John Wick (2014): John Wick revitalized the action genre with its sleek choreography, minimalist storytelling, and world-building centered around a secret society of assassins. Keanu Reeves stars as a retired hitman drawn back into violence after thugs kill his dog—a final gift from his late wife. Directors Chad Stahelski and David Leitch, both former stuntmen, prioritized long takes, practical combat, and gun-fu precision, rejecting shaky-cam trends. The film’s “Continental Hotel” lore introduced a stylized underworld governed by rules and currency, sparking a successful franchise. Made on a modest $20 million budget, it grossed $86 million and earned cult status for its clean, brutal action. Reeves’ stoic performance resonated with audiences, turning him into an action icon once more. John Wick proved that disciplined filmmaking, clear geography, and respect for the audience’s intelligence could triumph over bloated CGI spectacles, influencing a new wave of grounded, character-driven action films.
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