The John Wick cinematic universe continues to grow with Ballerina, the much-anticipated spin-off starring Ana de Armas. Directed by Len Wiseman, the film blends balletic grace with high-octane violence, as it explores the tragic past and ruthless present of a new assassin within the Wick mythos.
Set between John Wick: Chapter 3 and Chapter 4, Ballerina follows Eve Macarro (Ana de Armas), a ballerina-trained killer on a mission to avenge her father’s murder. Her quest for vengeance pulls her deeper into the criminal underworld, intertwining with familiar faces and factions from the larger franchise.
Stylish Action and Choreography
If there is one thing critics universally agree on, it’s that Ballerina delivers spectacular action sequences. The Washington Post praises the film’s “unexpected humor and slapstick violence,” which inject a fresh tone into the often somber John Wick universe. Actor Norman Reedus, who plays Pine, commented that the film’s fight scenes are “very choreographed and calculated,” highlighting the precision and artistry that fans have come to expect from the series.
Director Len Wiseman, known for his work on the Underworld films, brings a distinctly kinetic style to Ballerina. From elaborate one-shot fight scenes to intricately staged chases, the film’s action has been designed to showcase both physical prowess and visual flair. The ballet-inspired combat, particularly in sequences set inside the Ruska Roma training halls, offers a unique visual identity that sets Ballerina apart.
Ana de Armas’s Performance: A Divided Response
Ana de Armas steps confidently into the franchise’s blood-soaked spotlight, and her performance has sparked considerable debate among critics. The San Francisco Chronicle hails her portrayal of Eve as “one of the most memorable female action performances in recent cinema,” citing her physical commitment and emotional nuance.
However, not all reviews have been glowing. The New York Post criticizes De Armas’s turn as lacking the “gravitas and enigmatic intensity” of Keanu Reeves’s iconic John Wick, describing her performance as “flat” in some pivotal moments. This split in critical opinion may reflect the challenges of anchoring a spin-off in a universe so closely associated with a single, beloved protagonist.
Plot and Narrative: Simplicity or Missed Opportunity?
When it comes to storytelling, Ballerina seems to have divided audiences as well. TIME notes that while the plot is “simple and emotionally driven,” it allows room for the film’s “stylish violence” and elaborately choreographed stunts to shine.
In contrast, The Sun takes a harsher view, labeling the narrative as “thin” and the dialogue “underwhelming.” According to the review, Ballerina struggles to match the emotional weight and intricate plotting that have distinguished the best of the John Wick films.
Expanding the John Wick Universe
One of Ballerina’s greatest strengths is its seamless integration into the John Wick universe. The film features key appearances by Keanu Reeves (John Wick), Ian McShane (Winston), and Anjelica Huston (the Director), helping to anchor Eve’s story within the larger mythology.
Watch the Ballerina (2025) Clips
Additionally, the movie deepens the lore of the Ruska Roma, the secretive crime syndicate first introduced in John Wick: Chapter 3. Eve’s personal connection to this shadowy world offers intriguing new dimensions to the franchise, laying the groundwork for potential future installments.
Final Verdict
While Ballerina may not surpass the best entries in the John Wick saga, it succeeds as a visually dynamic and thematically rich spin-off. Fans of the franchise will appreciate its stylish violence, well-executed action, and deeper exploration of the Wick universe. However, those seeking a narrative on par with John Wick’s more layered storytelling may find Ballerina lacking in emotional depth.
Still, Ana de Armas proves she is more than capable of leading an action blockbuster — and with its breathtaking fight choreography and expanded world-building, Ballerina earns its place as a worthy, if imperfect, addition to the ever-expanding Wick canon.
