Ballerina: A Wickverse Expansion or a Misfire?
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The John Wick universe continues to expand with Ballerina, starring Ana de Armas as Eve, a ballerina assassin seeking revenge during the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum. While anticipation was high, early box office numbers and critical reception paint a mixed picture for this spinoff.
Box Office Performance: A Sluggish Start
Ballerina opened to a reported $25 million at the domestic box office, landing in second place behind Disney's Lilo & Stitch. This figure is lower than initial projections, which estimated a $35 million+ debut, and marks the lowest opening for a John Wick film since the original in 2014. The film's performance has sparked debate about whether the John Wick franchise has reached its peak.
Critical Reception: A Mixed Bag
Critics are divided on Ballerina. Some praise Ana de Armas's performance and the creatively brutal action choreography, while others criticize the film's plot and editing. One review suggests the movie feels like “a mash up of two different visions.” However, the film did receive an A- CinemaScore and strong audience scores on Rotten Tomatoes (94%) and PostTrak, indicating that general audiences are enjoying it more than some critics.
What Works?
- Ana de Armas: Many reviews highlight de Armas's steely presence and physical prowess in the action sequences.
- Action Choreography: The film promises creatively brutal action sequences, a hallmark of the John Wick franchise.
- Wickverse Expansion: Ballerina delves deeper into the assassin underworld and its intricate rules.
Potential Issues?
- Plot Coherence: Some reviews suggest the plot is convoluted or lacks coherence.
- John Wick Fatigue?: The performance raises questions about whether audiences are tiring of the John Wick formula.
- Missing Keanu?: While Keanu Reeves makes an appearance, the lack of a strong John Wick presence may disappoint some fans.
Ballerina's long-term success will depend on its ability to maintain audience interest and overcome mixed critical reviews. Whether it will pirouette gracefully or stumble remains to be seen. The film's solid audience scores suggest it could have staying power.