The Rewatchables: ‘John Wick’ with Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Shea Serrano

Release Date: September 17, 2024

Introduction and Context

In this episode of The Rewatchables, host Bill Simmons along with guests Chris Ryan and Shea Serrano delve deep into the John Wick franchise. They explore why John Wick stands out as one of the most rewatchable action movies of the 21st century, analyzing its impact on the genre, Keanu Reeves' performance, and the intricate world-building that has captivated audiences worldwide.

Keanu Reeves’ Career and John Wick’s Impact

The discussion begins with a reflection on Keanu Reeves' career trajectory. Simmons recounts how, back in 2014 at Grantland, John Wick was initially overlooked despite high recommendations from colleagues like Mark Losanti.

Bill Simmons [03:20]: "Keanu was not a candidate. But then, John Wick came out and changed everything."

Chris Ryan praises Reeves for his ability to reinvent himself, noting that every time he seems to be in a lull, Reeves returns with a fresh and compelling role.

Chris Ryan [04:24]: "Keanu revolutionized action movies twice, at least in America, by interpreting a lot of Asian genre filmmaking styles and bringing them over to the States."

Shea Serrano highlights how the John Wick series solidifies Reeves as the paramount action star of the modern era, comparing his enduring presence to legends like Stallone and Schwarzenegger.

Shea Serrano [06:25]: "This movie cements him as the greatest modern action movie star that we've had."

Action Sequences Analysis

A significant portion of the podcast is dedicated to dissecting the film’s action sequences, particularly the innovative choreography and tactical combat that set it apart from traditional action flicks. The trio praises the nightclub scene in John Wick as a masterpiece of sustained action and storytelling.

Bill Simmons [44:45]: "The nightclub fight is one of the greatest action sequences ever. It's a seven-minute long song of violence and precision."

They discuss how the fight scenes adhere to the movie’s internal logic, making every move and kill feel both impactful and believable. The wide shots and minimal CGI maintain a raw and authentic feel, which Chris Ryan attributes to the filmmakers’ homage to Asian cinema.

Craig Horbick [11:30]: "Everything Wick does is governed by the laws of the movie. It feels so real."

Shea Serrano appreciates the practical combat styles, emphasizing Wick's use of body weight and martial arts, which contrasts with the more fantastical elements of previous Keanu Reeves films like The Matrix.

Shea Serrano [40:06]: "He's using so much of his own body weight and counterweight in the fights. It's such a smart decision."

Character and World Building

The podcast delves into the rich lore of the John Wick universe, focusing on elements like the Continental hotel and the use of gold coins as currency. The guests commend how the movie introduces these concepts subtly, providing just enough information to intrigue without overwhelming the audience.

Bill Simmons [26:24]: "The Continental is brought to life with these subtle rules that make you crave to learn more about this alternate underworld."

Shea Serrano points out the effective world-building that makes the audience invested in John Wick's journey, appreciating the balance between mystery and exposition.

Shea Serrano [28:10]: "They give you enough to understand but not enough that you know everything. Like the coins or the dinner reservation for 12."

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

The trio highlights several standout scenes and quotes that have become iconic within the franchise. The introduction of John Wick’s character, his most intense fight scenes, and pivotal moments like the loss of his dog are discussed in detail.

Chris Ryan [45:09]: "The nightclub scene is the best seven minutes of any action movie I've ever seen. It's non-stop, brilliantly executed violence."

They also revisit memorable quotes that encapsulate Wick's character and the film's themes of revenge and honor.

Bill Simmons [36:08]: "Viggo says, 'We're gonna have bounties. We're gonna have rewards for our misdeeds.' It's a great way to justify the universe's rules."

Behind-the-Scenes Insights

Insights into the making of John Wick reveal the dedication of the cast and crew, particularly Keanu Reeves' intensive training regimen and commitment to performing his own stunts. The hosts discuss the challenges faced during production, such as budget constraints and stunt coordination.

Bill Simmons [82:18]: "Keanu trained in judo, Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and arnis. His dedication is evident in every fight scene."

Shea Serrano shares anecdotes about the actors' experiences on set, including John Leguizamo’s impressive performance despite limited screen time.

Shea Serrano [74:00]: "John Leguizamo was perfect in this movie. He just drops in, does his thing, and leaves us wanting more."

Conclusion

Bill Simmons wraps up the episode by affirming John Wick as a revolutionary action series that has redefined the genre through its meticulous choreography, compelling storytelling, and Keanu Reeves’ stellar performance. The hosts express excitement for the franchise's future installments and its expanding universe, including prequels and spinoffs.

Bill Simmons [85:30]: "It's the most efficient world-building in an action movie I've ever seen. The writing and emotional stakes are just unparalleled."

Shea Serrano adds that John Wick remains highly rewatchable due to its engaging plot and memorable action sequences, making it a staple for action movie aficionados.

Shea Serrano [87:56]: "This universe is so rich and well-crafted, every time you watch it, you find something new to appreciate."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Bill Simmons [03:20]: "Keanu was not a candidate. But then, John Wick came out and changed everything."
• Chris Ryan [04:24]: "Keanu revolutionized action movies twice, at least in America, by interpreting a lot of Asian genre filmmaking styles and bringing them over to the States."
• Shea Serrano [06:25]: "This movie cements him as the greatest modern action movie star that we've had."
• Bill Simmons [44:45]: "The nightclub fight is one of the greatest action sequences ever. It's a seven-minute long song of violence and precision."
• Craig Horbick [11:30]: "Everything Wick does is governed by the laws of the movie. It feels so real."
• Shea Serrano [40:06]: "He's using so much of his own body weight and counterweight in the fights. It's such a smart decision."
• Bill Simmons [26:24]: "The Continental is brought to life with these subtle rules that make you crave to learn more about this alternate underworld."
• Shea Serrano [28:10]: "They give you enough to understand but not enough that you know everything. Like the coins or the dinner reservation for 12."
• Chris Ryan [45:09]: "The nightclub scene is the best seven minutes of any action movie I've ever seen. It's non-stop, brilliantly executed violence."
• Bill Simmons [36:08]: "Viggo says, 'We're gonna have bounties. We're gonna have rewards for our misdeeds.' It's a great way to justify the universe's rules."
• Bill Simmons [82:18]: "Keanu trained in judo, Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and arnis. His dedication is evident in every fight scene."
• Shea Serrano [74:00]: "John Leguizamo was perfect in this movie. He just drops in, does his thing, and leaves us wanting more."
• Bill Simmons [85:30]: "It's the most efficient world-building in an action movie I've ever seen. The writing and emotional stakes are just unparalleled."
• Shea Serrano [87:56]: "This universe is so rich and well-crafted, every time you watch it, you find something new to appreciate."

Final Thoughts

The Rewatchables episode on John Wick offers an in-depth analysis of why the franchise has become a modern classic. From Keanu Reeves' transformative performance to the film’s innovative action choreography and rich world-building, Simmons, Ryan, and Serrano provide listeners with compelling reasons to revisit the John Wick series time and again. Whether you're a first-time viewer or a seasoned fan, this discussion enhances the appreciation of one of the most meticulously crafted action universes in contemporary cinema.