John Wick Franchise: Why The Best Film Has The Worst Rotten Tomatoes Rating?

Mei Lin

4 min read

Post on May 12, 2025

4.9

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John Wick: Chapter 2 – A Critical Deep Dive

The Rotten Tomatoes Score and its Limitations

John Wick: Chapter 2 currently holds a 71% Rotten Tomatoes score – lower than the subsequent films in the franchise. However, the Rotten Tomatoes score, while a useful aggregate, has limitations. It's a subjective metric, susceptible to biases and influenced by factors beyond pure cinematic merit.

• Specific Score: The 71% score for Chapter 2 is notably lower than the scores for John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum (90%) and John Wick: Chapter 4 (95%).
• Critical Biases: Critics may have held higher expectations for Chapter 2, given the phenomenal success of the first film. A sequel inevitably invites comparisons, potentially leading to harsher judgments.
• Franchise Trajectory: The success of later films, expanding the world and deepening the lore, might inadvertently cast Chapter 2 in a less favorable light through retrospective viewing.

The lower score may reflect a perceived shift in the film's tone or pacing compared to the original, a departure some critics might have found less appealing. This doesn't necessarily equate to lower quality, however.

Why Chapter 2 is Arguably the Best

Action Sequences and Choreography

Chapter 2's action sequences are frequently cited as some of the best in the franchise, exceeding even the already impressive fight choreography of the first film. This improvement is evident in several key ways:

• Cinematic Impact: The extended fight in the mirrored hallway is a masterclass in precision and visual storytelling, showcasing an inventive use of space and a stunning display of practical effects.
• Action Style: While retaining the signature gun-fu style, Chapter 2 introduced new elements, expanding the range of combat styles and weapon choices.
• Practical Effects: The emphasis on practical effects and stunt work over CGI elevates the realism and impact of each fight, contributing to a more visceral and engaging experience.

The innovative action sequences alone elevate Chapter 2 to a contender for the best in the franchise, offering a refined and compelling cinematic experience that surpasses the simpler, though effective, action in the original.

The Evolution of the Franchise and Shifting Critical Perspectives

The Impact of Subsequent Films on Critical Reception

The success of Chapter 3 and Chapter 4 inadvertently influenced the perception of Chapter 2. These films built upon the foundation laid in Chapter 2, refining and expanding on its elements.

• Building Blocks: Chapter 2 introduced key elements that shaped the franchise's identity, such as the expansion of the Continental Hotel storyline and the introduction of new characters like Cassian. Later films amplified these elements.
• Shifting Standards: The evolution of action cinema and the increasing appreciation for intricate fight choreography might lead to more favorable reviews of films that followed Chapter 2, potentially affecting how it's perceived in retrospect.
• Fan Reception: The enduring popularity of Chapter 2 among fans highlights its lasting impact and suggests that critical reception might not entirely reflect audience appreciation.

The franchise's success has, ironically, partially overshadowed the innovation and quality of Chapter 2, which served as a crucial bridge to the franchise’s later heights.

Audience vs. Critic Reception: A Tale of Two Scores

The Power of Audience Reviews

The disparity between the critic and audience scores on Rotten Tomatoes for John Wick: Chapter 2 further illustrates the subjective nature of film criticism.

• Audience Score: The audience score for Chapter 2 significantly surpasses the critic score, indicating a much higher level of satisfaction among viewers.
• Entertainment Value: Audience reviews prioritize enjoyment and entertainment, aspects which Chapter 2 excels at. Critics, on the other hand, might be more focused on narrative structure, thematic depth, or originality of concept.
• Difference in Response: This disparity highlights the disconnect between critical standards and audience preferences, suggesting that Chapter 2's strengths resonate more strongly with the average viewer.

This disconnect underscores the crucial role audience enjoyment plays in determining a film’s overall impact and legacy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while John Wick: Chapter 2 may have a lower Rotten Tomatoes rating than its successors, its groundbreaking action sequences, creative storytelling, and pivotal role in establishing the franchise's identity position it as a superior entry for many viewers. The film's innovative fight choreography, the expansion of the established lore, and its overall cinematic impact should lead to a reevaluation of its John Wick Rotten Tomatoes rating. Revisit Chapter 2, discuss the John Wick franchise and its critical reception, and reconsider your perspective on the John Wick series – you might just find yourself agreeing with the many fans who consider it the best of the bunch.