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

Laila Abdi

5 min read

Post on May 11, 2025

4.9

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A Lower Rotten Tomatoes Score: Understanding the Numbers

John Wick: Chapter 4 currently holds a lower Rotten Tomatoes score than its predecessors. While the exact score fluctuates, it's noticeably below the scores achieved by John Wick, John Wick: Chapter 2, and John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum. This begs the question: why the disparity?

Several factors may contribute to this lower critical score:

• Higher Expectations: After the phenomenal success of Chapter 3, expectations for Chapter 4 were sky-high. Any deviation from the established formula, even a slight one, might have been met with harsher criticism.
• Differing Opinions on Pacing and Plot: Some critics may have found the pacing of Chapter 4 slightly uneven or the plot a bit convoluted compared to the more streamlined narratives of earlier films. The increased scale of the film's action and world-building may have also contributed to this.
• Action Genre Oversaturation: The action genre is saturated, with many high-octane films released annually. This can lead to a higher critical bar and a more discerning eye towards innovative storytelling within the genre. The sheer number of action-packed scenes might have led some to view the film as formulaic, despite the high quality of the execution.

You can check the current Rotten Tomatoes scores for yourself by visiting [link to Rotten Tomatoes John Wick 4 page] and comparing it to the scores of previous films in the franchise. Other review aggregators like Metacritic can offer further insight into the critical consensus.

The Unmatched Action Sequences: A Masterclass in Gun Fu

John Wick: Chapter 4 delivers an unparalleled spectacle of action. The film elevates the franchise's signature "gun-fu" to new heights, showcasing a breathtaking display of innovative fight choreography and visceral intensity.

Building on the foundations laid in previous installments, Chapter 4 introduces several notable improvements:

• Extended, uninterrupted fight sequences: Many scenes unfold as extended, unbroken takes, showcasing the skill of both the actors and the stunt team.
• Creative use of weaponry and environments: The film creatively utilizes the environment and a diverse arsenal of weapons, transforming everyday objects into deadly tools in the hands of skilled assassins.
• Exceptional stunt work and choreography: The dedication to practical effects and impressive stunt work is evident in every fight scene. The choreography is intricate, varied, and visually stunning.
• Visually stunning cinematography: The cinematography beautifully captures the intensity and artistry of the action, ensuring every punch, kick, and gunshot is both impactful and visually captivating.

Specific examples of standout action sequences include the extended fight at the Arc de Triomphe and the visually stunning showdown in the Osaka-based club. These scenes encapsulate the film's dedication to intricate, inventive, and captivating action.

Character Development and Story Progression: Expanding the Wick-verse

John Wick: Chapter 4 significantly expands on the character development of John Wick himself, pushing him to his physical and emotional limits. The film explores themes of loyalty, revenge, and the consequences of a life lived on the edge.

Key character developments and plot points include:

• John Wick's relentless pursuit of freedom: His quest to break free from the High Table forms the central narrative, demonstrating his unwavering determination and resilience.
• The introduction of new characters: The Marquis, Caine, and other new antagonists provide compelling challenges and enrich the film's narrative complexity.
• Expanding the John Wick universe: The film expands the world of assassins, revealing more about its intricate rules, factions, and hidden lore. This expansion adds depth to the John Wick universe and creates opportunities for future installments.

These character arcs and plot points contribute to a compelling narrative that surpasses the simple revenge story of previous films, creating a more nuanced and emotionally resonant experience.

Audience Reception vs. Critical Consensus: The Verdict of the Fans

While critics may have expressed some reservations, John Wick: Chapter 4 has garnered overwhelmingly positive audience reception. This discrepancy highlights the crucial difference between critical analysis and audience enjoyment. The film's box office success, coupled with overwhelmingly positive social media buzz and fan reviews, solidifies its position as a massive crowd-pleaser.

The sheer volume of positive fan feedback on platforms like [link to relevant social media platform] and [link to IMDb or another review site] demonstrates the film's ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. This positive audience response emphasizes the fact that a film's true success is often defined by its impact on viewers, rather than solely based on critical reviews.

Conclusion

While John Wick: Chapter 4 may not boast the highest Rotten Tomatoes score in the franchise, its exceptional action sequences, compelling character development, and overwhelmingly positive audience response make it a fan favorite and, for many, the best John Wick film yet. The film's success showcases the potential for audience enjoyment to outweigh critical consensus. If you haven't yet experienced the adrenaline-pumping world of John Wick 4, it’s time to see for yourself why this action masterpiece continues to reign supreme, regardless of its Rotten Tomatoes score. Go see John Wick: Chapter 4 – a truly unforgettable cinematic experience!