Despite Low Rotten Tomatoes Score, Is John Wick: Chapter 3 The Best?

Chloe Fitzgerald

5 min read

Post on May 11, 2025

4.4

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Unmatched Action and Stunt Work

John Wick: Chapter 3 is a masterclass in action filmmaking, significantly surpassing its predecessors in both scale and innovation. The film's success hinges on its breathtaking action sequences, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the genre.

The Gun-Fu is Elevated

The gun-fu, a signature element of the franchise, reaches new heights in Chapter 3. The fight choreography is meticulously crafted, seamlessly blending gunplay with hand-to-hand combat in a way that's both exhilarating and visually stunning. The use of practical effects over CGI enhances the realism and impact of each blow and gunshot.

• The extended fight scene in the Continental Hotel: A breathtaking display of close-quarters combat, utilizing the environment creatively.
• The motorcycle chase through the streets of New York: A pulse-pounding sequence showcasing incredible stunt work and innovative camera angles.
• The diverse weaponry: From pistols and shotguns to swords and nunchucks, the film showcases a wide array of weaponry, making each fight unique and visually engaging. This expands on the already impressive arsenal seen in previous films, adding new layers to the gun-fu style. Keywords: John Wick action, gun-fu, fight choreography, practical effects, action sequences, stunt work.

Expanding the World

Chapter 3 significantly expands the John Wick universe, enriching the already compelling world established in the previous films. This expansion is crucial to the film's success, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.

• The introduction of the Adjudicator: A powerful new antagonist who raises the stakes considerably, significantly impacting John Wick's journey.
• Exploring new locations: From the bustling streets of New York to the exotic locales of Casablanca and Morocco, the film offers stunning visuals and expands the world's geographical scope.
• Deepening the Continental Hotel lore: The film delves deeper into the rules and intricacies of the Continental Hotel, showcasing its importance in the assassin underworld. Keywords: John Wick universe, Continental Hotel, world-building, new characters, expanded universe.

A Compelling Narrative and Character Development

Beyond the impressive action, Chapter 3 offers a compelling narrative and significant character development, particularly for John Wick himself.

John Wick's Emotional Journey

This installment delves deeper into John Wick's emotional state, exploring the consequences of his actions and his unwavering determination. The film showcases his resilience in the face of overwhelming odds, revealing a character grappling with grief and loss while still fighting for survival.

• The death of Sofia: This event has a significant emotional impact on John Wick and informs his actions throughout the film.
• His unwavering commitment to his dog: This simple yet powerful element highlights John Wick's capacity for love and loyalty, adding emotional weight to his relentless pursuit of survival. Keywords: John Wick character development, emotional arc, resilience, determination, character relationships.

The Stakes Are Higher Than Ever

Chapter 3 significantly raises the stakes, increasing the tension and emotional investment of the audience. The consequences of John Wick's actions are far-reaching, putting him at odds with the powerful High Table and its enforcers.

• The Excommunicatio: John Wick becomes a target for every assassin in the world, highlighting the severe consequences of breaking the rules of the assassin underworld.
• The relentless pursuit: The constant threat hanging over John Wick keeps the audience on the edge of their seats, increasing the emotional engagement with the protagonist's journey. Keywords: High Table, John Wick consequences, stakes, tension, emotional investment.

Addressing the Rotten Tomatoes Score

While John Wick: Chapter 3 boasts significant audience appeal, its Rotten Tomatoes score remains comparatively lower. This discrepancy deserves examination.

Subjectivity of Critical Reviews

Film criticism, by nature, is subjective. What one critic finds compelling, another might dismiss. The lower Rotten Tomatoes score might reflect differing critical opinions rather than a reflection of the film's overall quality.

• Focus on plot versus action: Some critics might prioritize a complex plot over spectacular action sequences, leading to a less favorable review.
• Pre-release hype and expectations: The immense anticipation surrounding Chapter 3 might have created unrealistic expectations for some critics, influencing their judgment. Keywords: Rotten Tomatoes score, film criticism, subjective reviews, audience reception, critical opinion.

The Focus on Style over Substance

The argument that Chapter 3 prioritizes style over substance is a valid point of discussion. While the film undeniably excels in its visual style and action sequences, some might argue that the plot is comparatively less intricate.

• Simplified narrative: The plot is straightforward, prioritizing action over complex character motivations.
• Action as the main focus: The film's strength lies in the breathtaking action, potentially overshadowing other narrative elements for some viewers. Keywords: style over substance, action movie tropes, plot development, character arc, critical analysis.

Conclusion

John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum, despite its lower Rotten Tomatoes score, delivers breathtaking action, compelling character development, and a significant expansion of its captivating universe. While critics may have focused on certain aspects, the film's impact on audiences and the sheer artistry of its action sequences solidify its place as a fan favorite and potentially the best in the John Wick franchise. Is John Wick Chapter 3 the best for you? Let us know in the comments! Keywords: John Wick Chapter 3, best John Wick movie, action movie, Rotten Tomatoes, fan favorite.