JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4 RAKES IN MORE THAN 7 MILLION AT SA BOX OFFICE ON OPENING WEEKEND
It’s not often that the fourth movie in a franchise stands out as one of the best action movies ever made. However, according to critics and box office takings, the new John Wick film fits the bill.
JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4 is the latest instalment in one of the top action franchises of the 21st century, with each new chapter of the series proving to be bigger and better than the last. The film, which opened locally on 24 March and is currently number one in the country, got off to an impressive start, raking in more than R7-million on opening weekend.
The movie follows on from 2019’s John Wick: Chapter Three – Parabellum, which saw the titular character, played by Keanu Reeves, teaming up with Laurence Fishburne to take on the council of crime lords known as the High Table.
Internationally, the latest instalment has earned glowing praise from critics, with many saying it might be the best action film of the year. According to Nick Schager of The Daily Beast, “this fourth adventure – like those that preceded it – thrillingly and savagely slays its modern action competition.” Aaron Neuwirth of We Live Entertainment agrees: “Between the range of action we see, the creativity of the various settings and set pieces, and the way Reeves acts all through it, it’s a true wonder to behold.”
But the film is not just all about the action. “Director Chad Stahelski and screenwriters Shay Hatten and Michael Finch carry through themes surrounding consequence and the passage of time while also strengthening them with added sentiments on absolution, fate, fidelity and friendship,” explains Fresh Fiction’s Courtney Howard.
In JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4 Reeves reprises his role as the infamous and sharply suited hitman to uncover a path to defeating the High Table. But before Wick can earn his freedom, he must face off against a new enemy with powerful alliances across the globe, and forces that turn old friends into foes.
Reeves, who continues to impress, is joined again by Fishburne, as well as by action icon Donnie Yen as newcomer Caine, who delivers a physically witty and charismatic performance as an ex-assassin and an old friend of Wick’s. Additionally, Ian McShane is back as Winston, owner of the Continental Hotel, while Lance Reddick returns as the concierge, Charon.
Bill Skarsgård joins the cast as a member of the High Table and, according to Howard, “builds depth and dimension into his ostentatious, arrogant, weaselly baddie”. Another newcomer is Shamier Anderson, whose nameless character, known only as the Tracker, along with his scene-stealing dog, seems destined to be fan favourites.
For fans of over-the-top action, JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4 won’t disappoint. Although it seems implausible, the film stretches the franchise’s iconic action sequences further than ever, with plenty of shootouts, martial arts combat, and next-level stunt driving. According to Fred Topel of United Press International, the film “boasts truly innovative action – not only by the standards of the John Wick series, but also for all of cinema.”
As a culmination of the first three movies, JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4 brings the story of Reeves’ character to a peak, making it a must-see for fans of the franchise.
The film is locally distributed by Filmfinity Pty (Ltd.) and is now showing in local cinemas.
Watch the trailer here:
SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS
FILMFINITY
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeamFinityZA/
Twitter: @TeamFinityZA
Instagram: @teamfinityza
PUBLICITY & MARKETING
Starburst Promotions
Alishia van Deventer
Cell: 083 635 4717
E-mail: alishia@starburstmusic.co.za
Website: www.starburstmusic.co.za
Kind Regards,
STARBURST PROMOTIONS
Alani Coetsee – PUBLICIST