Film fans across the UK are in for a treat tonight as a modern action classic, hailed by many as 'literally the best movie of all time', is set to air on Film4. The channel will broadcast John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum, starring Keanu Reeves in his iconic role as the legendary super-assassin.
A Relentless Fight for Survival
The 2019 film picks up directly from the explosive ending of Chapter 2. After killing a member of the shadowy High Table on the sacred grounds of the Continental hotel, John Wick is declared 'excommunicado'. This places a staggering $14 million global bounty on his head, forcing him into a desperate fight for survival.
Wick must battle waves of elite assassins sent to claim the prize, taking him from the rain-soaked streets of New York to the deserts of Morocco. His journey sees him seek aid from old allies like Sofia, played by Halle Berry, while grappling with the debts and rules of the criminal underworld that now seeks to destroy him.
Keanu Reeves's Intense Physical Commitment
The film's breathtaking, non-stop action is a testament to the intense physical dedication of its star, Keanu Reeves. To prepare for the role, Reeves underwent four months of rigorous training before filming began. He mastered new martial arts disciplines, intricate gunplay, complex motorcycle stunts, and even horse riding to perform many of the sequences himself.
This commitment shines through in the film's meticulously choreographed set pieces, which notably avoid heavy reliance on CGI. One standout sequence involves a brutal, glass-shattering fight in a museum hall, executed with real-world physics and precision. Another sees Wick turn a stable and its horses into improvised weapons, showcasing the inventive and disciplined action design.
Critical Acclaim and Fan Adoration
The critical and audience response to John Wick: Chapter 3 speaks volumes. The film holds an impressive 89% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with fans and critics alike praising its relentless pace and masterful action choreography.
One enthusiastic viewer called it "literally one of the best movies of all time", praising its dramatic weight and non-stop action. Another highlighted the "best mix of hand-to-hand combat with firearms", noting how the film keeps your eyes glued to the screen.
Further reviews commend the film for its focus on consequence and rules. Every injury Wick sustains carries forward, making the action feel punishing and real rather than merely flashy. As one fan noted, defying the High Table doesn't make Wick more powerful—it makes his world smaller and far more dangerous, creating a focused and exhausting cinematic experience.
Keanu Reeves's performance also receives high praise, with fans expressing amazement at his physical dedication and screen presence, humorously questioning why he hasn't yet received an Oscar for his work in the series.
John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum airs on Film4 on Friday, 16 January at 11.05pm. For action aficionados and casual viewers alike, it promises an unforgettable night of high-octane, expertly crafted cinema.
