Plot Overview
John Wick: Ballerina is a high-energy, action-packed spin-off set in the same universe as the John Wick series. Taking place around the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum, the movie follows Eve Macarro (played by Ana de Armas), a highly trained assassin with a background as a ballerina. Trained by the deadly Ruska Roma syndicate, the same organization that honed John Wick’s skills, Eve embarks on a personal journey for revenge. After her family is brutally murdered, she seeks to hunt down those responsible, drawing her deeper into the dangerous, high-stakes world of assassins. The film also ties into the larger John Wick storyline, with appearances from iconic characters like John Wick (Keanu Reeves) and The Director (Anjelica Huston).
Video: From the World of John Wick: Ballerina (2025) New Trailer – Ana de Armas, Keanu Reeves
Standout Features
Ana de Armas’ Performance: Ana de Armas delivers a stellar performance as Eve, bringing a combination of grace and danger to the role. With her ballet background, she seamlessly incorporates fluid, dynamic fight choreography, making her character a fresh addition to the assassin archetype. Her portrayal of Eve stands out for both her emotional depth and her remarkable physicality, offering a compelling blend of vulnerability and strength.
Action and Cinematography: The film is packed with jaw-dropping action sequences that will excite John Wick fans. The expertly crafted choreography blends gunplay and hand-to-hand combat, staying true to the franchise’s signature style while adding new elements to keep the action feeling fresh. Directed by Len Wiseman, the movie does a great job capturing the slick and intense aesthetic that fans have come to love, while also introducing a new layer of creativity to the fight scenes. The use of ballet as part of Eve’s combat style is an inventive twist, offering a visually unique experience compared to traditional assassin action.
A Unique Twist: One of the film’s most distinctive features is Eve’s use of ballet in her combat. This integration adds a fresh perspective to the world of assassins, showcasing a character who not only wields weapons but also incorporates the fluid movements of a ballerina. It’s a unique take that separates Eve from other assassins in the John Wick universe and provides a visual spectacle that has never been seen before.
Themes and Messages
At its core, John Wick: Ballerina explores themes of vengeance, loyalty, and self-discovery. Eve’s quest for justice is personal, mirroring the larger John Wick narrative of the consequences that come with seeking revenge. The film also highlights the complexities and moral ambiguities of the assassin world. Much like John Wick, Eve must navigate a world full of betrayal and harsh realities, where every action comes with a cost. Though the story isn’t directly linked to specific holidays or traditions, its messages about loyalty and redemption resonate universally, reinforcing the importance of personal honor and the complexities of human relationships.
Personal Thoughts
John Wick: Ballerina brings an exciting new perspective to the John Wick universe, thanks to the captivating portrayal of Eve Macarro by Ana de Armas. The action sequences are as thrilling as expected, with inventive choreography that keeps things fresh. However, the storyline can feel somewhat predictable at times, especially for viewers familiar with the John Wick franchise’s typical themes and tropes. While the pacing of the film is generally solid, a bit more character development beyond Eve’s backstory could have elevated the movie even further.
Video: From the World of John Wick: Ballerina (2025) ‘CCXP Extended Look’ – Ana de Armas, Norman Reedus
Who Will Enjoy This Movie
Fans of the John Wick series will find Ballerina to be an exciting and satisfying expansion of the universe they already love. The action-packed sequences and intense fight scenes are sure to appeal to those who crave high-stakes thrills. Additionally, viewers who enjoy strong female characters and unique combat styles will be drawn to Ana de Armas’ performance as Eve Macarro. Whether you’re a die-hard John Wick fan or someone simply looking for a fresh, action-packed movie, Ballerina delivers an engaging experience.
Final Thoughts and Rating
Overall, John Wick: Ballerina is a successful spin-off that maintains the high standard of action and style that fans have come to expect from the John Wick franchise. While it may not reinvent the wheel when it comes to storytelling, it offers a visually stunning and fast-paced experience. The film stands out for its unique integration of ballet into the assassin genre and Ana de Armas’ outstanding performance. It’s a thrilling ride that enhances the John Wick universe, making it a must-watch for fans of the series and action movie enthusiasts alike.
