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Cinema Royale

Re-Entering The Universe Of John Wick With 'Ballerina'

·24 min·2 clips
Travis Hopson refuses to use the official title 'Ballerina from the World of John Wick,' calling it weird SEO magic.
The episode begins with Travis Hopson and Chris Bumbray critiquing the official title 'Ballerina from the World of John Wick,' which Travis calls weird SEO magic. They agree the film stands well on its own, with Chris noting it's one of the better pure action films of a weak year. The plot involves Ana de Armas as Roza, an orphan trained as an assassin seeking revenge. Chris shares a personal anecdote about interviewing Ana de Armas, describing being starstruck. They discuss the film's setting between 'John Wick: Chapter 3' and 'Chapter 4,' and its high percentage of action. The hosts distinguish between action scenes directed by Len Wiseman and those punched up by Chad Stahelski, citing specific sequences like the restaurant fight. They criticize Lionsgate's embargo that only allowed positive reactions, linking it to the studio's track record. Comparisons are made to other 2024 action films like 'The Beekeeper' and 'Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning,' with Chris preferring 'Ballerina.' The conversation shifts to actor Daniel Bernhardt, noting his recurring role as a fight opponent for stars like Keanu Reeves and Jason Statham. They discuss Len Wiseman's directorial hiatus since 'Total Recall' 13 years ago and his return to a major franchise. Speculation includes potential appearances by Ana de Armas in future John Wick films and the franchise's expansion. The episode concludes with brief mentions of other films like 'F1' and 'How to Train Your Dragon,' before wrapping up the 'Ballerina' review.

As heard by us

A brisk Ballerina discussion that weighs awkward John Wick branding against strong action craft.

Cinema Royale's take on Ballerina starts with Travis Hobson bristling at the film's full franchise title, which he hears as clumsy, search-friendly branding that makes the movie sound smaller than it is.

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Why you'd press play

Press play for Travis Hobson and Chris Bumbray sorting out whether Ballerina works as more than a John Wick side quest.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →
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