“John Wick: Chapter 4,” alternatively titled “John Wick 4” or “JW4” and known in Japan as “John Wick: Consequences,” is a 2023 American masterpiece that pushes the boundaries of the neo-noir action thriller genre. Helmed by Chad Stahelski, who also co-produced, and penned by Shay Hatten and Michael Finch, this film picks up the relentless pace set by its predecessor, “John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum,” continuing as the fourth epic chapter in the adrenaline-fueled John Wick saga. Featuring Keanu Reeves in his iconic role as John Wick, the movie boasts an ensemble cast including Donnie Yen, Bill Skarsgård, Laurence Fishburne, and Ian McShane, among others. This time around, Wick is on a deadly mission for retribution against the High Table and its associates who have marked him for death, setting the stage for a gripping tale of vengeance and survival.
Plot
In the heart of New York City, the saga of John Wick takes a dramatic turn as he goes underground, teaming up with the Bowery King, plotting his revenge against the formidable High Table. His mission leads him to Morocco, where he eliminates the Elder, a key figure in the High Table’s hierarchy. This bold move prompts Marquis Vincent Bisset de Gramont, a High Table enforcer, to target John with relentless force, even going as far as dismantling the New York Continental Hotel and its loyal staff, including manager Winston and concierge Charon, in a ruthless display of power.
John’s quest for survival takes him to Osaka, Japan, seeking sanctuary in a Continental Hotel managed by his ally, Shimazu Koji. However, peace is short-lived as the hotel becomes the next battleground, with the High Table’s forces, led by Chidi and the formidable blind assassin Caine, launching a fierce attack. Amidst the chaos, John confronts Caine in a high-stakes fight, only to be saved by the timely intervention of a bounty hunter named Mr. Nobody, who deems the price on John’s head too low to bother.
With the stakes higher than ever, John returns to New York, forging an uneasy alliance with Winston. Together, they plot to use an ancient High Table tradition to challenge Marquis to a duel, a move that could liberate John from his pursuers. The catch? John must rekindle ties with the Ruska Roma syndicate and commit to a dangerous task to gain their support. In a twist of fate, John finds unlikely allies in Caine and Mr. Nobody, leading to a showdown that redefines loyalty and vengeance.
The duel, set against the picturesque backdrop of Paris’ Sacré-Cœur at dawn, becomes a test of skill, will, and survival. John faces Caine, now standing in for the Marquis, in a tense and closely matched battle that pushes both men to their limits. As the duel reaches its climax, John’s strategic brilliance and unwavering resolve shine through, leading to a decisive victory over the Marquis.
In the aftermath, John and Caine are granted their freedom, Winston regains his position, and plans to rebuild the New York Continental are set in motion, all under the watchful eye of the High Table. However, the victory is bittersweet for John, who, after reflecting on his tumultuous journey and the love he lost, succumbs to his injuries. As New York bids farewell to its most enigmatic assassin, a post-credits scene hints at unresolved vendettas, with Akira, seeking justice for her father, confronting Caine in a moment charged with anticipation for what may come next.
“John Wick: Chapter 4” weaves a tale of retribution, honor, and destiny, marking another thrilling chapter in the saga of cinema’s most relentless hitman.
