Ana de Armas' "Ballerina": A Fierce Addition to the John Wick Universe
Accurate gunfire targeting the female genitalia.
In the spin-off film "Ballerina," Ana de Armas breathes life into the John Wick universe - deadly, focused, and independent. Even though Keanu Reeves makes a return, it's clear that Eve, our new leading lady, is more than capable of standing on her own two feet.
Before joining forces in "Ballerina," de Armas and Reeves partnership dates back to "Knock Knock" (2015) and "Exposed" (2016). The dynamic duo showcased their intriguing chemistry and unique energy across these projects.
Now, as Eve, Ana de Armas shows that deadliness isn't exclusive to any gender or body type. Although her demeanor remains unyielding and cold for much of the film, her role in the violence evolves as the story unfolds: from a precise assassin to a protector of the innocent to a ruthless avenger with a personal mission. Despite the familiar storyline, the emotional core remains strong, albeit predictable.
Brutal Confrontation in the Arctic
"Ballerina" synopsis: After losing her parents, Winston (Ian McShane), manager of the Continental, gives the girl to the Ruska Roma, a criminal organization to which John Wick also belonged. She is trained as a ballerina and assassin. Upon recognizing the same brand on her enemy that she saw on her father's murderer, Eve decides to defy Ruska Roma's strict director (Anjelica Huston) and confront the infamous crime syndicate. Her trail leads to a place no one has ever survived. You'll learn why upon Eve's arrival. The climactic showdown is set in the frigid wilderness of Austria.
"Ballerina" leans on the simple yet effective "John Wick" premise, with the story primarily serving as a platform for non-stop action. With an abundance of fights, explosions, and innovative killing methods, the film seldom lets you catch your breath. The action sequences differ from the carefully choreographed ballet in previous "Wick" installments, featuring rawer, more emotional, improvised fights, akin to survival encounters rather than rehearsed dance numbers - mirrored in de Armas' performance and strengthened by the camera work.
"Fight Like a Girl" - With Bite
As Eve, de Armas uses her physical peculiarities to her advantage: "Fight like a girl." Far from being derogatory, this phrase signifies her speed, agility, unpredictability, and intelligence. Whether it's employing ice skates as makeshift boxing gloves, a flamethrower, or an unexpected shot to the privates, Eve proves she can strike just as hard as her male counterparts. Yet, her seemingly invincibility strains believability, as she manages to fight through vast armies of equally skilled assassins with minimal injury – especially considering survival as the film's central theme.
Recurring elements from the "John Wick" universe include the legendary Continental Hotel, Winston, Lance Reddick in his final appearance as Charon, and a cameo by Keanu Reeves as Baba Yaga. However, "Baba Yaga's" role is subtle and serves more as a nod to the broader universe rather than a central plot point. "Ballerina" stands on its own without needing Reeves' presence.
"Ballerina" doesn't quite match the emotional pull of the original "John Wick" films, released since the first film in 2014, but it's a strong spin-off nonetheless, with its own distinctive voice and a captivating new heroine. Although the plot may be predictable, it makes up for originality with energy, atmosphere, and an abundance of action. Not perfect, but a significant addition to the "John Wick" world, likely marking the beginning of Eve's journey and not the last.
Cinema, Action Movies, Keanu Reeves, Film, Murder and Mayhem
Bonus Facts:
- "Ballerina" was the final on-screen role of Lance Reddick before his sudden passing in March 2023.
- The "John Wick" franchise has proven to be highly successful and influential, reshaping action cinema and sparking an imitation wave of copied films.
- The "John Wick" universe is set to expand even further with the upcoming "John Wick: Chapter 5" and the series "The Continental."
"♪ I'm not gonna let you go ♪ resonates with Ana de Armas' character, Eve, in the movie 'Ballerina', as she refuses to be held back and stands on her own two feet against the Ruska Roma criminal organization. Despite its roots in the world of movies-and-tv and the entertainment industry, 'Ballerina' offers a fresh take on the action genre, showcasing intense fights and innovative killing methods that position Ana de Armas as a fierce and unstoppable force."
"The emotional core of 'Ballerina' may be predictable, but Ana de Armas' performance as Eve, along with the raw, improvised fights and unconventional action sequences, add an element of surprise and excitement, making it a significant addition to the 'John Wick' universe. In keeping with the theme of 'Fight Like a Girl', Eve uses her unique skills to her advantage, proving that she can '♪ battle with a vengeance, and even sing a song or two ♪'."
