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As a die-hard fan of the John Wick franchise, I’m excitedly waiting for the release of “Ballerina” in theaters, but until then, I’ve discovered another action flick that shares the same name and might just satisfy my craving for high-octane action. It’s important to note that 2023’s “Ballerina” isn’t connected to the John Wick universe, but given its Korean revenge thriller twist, it could be a captivating choice for fellow franchise enthusiasts like myself. Ever since the debut of the first John Wick movie in 2014, there have been numerous imitators attempting to emulate its signature action style. However, only a handful of these so-called John Wick clones are truly worth watching, and even fewer manage to match the electrifying intensity of the original masterpiece.

The movie titled “John Wick: Ballerina” has been in development for quite a while now, and it’s part of several upcoming spin-offs planned for the franchise. Keanu Reeves is set to return to his role alongside Ana de Armas, ensuring some continuity with the four main films that have been released so far. The plot revolves around the Ruska Roma, a clandestine criminal organization with significant ties to John Wick’s world. Interestingly, a lesser-known Netflix thriller from 2023 bears the same name and shares similar themes, including a fondness for exhilarating fight sequences.

2023’s Ballerina Is Streaming On Netflix – What The Movie Is About

Ballerina Follows A Mysterious Woman On A Quest For Revenge

In this gritty thriller, Jeon Jong-seo plays Ok-ju, a former protective agent with a shadowy history who sets out for vengeance when her cherished friend is coerced by a malicious crime syndicate. It’s hinted that their bond might extend beyond friendship, as the friend – the titular ballerina whose life was tragically ended – pleads for Ok-ju to exact retribution on those responsible. However, Ok-ju’s investigations soon uncover a much larger criminal network, and she devises a plan to dismantle it from the inside. Remarkably, her fighting abilities surpass what one might expect from a typical bodyguard, implying that she may have a more clandestine past as an assassin.

In certain aspects, “Ballerina” follows the traditional pattern of a revenge thriller, capitalizing on the current action genre fad featuring strong female characters dishing out harsh retribution. Yet, this doesn’t diminish its enjoyment value in any way. Instead, it’s the exceptional way the film is presented that truly makes “Ballerina” a must-watch. The fight sequences are expertly staged, but they’re also filmed in inventive manners, blending overhead shots, close-up action, and dynamic camera movements to produce a lively yet visually sleek style. The setting and narrative are also noteworthy, contributing significantly to the enhancement of “Ballerina”‘s ordinary aspects.

How 2023’s Ballerina Compares To John Wick’s Ballerina

There Are A Few Similarities Between The Two Movies

Before we can fully grasp the entire storyline of “From the World of John Wick: Ballerina”, it won’t be until its release. However, the trailer offers some tantalizing glimpses that seem reminiscent of the 2023 film “Ballerina”. While both films share the distinctive fighting style of the John Wick series, it’s important to note that 2023’s “Ballerina” is not a direct sequel. Both movies revolve around young women with extraordinary combat skills, as evidenced by the trailer for “Ballerina”, which depicts Ana de Armas wielding firearms and engaging in close-combat. Additionally, both films appear to share a neon-infused visual style that has become synonymous with the John Wick franchise.

Just like John Wick, the Ballerina spinoff seems to be a story centered around revenge, as Ana de Armas’ character Eve seeks vengeance against those who killed her family. This theme is reminiscent of Ok-ju’s quest for revenge in 2023’s Ballerina, although it was her friend who took her own life instead of her family being murdered. A notable difference between the two films is that Ok-ju isn’t a ballerina, whereas Eve belongs to the Ruska Roma, whose dance academy serves as a front for training assassins. It appears that Ballerina will incorporate dance into its action sequences, much like the 2023 film did.

The similarities between the two films titled “Ballerina” are limited, mainly due to the significantly larger budget of the “John Wick”-style version. This allows for bigger name actors and more action sequences. Consequently, the upcoming 2023’s “Ballerina” serves as an excellent prelude for enthusiasts of the “John Wick” series. By the film’s end, Ok-ju embarks on a new mission to free other women held captive by a syndicate, adopting the title “The Ballerina“. Regardless of whether a sequel materializes or not, 2023’s Ballerina stands as an ideal companion piece to the latest installment in the John Wick series.

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2025-05-31 16:11