John Wick: Cult Classic Assassin?. He’s got the moves, the guns, and the internet’s unwavering respect. But is John Wick a true cult classic? Here at Flikbak TV, we, as children of the 80s and 90s, dove into the world of the Baba Yaga to see if this action-packed franchise deserves a hallowed spot in the cult classics hall of fame. John Wick’s brutal efficiency with a gun instantly reminded me of action heroes like John McClane from Die Hard, but with a darker and more stylish edge.
From Underdog to Icon:
John Wick wasn’t a blockbuster juggernaut. Released in 2014, it surprised audiences with its stylish action, compelling world-building, and the glorious return of Keanu Reeves as a badass assassin. This unexpected success, coupled with a dedicated fanbase, is a hallmark of many cult classics.
A Genre-Bending Cocktail:
John Wick isn’t just about bone-crunching action sequences (though, let’s be honest, those are pretty awesome). It blends high-octane fight choreography with a neo-noir aesthetic, appealing to fans of both action and classic crime films. Think The Matrix meets film noir with a whole lot more bullets.
A World of Assassins:
John Wick doesn’t just offer thrilling action; it dives into a hidden society of assassins with its own code of conduct and ruthless hierarchy. This intricate world-building, complete with secret hotels (The Continental, anyone?) and gold coins as currency, is another element that elevates John Wick beyond a typical action flick.
Action with Soul (and Memes):
The action sequences in John Wick are a sight to behold. The innovative choreography, with its balletic gun-fu style (inspired by Hong Kong action cinema!), has earned widespread praise. Beyond the action, the film offers quotable lines (“Baba Yaga”) and memorable moments that have become fodder for endless memes. John Wick has transcended the screen and become a cultural phenomenon, with an instantly recognizable soundtrack that perfectly complements the neo-noir vibe and action sequences.
Where’d the Magic Come From? (Trivia Time!)
John Wick wasn’t born out of thin air. The creators drew inspiration from a number of sources:
- Action Film Roots: Directors Chad Stahelski and David Leitch, with a background in stunts, were heavily influenced by classic action films of the 60s and 70s, like Point Blank and films by John Woo.
- A Touch of Noir: The neo-noir aesthetic and focus on a wronged protagonist seeking revenge owe a debt to classic film noir like The Long Goodbye.
- Comic Book Cool: The creators have also credited comic book visuals as an inspiration, which is evident in the film’s stylish presentation.
The Verdict: Cult Classic Assassin
John Wick: Cult Classic Assassin?. So, is John Wick a cult classic? We say yes! Its unexpected rise to fame, genre-bending style, captivating world, and undeniable cool factor all contribute to its cult status. John Wick is more than just an action movie; it’s a stylish and thought-provoking film that has resonated with audiences and spawned a dedicated fanbase.
What do you think? Is John Wick a cult classic? Share your thoughts with Flikbak Tv and favorite John Wick moments in the comments below! Let’s keep the conversation going about this legendary assassin and his world!
John Wick is available to watch on Amazon Prime