depth compared to 'John Wick'.
The performances and dialogue are described as forgettable, leading to a mixed impression.
Center
The articles generally praise Ana de Armas' performance in 'Ballerina' and its action sequences.
Some reviews highlight weaknesses like a thin script and lack of emotional depth, offering a balanced view.
Overall, there's excitement for 'Ballerina's' release and its connection to the John Wick franchise.
Right
The articles express disappointment in 'Ballerina,' criticizing its lack of originality compared to the 'John Wick' series.
Visual appeal and plot depth are major concerns, with some action scenes praised but overall execution deemed lacking.
Humor and clever action are noted, yet predictability and excessive violence overshadow the film's engaging elements.
Articles (8)
Rolling Stone·12d·"…For the most part, however, Ballerina feels less like an extension of the Wickiverse than simply another dogged attempt to replicate its winning formula."
TIME Magazine·10d·"…Ballerina is a stunt-person-employment extravaganza."
Deadline·12d·"…De Armas is too good; her performance here is more than enough to elevate the film beyond the fray."
Deadline·12d·"…Whether or not Lionsgate’s John Wick spinoff Ballerina clears or falls under $30M this weekend in U.S./Canada, consider the win in favor of exhibition which will have that much more money in the marketplace."
USA TODAY·12d·"…De Armas is a great addition to the 'Wick'-verse, as is Wiseman: From the 'Underworld' movies to a 'Total Recall' reboot and a 'Die Hard,' the director is no stranger to action flicks and 'Ballerina' is his best, by a lot."
Chicago Tribune·12d·"…The movie hits sincere variations on the themes of fate and family, practically begging for a 'Fast & Furious' crossover project."
New York Post·10d·"…Too bad “Ballerina” drops the ball."
Boston Herald·10d·"…Watching our energetic star, Ana de Armas, engage in a plate-smashing contest with a sweet waitress-turned-vicious-killer reminds us that action can be clever, even if most scenes in this series inevitably become numbing, as the body count rises stratospherically."
FAQ
History
- 12d5 articles