Ballerina: A John Wick Story

A New Kind of Assassin

Unlike John Wick’s brutal, relentless approach, Rooney moves with graceful lethality. Her training at the Ruska Roma ballet academy—previously glimpsed in Chapter 3—has shaped her into both a performer and a killer. Ana de Armas delivers a fierce, emotionally charged performance, blending vulnerability with cold efficiency.

The film explores Rooney’s transformation from victim to predator, as she navigates a maze of corrupt crime lords, shadowy allies, and brutal enemies. Flashbacks to her past—including her days on stage and in training—add layers of depth and tragedy to her character.

Familiar Faces and World-Building

Ballerina continues to build the assassin mythology that made the John Wick series so iconic. The Continental Hotel returns, along with its strict codes and cryptic leadership. Keanu Reeves appears in a supporting role as John Wick, offering guidance—and a few bullets—at key moments.

Other franchise veterans also appear, including Ian McShane as Winston and the late Lance Reddick as Charon in one of his final performances, adding emotional weight and continuity to the film.

Style, Action, and Reception

True to the John Wick legacy, Ballerina is visually stunning, blending balletic choreography with brutal action sequences. Wiseman’s direction brings a unique flair, mixing neon-drenched cityscapes with operatic fight scenes that feel both artistic and intense.

Critics have praised the film’s fresh tone. Variety described it as “a fierce and graceful addition to the Wickverse,” while The Hollywood Reporter hailed Ana de Armas as “a powerful new lead in a world of killers.” The action, while stylized, never overshadows the character-driven core of the film.

Final Verdict

Ballerina: A John Wick Story proves that the John Wick universe still has plenty of room to grow—especially with fresh perspectives and strong female leads. Ana de Armas steps confidently into the franchise’s bloodstained ballet slippers, delivering a performance that’s both deadly and deeply human.

With a perfect blend of art and action, vengeance and vulnerability, Ballerina stands tall as more than just a spin-off—it’s a statement. The ballet is beautiful, but deadly. And in this world, every step could be your last.