Currently trending on Netflix is a new action film that underscores the lasting impact of the John Wick franchise on the action genre. Launched in 2014, this neo-noir series revolves around John Wick, a retired hitman drawn back into his violent past following the tragic death of his puppy at the hands of gang members. While the premise may initially seem far-fetched, the franchise has gained substantial traction and popularity over the years. To date, four main films have been released, with a spin-off titled Ballerina set to debut in 2025.
The growth of the John Wick series since its inception is remarkable, and it is no surprise that its influence continues to evolve within the action film landscape. The latest installment, John Wick: Chapter 4, received rave reviews upon its release in 2023, while Ballerina has generated considerable excitement ahead of its launch. The revitalization of revenge narratives in cinema can largely be attributed to the John Wick phenomenon, which has significantly altered how contemporary action films are crafted.
Ad Vitam is Trending on Netflix: Overview
Understanding Ad Vitam’s Rising Popularity
Image via Netflix
One of the latest additions to the action genre creating buzz is the French film Ad Vitam. This movie’s premise clearly echoes the themes popularized by John Wick. Ad Vitam follows Franck Lazareff, a former member of the French military police, who is forced to confront his violent past when his pregnant wife is abducted. What was once a distant chapter in his life resurfaces as he becomes entangled in a conspiracy far beyond what he imagined.
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Despite being the current #1 trending film on Netflix, Ad Vitam has received mixed critical reception. It holds a mere 36% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critiques highlighting its lack of depth and cohesion in storytelling. Remarkably, it has not yet garnered an audience score. Nevertheless, the film’s premise resonates with viewers, likely mirroring the appeal of John Wick’s narrative.
Contrasting Ad Vitam with John Wick
Why John Wick Stands Out
While Ad Vitam may draw parallels to John Wick, it ultimately lacks the originality and craftsmanship that elevate its predecessor. The critical response suggests that despite sharing thematic elements, Ad Vitam’s narrative fails to deliver the same level of engagement and excitement as John Wick does. Its pursuit of revenge lacks the energy and character development that have become synonymous with the Wick series.
The Influence of John Wick on Recent Action Films
What Makes John Wick So Compelling?
Ad Vitam isn’t the only recent action film influenced by the John Wick legacy; titles such as Nobody, The Beekeeper, and A Working Man also feature similar revenge-driven narratives. In The Beekeeper, a covert agent seeks vengeance for a landlady’s suffering, while Nobody follows an ordinary man’s transformation into a fierce protector after his family is threatened. These films reflect a central theme: characters who are both deeply vulnerable and tenacious when safeguarding their loved ones.
John Wick’s widespread influence can be attributed to the relatable nature of its stories. Action films traditionally offer escapism through thrilling visuals, but John Wick transcends this by weaving narratives wherein audiences can personally engage. Viewers can identify with the protagonist, imagining their reactions under similar circumstances, transforming the action from mere fantasy to a palpable reality.
Taking Cues from Taken & The Equalizer
A Look at the Future of Action Cinema
Ad Vitam is part of a broader trend in action films that builds on the groundwork laid by earlier films such as Taken (2008) and The Equalizer (2014), both of which center on similar revenge tropes. For instance, Taken narrates the story of a father utilizing his lethal skills to rescue his daughter from criminal clutches. This ongoing fascination with revenge-driven narratives indicates a prevailing trend likely to persist in action films for years to come.
| Every John Wick Movie | Release Date |
|---|---|
| John Wick | 2014 |
| John Wick: Chapter 2 | 2017 |
| John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum | 2019 |
| John Wick: Chapter 4 | 2023 |
| From The World of John Wick: Ballerina | 2025 |
| Untitled Caine Spinoff | TBA |
| Untitled Prequel | TBA |
While not every successful action movie is rooted in revenge, it is clear that this theme will continue to resonate strongly with audiences. Despite its low Rotten Tomatoes rating, Ad Vitam has managed to gain popularity on Netflix, and films like The Beekeeper have unexpectedly thrived at the box office. As such, the impact of John Wick will enduringly shape how action narratives unfold, firmly establishing it as the cornerstone of contemporary revenge cinema.
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