John Wick 4: Lowest Rotten Tomatoes Score, Yet A Fan Favorite?

Hugo van Dijk

5 min read

Post on May 11, 2025

4.6

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Rotten Tomatoes Score and Critical Consensus

John Wick: Chapter 4 currently holds a 90% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, but a significantly lower 80% critic score, a noticeable dip compared to the previous films in the franchise. This lower score reflects a general critical consensus that, while acknowledging the film's technical prowess, points to issues with pacing and a perceived over-reliance on extended action sequences.

• Specific Rotten Tomatoes score and comparison to previous films: While John Wick (2014) and John Wick: Chapter 2 (2017) boasted higher critic scores, John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum (2019) and John Wick: Chapter 4 show a similar trend of higher audience scores compared to critic scores. This suggests a pattern of disconnect between critics' expectations and the audience's enjoyment.
• Key criticisms highlighted by critics: Critics often cited the film's runtime (over 2.5 hours) as excessive and felt that some action sequences, while visually impressive, lacked narrative purpose, becoming repetitive. Some also pointed to a perceived lack of character development beyond the core protagonist, John Wick.
• Mention any positive critical responses: Positive critical feedback often focused on the innovative action choreography, the impressive practical effects, and Keanu Reeves' continued dedication to the role. The film's visual style and expansive world-building were also frequently praised.
• Link to the Rotten Tomatoes page for John Wick 4: [Link to Rotten Tomatoes John Wick 4 page]

Audience Reception and Box Office Success

Despite the mixed critical reception, John Wick 4 has been a resounding success with audiences, demonstrating a significant disconnect between critical and popular opinion.

• Box office numbers and comparisons to previous films: John Wick: Chapter 4 significantly outperformed its predecessors at the box office, demonstrating the immense popularity of the franchise and its appeal to a broad audience. This success highlights the power of word-of-mouth marketing and strong audience engagement.
• Evidence of positive audience reception: Social media platforms have been flooded with positive reviews and enthusiastic discussions about John Wick 4, showcasing impressive fan engagement and numerous repeat viewings. Online forums and review sites are filled with passionate praise for the film's action sequences, Keanu Reeves' performance, and the expanded lore of the John Wick universe.
• Highlight the reasons why audiences enjoyed the film: Audiences largely appreciated the film's commitment to intense, stylish action sequences. Keanu Reeves' performance continues to be a major draw, with fans praising his dedication and screen presence. The expansion of the John Wick universe and the introduction of new characters also contributed significantly to audience enjoyment.
• Mention any specific fan theories or discussions: The introduction of new characters and plot points sparked numerous fan theories and discussions online, contributing to the overall buzz and excitement surrounding the film.

The Action Sequences: A Double-Edged Sword

The action sequences are arguably the most discussed element of John Wick 4. While critics found them sometimes excessive or repetitive, fans celebrated them as the pinnacle of action filmmaking.

• Discuss the innovative cinematography and choreography: The innovative cinematography and intricate choreography made the action sequences truly visually stunning, a spectacle that was clearly appreciated by audiences. The use of long takes, precise movements, and a distinct visual style created a uniquely immersive cinematic experience.
• Explain how the sheer volume of action might have affected critical reception: The sheer volume of action, while a highlight for many viewers, may have contributed to the negative critical response. Some critics may have viewed it as excessive or lacking in narrative substance, overshadowing other plot elements.
• Include examples of specific action sequences: The extended fight scene in the Arc de Triomphe, for instance, was hailed by many audiences as a masterpiece of action choreography, despite some critics feeling it was excessively long. The fight in the club and the final showdown with Marquis also generated significant discussion amongst audiences.

The Disconnect Between Critics and Audiences

The disparity between the critical and audience reception of John Wick 4 highlights a potential disconnect in expectations and perspectives.

• Discuss different expectations and perspectives between critics and average moviegoers: Critics often approach films with a more analytical lens, focusing on narrative structure, character development, and originality. Average moviegoers may prioritize entertainment value, spectacle, and emotional connection.
• Consider the impact of genre conventions and audience familiarity with the franchise: As a highly stylized action film within an established franchise, John Wick 4 arguably delivered exactly what its loyal fanbase expected: non-stop action, impressive stunts, and a thrilling continuation of the story. Critics, potentially looking for more narrative innovation or character depth, may have had different expectations.
• Analyze the role of social media and word-of-mouth marketing: Social media played a crucial role in shaping audience perception of John Wick 4. Positive word-of-mouth marketing, fueled by enthusiastic fan reactions, generated significant hype and likely drove box office success.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the contrast between John Wick 4's Rotten Tomatoes score and its immense popularity demonstrates a significant difference between critical and audience reception. The film's success lies in its ability to deliver precisely what its dedicated fans crave: exhilarating action sequences, stunning practical effects, and a satisfying continuation of the beloved franchise. While some critics found the film overly long or repetitive in its action, audiences overwhelmingly embraced the spectacle and the continuation of John Wick's captivating story.

Despite a lower Rotten Tomatoes score than previous installments, John Wick 4 remains a must-see for fans of the franchise and action cinema. Have you seen John Wick 4? Share your thoughts on the film in the comments below and let us know if you agree or disagree with the critical consensus on John Wick 4 or John Wick Chapter 4.