Ana de Armas brings elegance, ferocity, and depth to the action genre in Ballerina, the highly anticipated spin-off of the John Wick franchise. Directed by Len Wiseman, this film expands the John Wick universe with a gripping tale of vengeance, honor, and survival. While staying true to the franchise’s signature style of expertly choreographed action sequences, Ballerina sets itself apart by exploring themes of resilience and the emotional toll of revenge through its protagonist, played masterfully by Ana de Armas.
A Natural Fit in the John Wick Universe
In Ballerina, de Armas plays Rooney, a highly skilled assassin trained in a ballet academy that doubles as a deadly training ground—a concept introduced briefly in John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum. The character’s backstory is one of loss, pain, and unrelenting determination, as she embarks on a mission to avenge the brutal murder of her family. De Armas’ portrayal injects the narrative with vulnerability and complexity, elevating it beyond a typical revenge plot.
The John Wick universe has always balanced gritty, hard-hitting action with stylized aesthetics and world-building, and Ballerina is no exception. However, the film leans into a more intimate exploration of its protagonist, providing a fresh perspective in a franchise traditionally dominated by male leads. De Armas’ Rooney is no mere carbon copy of Keanu Reeves’ John Wick—she brings her unique flair and emotional depth to the character, making her both relatable and formidable.
Ana de Armas: A Star Reborn
Ana de Armas has steadily risen as one of Hollywood’s most versatile talents. From her breakout role in Blade Runner 2049 to her Oscar-nominated performance in Blonde, she has proven her ability to command the screen across genres. In Ballerina, she dives headfirst into action, building on her experience in films like No Time to Die, where she delivered a standout performance in a limited role.
De Armas underwent rigorous training to prepare for the physically demanding role. From mastering intricate fight choreography to embodying the grace of a trained ballerina, her dedication shines through in every scene. Critics have already highlighted her seamless blending of elegance and ferocity, a combination that sets her apart as an action star.
Revenge with a Human Touch
At its core, Ballerina explores the cost of revenge, a recurring theme in the John Wick franchise. However, the film takes a more introspective approach, focusing on Rooney’s emotional journey. The narrative examines the thin line between justice and vengeance, as well as the psychological scars that come with pursuing retribution.
Rooney’s quest is deeply personal, and the film delves into her memories, motivations, and moments of doubt. Through flashbacks and subtle character development, the audience gains insight into her pain and resilience. This emotional depth adds a layer of authenticity to the high-octane action, making the stakes feel higher and the character’s triumphs more rewarding.
Expanding the John Wick Mythos
Ballerina enriches the John Wick universe by exploring its hidden corners. The movie delves deeper into the world of The Ruska Roma, the shadowy organization that trained both Rooney and John Wick. Viewers are treated to new layers of the assassin underworld, including a closer look at the rigorous training regimens and brutal trials faced by its members.
The film also features appearances from familiar faces, including Ian McShane as Winston and Lance Reddick as Charon, tying it closely to the broader franchise. These cameos add continuity and provide a sense of scale, reminding audiences of the interconnected world these characters inhabit.
Action Redefined
The John Wick franchise is renowned for its innovative action choreography, and Ballerina continues this tradition while incorporating unique elements of its own. Len Wiseman brings a distinct visual style to the film, blending the balletic grace of its protagonist with brutal, high-impact fight sequences. The action is both visceral and artful, featuring seamless transitions between hand-to-hand combat, weaponry, and environmental stunts.
One standout sequence involves Rooney taking on a group of assassins in an abandoned opera house. The setting allows for creative use of props, including stage equipment and ballet-related tools, resulting in a visually stunning and adrenaline-pumping scene. These moments showcase the meticulous attention to detail that has become a hallmark of the franchise.
A Strong Supporting Cast
In addition to de Armas, Ballerina boasts a stellar supporting cast. Anjelica Huston reprises her role as the Director, offering mentorship and cryptic wisdom to Rooney. Norman Reedus adds a gritty charm as a fellow assassin with questionable loyalties, while Gabriel Byrne delivers a memorable performance as the film’s main antagonist.
These characters add depth and variety to the story, providing both allies and adversaries for Rooney to navigate. Their interactions flesh out the world and keep the narrative engaging, ensuring that every scene feels purposeful.
A Testament to Female-Led Action
Ballerina is part of a growing wave of female-led action films that challenge the genre’s traditional norms. Following in the footsteps of movies like Atomic Blonde and The Old Guard, it proves that female protagonists can bring fresh perspectives to action storytelling. De Armas’ Rooney is not only a skilled fighter but also a nuanced character whose struggles and triumphs resonate on a deeper level.
This representation is significant, as it signals a shift in Hollywood’s approach to action films. Ballerina avoids the pitfalls of tokenism or over-simplification, presenting its protagonist as a fully realized individual who commands the audience’s attention and empathy.
Reception and Impact
Early reviews of Ballerina have been largely positive, with critics praising Ana de Armas’ performance and the film’s commitment to expanding the John Wick universe. While some have noted that the plot occasionally follows familiar tropes, the movie’s execution and emotional resonance set it apart.
Fans of the franchise have expressed excitement about the possibility of more spin-offs, with Ballerina serving as a blueprint for how to successfully branch out from a beloved series. The film’s success could pave the way for further exploration of the assassin underworld, giving rise to new characters and stories.
Conclusion
Ballerina is a triumph on multiple levels. It not only expands the John Wick universe but also redefines the action genre through its focus on emotional depth and character-driven storytelling. Ana de Armas delivers a powerhouse performance, proving herself as a capable action star while bringing grace and humanity to the role.
As audiences flock to theaters, Ballerina is poised to become a standout entry in the John Wick saga, solidifying its place as a bold and innovative addition to the franchise. By redefining revenge with elegance and grit, Ana de Armas and Ballerina have carved out a unique space in the ever-evolving world of action cinema.