John Wick 4: Lowest Rotten Tomatoes Score, But Still The Best?

Kenji Nakamura

5 min read

Post on May 11, 2025

4.5

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Analyzing John Wick 4's Rotten Tomatoes Score

What does the Rotten Tomatoes score actually tell us?

Rotten Tomatoes, while a widely used metric, offers a limited perspective. Aggregate scores, like those on Rotten Tomatoes, condense a wide range of subjective opinions into a single percentage. This simplification ignores the nuances of individual reviews and the diverse interpretations of cinematic artistry. A lower score doesn't necessarily equate to a "bad" movie; it simply indicates a divergence of critical opinion. Many factors influence a critic's rating, including personal preferences, expectations, and even current critical trends.

Specific Criticisms Highlighted in Reviews

Common criticisms leveled against John Wick 4 include:

• Over-the-top action becoming formulaic: Some critics felt the relentless action, while impressive, lacked the innovative spark of previous installments, potentially feeling repetitive.
• Plot feels convoluted in places: The intricate plot, while expanding the John Wick universe, was deemed by some to be overly complex and occasionally confusing.
• Some pacing issues: The film's lengthy runtime (over two and a half hours) led to concerns about pacing, with certain scenes feeling drawn out or lacking impact.

Counterarguments: Positive Aspects of John Wick 4

Despite the criticisms, many aspects of John Wick 4 garnered considerable praise:

• Stunning action choreography and innovative fight sequences: The film delivered groundbreaking action sequences, showcasing intricate choreography and inventive fight styles rarely seen in mainstream cinema. The use of diverse weapons and locations elevated the action to new heights.
• Stronger character development for John Wick: Keanu Reeves’ portrayal of John Wick reached new emotional depths, providing audiences with a deeper understanding of his motivations and internal conflicts.
• Expanded world-building within the John Wick universe: John Wick 4 significantly expanded the franchise's lore, introducing compelling new characters and locations that enriched the overall narrative.

Why Fans Consider John Wick 4 the Best

Elevated Action Sequences

John Wick 4's action is frequently cited by fans as the best in the franchise. The extended fight sequences in locations like the Arc de Triomphe and the sprawling Parisian streets showcase unparalleled creativity and intensity. The use of diverse weapons, from swords and nunchucks to creatively utilized everyday objects, keeps the action fresh and engaging. The introduction of new fighting styles and the increased stakes heighten the sense of danger and spectacle.

Character Development and Emotional Depth

Fans appreciate the emotional depth explored in John Wick 4. The film delves deeper into John Wick's backstory, showcasing his grief and resilience. His relationships with supporting characters like Winston and Bowery King are significantly explored, adding emotional weight to the action-packed narrative. This emotional core makes the high-octane action sequences even more impactful.

Expanding the John Wick Universe

John Wick 4 masterfully expands the franchise's universe, introducing a wider array of characters and factions within the assassin underworld. This expansion adds layers of complexity to the narrative, enriching the world and creating further potential for future installments. The intricate details and connections between characters add depth and intrigue to the overall storyline.

The Impact of Fan Expectations and Community Building

The passionate fanbase surrounding the John Wick franchise played a significant role in shaping the perception of John Wick 4. High expectations built upon the success of the previous films fueled a level of excitement and anticipation that significantly impacted fan reception, regardless of critical consensus. The strong online community fostered a sense of collective excitement and shared experience.

Comparing John Wick 4 to Previous Installments

Side-by-Side Comparison of Rotten Tomatoes Scores and Audience Scores

While the critics' scores show slight variations, the audience scores remain consistently high, demonstrating strong, unwavering fan support. The high audience scores for John Wick 4 highlight the disconnect between critical reception and audience enjoyment.

Key Differences in Plot, Action, and Character Development

Compared to previous films, John Wick 4 boasts a larger scale, a more complex plot, and even more elaborate action sequences. While some may find the plot more convoluted, others will appreciate the expanded world-building and deeper character development. The increased scale and scope offer a different, yet arguably equally enjoyable, cinematic experience.

The Evolution of the John Wick Franchise’s Style and Themes

The John Wick franchise has evolved with each installment. John Wick 4 builds upon the established style and themes while pushing the boundaries of action cinema. The film's increased scale and more intricate plot serve as a testament to the franchise's growth and ambition.

John Wick 4: A Verdict

John Wick 4, despite its slightly lower Rotten Tomatoes score compared to Chapter 3, demonstrates a captivating expansion of the franchise's world and characters. While critics pointed out certain pacing and plot complexities, the film's exceptional action sequences, emotional depth, and impressive world-building have resonated profoundly with fans. The significant gap between critical and audience scores highlights the subjective nature of film criticism and the power of audience engagement. Ultimately, whether John Wick 4 surpasses its predecessors is a matter of personal preference. The film's strengths are undeniable, making a compelling case for its position as the best in the franchise.

What are your thoughts? Is John Wick 4 the best in the franchise, despite its lower Rotten Tomatoes score? Let us know in the comments below!