Ballerina has made waves in the cinematic landscape, achieving a remarkable Rotten Tomatoes record alongside the John Wick franchise. Led by the formidable Ana de Armas as Eve Macarro, this first spinoff sees her embroiled in a vengeful quest against a shadowy organization known as the Cult. Despite facing multiple delays and added reshoots, Ballerina has finally graced theaters, receiving a generally favorable critical reception. ScreenRant‘s Rachel Labonte awarded the film a 6 out of 10, highlighting de Armas’ compelling performance, yet pointing out lapses in the plot and a somewhat ridiculous villain. Ultimately, the spinoff holds a 71% on Rotten Tomatoes, marking the lowest score amongst its franchise counterparts.
Significantly, Ballerina has now tied with John Wick: Chapter 4 for the best audience score in the series’ history. Garnering over 500 audience ratings, it boasts an impressive 93% Popcornmeter. While this rating may fluctuate as more viewers engage with the film, it suggests that audiences are embracing it even more passionately than critics.
|
John Wick Movies & Series |
Critical Rotten Tomatoes Score |
Audience Rotten Tomatoes Score |
|---|---|---|
|
John Wick (2014) |
86% |
82% |
|
John Wick: Chapter 2 (2017) |
89% |
85% |
|
John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum (2019) |
89% |
86% |
|
John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023) |
94% |
93% |
|
The Continental (2023) |
63% |
77% |
|
Ballerina (2025) |
71% |
93% |
Why The Rotten Tomatoes Audience For Ballerina Is A Big Win For John Wick Franchise
It Overcomes The Few Shortcomings Since John Wick: Chapter 4
The audience’s enthusiastic response to Ballerina is a significant milestone for the franchise. Notably, it signifies the first major spinoff success after the lukewarm reception of the Peacock series, The Continental. The series managed a fresh critical rating of 63% with a 77% audience score, but it failed to meet the high expectations set by the main films. Ballerina serves as a true cinematic entry, showcasing the world of John Wick through a compelling narrative. Speculation surrounding its reshoots and delays has diminished due to the overwhelming positive reception.
The film’s greatest asset lies in its electrifying action sequences and Ana de Armas’ commanding presence. Critics may argue that the plot lacks cohesiveness, yet the movie compensates with unrestrained violence, showcasing Eve’s relentless pursuit of vengeance against those responsible for her father’s death. The intensity of the fight scenes might even surpass those in the original series. Keanu Reeves retains his iconic role, yet de Armas significantly contributes, performing intricate stunts that confirm her status as an emerging action star.
Our Take On Ballerina’s Rotten Tomatoes Record
It Brings Excitement To The Franchise’s Future
The positive audience feedback indicates a promising future for the John Wick franchise. Despite minor shortcomings in recent installments, interest in this expansive universe remains strong, particularly concerning forthcoming spinoffs. Ballerina reinforces the franchise’s potential, highlighting that it can thrive as long as it incorporates high-energy action, a standout protagonist, and an enriching narrative scope. Future projects, including Donnie Yen’s Caine spinoff, an animated series, and the anticipated John Wick 5, are already in the works.
While Ballerina may have had a leg up with John Wick’s inclusion, the same may not apply to the Caine spinoff. However, anticipation surrounds this developing project, especially with Yen at the helm and an emphasis on martial arts, guaranteeing a fresh flair distinct from the primary series. Chad Stahelski has confirmed that plans for a fifth John Wick installment are still nascent. Nevertheless, Ballerina has reignited enthusiasm since Chapter 4, proving that fighting like a girl is a powerful statement, energizing fans for what lies ahead.
Source: Rotten Tomatoes