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

Hugo van Dijk

4 min read

Post on May 07, 2025

4.4

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Rotten Tomatoes Score and Critical Reception

John Wick: Chapter 4 currently holds a 90% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, a testament to its popularity, but its critics' score is notably lower than its predecessors. While the exact number fluctuates, it consistently sits below the scores achieved by John Wick, John Wick: Chapter 2, and John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum. This discrepancy raises questions about the critical reception of the film.

Common criticisms leveled against John Wick 4 often center on its excessive length and, in some instances, repetitive action sequences. Critics have pointed to the film's near three-hour runtime as detracting from the pacing, leading to moments of narrative fatigue. Some reviewers felt that the sheer volume of action, while impressive, occasionally lacked the originality and impact of earlier installments. For example, a review in The Guardian stated, "While spectacular, the action sometimes feels like a relentless, repetitive onslaught." Another critique often mentioned is the predictability of certain plot elements, leaving some feeling that the narrative lacked sufficient surprises.

• Key Critical Arguments:
  • Excessive length detracts from pacing.
  • Some action sequences feel repetitive.
  • Narrative predictability.

Audience Reaction and Box Office Success

While critics offered mixed responses, John Wick 4's audience reception has been overwhelmingly positive. The high audience scores on platforms like IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes reflect this enthusiasm. Beyond positive reviews, the film's box office performance was a significant success, demonstrating a strong connection with its target demographic. This achievement is even more impressive considering the lower critical scores, suggesting the dedicated fanbase played a significant role in the film's financial triumph. This loyal following, built over the course of the entire franchise, was instrumental in driving ticket sales.

• Audience Praise:
  • Spectacular action choreography.
  • Keanu Reeves's compelling performance.
  • Visually stunning cinematography.
  • Expansion of the John Wick universe.

Why John Wick 4 Might Be Considered the Best (Despite the Score)

Despite the criticisms, many argue that John Wick: Chapter 4 surpasses its predecessors. The improvements lie not in a simplification of the formula but in its bold expansion. The film showcases elevated action sequences, employing innovative camera work and choreography that surpasses previous installments. Furthermore, the character arcs feel more developed, resulting in scenes with greater emotional resonance. The narrative, while longer, delivers a more ambitious and expansive storyline, significantly broadening the John Wick universe and its lore. The film's thematic exploration of loyalty, consequences, and the weight of past actions adds another layer of depth, creating a more profound and satisfying experience.

A Deeper Dive into the Action

The action sequences in John Wick 4 stand out for their innovative use of long takes and intricate choreography. The extended fight sequences, often utilizing multiple locations and combatants simultaneously, showcase a level of detail and artistry previously unseen in the franchise. The film carefully balances practical effects with CGI, resulting in a visceral and believable action experience that is both visually stunning and highly entertaining. When compared to previous films, the sheer scale and complexity of the action in Chapter 4 represent a significant leap forward in terms of cinematic ambition.

Conclusion

John Wick: Chapter 4 presents a fascinating case study in the disconnect between critical consensus and audience response. While the lower Rotten Tomatoes score reflects criticisms about length and narrative repetition, the overwhelmingly positive audience reception and significant box office success highlight the film's undeniable appeal. Arguments for its superiority center on the improved action choreography, stronger character development, a more ambitious storyline, and a deeper exploration of thematic elements. Ultimately, whether John Wick 4 is considered the best John Wick film is a matter of personal preference.

Have you seen John Wick 4? What are your thoughts? Share your opinion on whether it deserves its Rotten Tomatoes score and if you consider it the best John Wick film in the comments below! Join the conversation about John Wick 4 and its place in the franchise.