The highly anticipated “Ballerina,” the latest cinematic offering from the “John Wick” universe, has officially pirouetted onto the big screen, with its wide release on June 6, 2025. Starring the formidable Ana de Armas in the titular role of Eve Macarro, this action-thriller promises to expand the beloved assassin underworld, offering a fresh perspective while staying true to the franchise’s signature blend of brutal choreography and intricate world-building.
Directed by Len Wiseman and penned by Shay Hatten, “Ballerina” is positioned chronologically between the events of “John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum” and “Chapter 4.” The narrative centers on Eve, a ballerina trained in the deadly traditions of the Ruska Roma, a clandestine organization that doubles as a ballet academy for orphans. Driven by a relentless quest for vengeance, Eve seeks to track down and eliminate the mysterious “Chancellor” (played by Gabriel Byrne) and the “Cult” responsible for the murder of her father.
Early critical reception for “Ballerina” has been generally positive, though not without nuance. While the film currently holds a “Rotten” score of 71% on Rotten Tomatoes from critics, falling below the mainline “John Wick” films, the audience score tells a different story. With an impressive 93% “Popcornmeter” rating, “Ballerina” has tied with “John Wick: Chapter 4” for the highest audience score in the entire franchise. This suggests a strong disconnect between critical evaluation and audience enjoyment, with moviegoers enthusiastically embracing this new chapter.
Critics often highlight Ana de Armas’s compelling performance as a major strength. Reviewers praise her ability to seamlessly transition from a refined dancer to a lethal assassin, delivering a captivating and physically demanding portrayal of Eve. Her fight scenes, often described as creatively brutal, are a definite highlight, showcasing her prowess as an action star. Many acknowledge that de Armas confidently carries the weight of the lead role, never being overshadowed even with the cameo appearances from franchise stalwarts like Keanu Reeves as John Wick, Ian McShane as Winston, and the late Lance Reddick as Charon.
However, some critical reviews point to weaknesses in the film’s plot, citing a lack of cohesive narrative and an overreliance on exposition in its early stages. While the “John Wick” universe is renowned for its intricate lore, some felt “Ballerina” rehashed existing world-building elements without significantly expanding upon them. Despite these criticisms, the film is lauded for its high-octane action sequences, particularly once Eve’s vengeance quest truly takes hold. Audiences have particularly enjoyed unique action moments, such as a plate-smashing contest and an inventive flamethrower duel, which inject a fresh dose of the franchise’s characteristic absurdity.
The film’s success with audiences is a significant win for the “John Wick” franchise, especially following the mixed reception of the Peacock series “The Continental.” “Ballerina” demonstrates that the universe can successfully branch out with new protagonists and storylines, as long as it retains the core elements that fans love: intense action, a compelling lead, and a continued exploration of its intriguing underworld. The positive audience response also bodes well for future spin-offs, with projects like a Caine spin-off starring Donnie Yen and an animated series already in development, and the possibility of a “John Wick 5” still on the horizon.
“Ballerina” invites audiences to witness a fresh, yet familiar, take on the world of assassins. Ana de Armas’s powerful portrayal of Eve, combined with the franchise’s signature blend of style and visceral action, ensures that this “John Wick” spin-off dances to its own rhythm while still hitting all the right notes for fans.