John Wick Franchise: Why Chapter 2 Has The Lowest Rotten Tomatoes Rating

Natalie Brooks

5 min read

Post on May 12, 2025

4.4

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A Less Focused Narrative

John Wick: Chapter 2 introduced a more complex plot compared to the original, potentially overwhelming some viewers and critics. The streamlined, revenge-focused narrative of the first film gave way to multiple storylines and subplots, diluting the emotional core that resonated so strongly with audiences. This shift impacted the overall pacing and character development.

• More expansive plot than the first film, diluting the focus. The introduction of the Italian crime syndicate and the expanding world of assassins, while adding depth to the franchise's lore, arguably detracted from the central narrative involving John Wick's personal journey. The original film's laser focus on revenge allowed for a more impactful emotional connection.

• Introduction of new characters that didn't fully resonate with audiences. While characters like Cassian were well-acted, their introduction and their roles in the narrative may not have been as impactful or memorable as the supporting characters in the first film.

• Pacing issues, with some scenes feeling rushed or less impactful. The increased number of plot threads resulted in a slightly uneven pacing. Certain scenes felt rushed, while others dragged, preventing the film from maintaining the same consistent tension and momentum as its predecessor.

• Less emphasis on John Wick's personal vendetta compared to the first movie. The first film's emotional core stemmed from John Wick's grief and his desire for vengeance. Chapter 2, while still featuring moments of personal conflict, broadened its scope to a larger, more intricate world, potentially diluting the impact of John Wick's emotional journey.

Diminished Impact of the Action Sequences

While John Wick: Chapter 2 undeniably delivered impressive action sequences, some critics felt they lacked the raw, visceral impact of the original. The sheer volume of action, while impressive, may have, paradoxically, lessened the impact of individual set pieces. The innovative gun-fu style, while still present, possibly felt less groundbreaking in the sequel.

• Increased reliance on wider shots, potentially diminishing the close-quarters intensity. The cinematography choices in Chapter 2 sometimes prioritized broader shots of the action, reducing the intimate, visceral feel of the close-quarters combat that defined the first film.

• Some felt the action was less innovative compared to the groundbreaking fight choreography of the first film. The original John Wick revolutionized action cinema with its innovative choreography. While Chapter 2 maintained a high standard, some felt it didn't reach the same level of groundbreaking innovation.

• The sheer volume of action might have led to viewer fatigue. The near-constant action, while exciting, may have overwhelmed some viewers, leading to a sense of fatigue and diminishing returns.

• Potential overuse of certain action tropes. The reliance on certain action set pieces and tropes, while effective, may have felt less unique or memorable compared to the originality of the first film's fight sequences.

Comparison to the Original's Success

The phenomenal success of the first John Wick film set incredibly high expectations. The sequel, while undoubtedly a good action film, may have simply failed to meet these exceptionally high standards, leading to harsher critical reviews in comparison. This is a common phenomenon with successful sequels.

• High benchmark set by the original film's originality and impact. The first John Wick film was a revelation, introducing a unique world and action style. Chapter 2, while building upon this foundation, had the unenviable task of living up to such an innovative predecessor.

• Critics and audiences compared Chapter 2 directly to the first, potentially influencing the perception of its quality. The inevitable comparisons to the original, a cinematic benchmark, arguably led to a harsher judgment of Chapter 2's merits.

• The novelty of the gun-fu style might have worn off slightly for some viewers. The innovative gun-fu style of the first film was a major selling point. The sequel, while incorporating this style, may not have felt as fresh or groundbreaking to some viewers.

• Sequel fatigue – sometimes the second film doesn't quite live up to the original. This is a common occurrence in film franchises. The high bar set by the first film made it harder for Chapter 2 to achieve the same level of critical acclaim.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while John Wick: Chapter 2 remains a thrilling action film, several factors likely contributed to its lower Rotten Tomatoes score compared to its predecessors. A less focused narrative, potentially less impactful action sequences, and the high expectations set by the original all played a significant role. Ultimately, understanding these elements provides insight into the critical reception of this installment in the John Wick franchise. If you're interested in exploring further, research the critical consensus on each John Wick film and compare their storylines and action scenes to better understand the nuances of the franchise’s critical reception and the reasons behind the John Wick Chapter 2 lower Rotten Tomatoes score. Do you agree with the lower rating for John Wick Chapter 2? Let us know in the comments!