Ballerina

Watching "Ballerina" feels like stepping back into the high octane world of "John Wick," but this time, we're seeing things through the eyes of Eve Macarro. You kind of get that familiar vibe from the franchise, with its stylized violence and intricate lore. Set during the events of "John Wick: Chapter 3 Parabellum," it’s like they found a slice of that action packed world and decided to expand on it, focusing on Eve as she trains with the Ruska Roma. So, there’s this immediate connection to the John Wick universe, which feels familiar and fresh at the same time. eve, played by the talented Ana de Armas,is this really intriguing character. You see her evolve from someone who’s a bit lost to someone who’s fiercely determined. the training scenes are pretty intense,showcasing not just her physical prowess but also the mental fortitude needed to become an assassin. It's kind of a coming of age story wrapped in a crime thriller,which makes it different from just your regular action flick. There's a theme of belonging that runs through it. Like,Eve is searching for her place in this brutal world. You get the sense that her journey is just as much about finding herself as it is about revenge. The cinematography and choreography,as you'd expect in a movie linked to the John Wick series, are visually stunning. There are some really beautifully shot fight sequences that blend artistry with raw energy. You can tell that a lot of thought went into how everything looks on screen. But, and it’s a big but,sometimes the action feels like it’s overshadowing the story. There are moments when you kind of wish they’d take a breather and let the characters breathe more. Sure, the fight scenes are exhilarating, but,you know, sometimes less is more. It’s like they had this amazing canvas but didn’t always know when to step back and let the paint dry for a second. Something that stood out to me was how the film dives into the intricacies of the assassin underworld.

This whole Ruska Roma culture, with its traditions and codes,is fascinating. You really get a glimpse of what it takes to be part of that world, and there’s this really cool juxtaposition between Eve’s personal struggles and the community she’s trying to join. It feels a bit like a family story too, which adds layers. However, there are times when the pacing is a bit uneven. You get caught up in the whirlwind of training and action,but then the narrative slows down, and it sometimes feels a bit jarring. Like,you're in this adrenaline rush, and then suddenly, it’s like someone hit the brakes. As for the performances,Ana de Armas really shines here. she brings a vulnerability to Eve that’s hard to ignore. You feel for her; she’s not just a one dimensional character out for revenge. There are moments where you see her doubt and fear, which makes her journey more relatable. But,not gonna lie, some supporting characters don’t get as much development. It’s like they’re there to serve a purpose, which is fine, but I kinda wished for a little more depth. There’s also a bit of humor sprinkled in,which feels a bit like a nod to the original "John Wick" films. It’s not over the top, but it’s enough to lighten some of the darker themes. you need that balance, right? Because Eve’s path is dark and messy,and humor provides a nice counterpoint,even if just for a moment. The sound design plays a significant role too. The soundtrack is slick,setting the tone and heightening the suspense. you can really feel the tension in scenes where every sound feels amplified. It pulls you in and makes you feel part of the action, which is what you want in a thriller.