While “The Continental” deserves praise for its effort, “John Wick: Chapter 4” may have established an unreachable standard for action films. Serving as a prequel to the John Wick series, “The Continental” is set in the 1970s and delves into the origins of the eponymous establishment. Within the established John Wick universe, the show meticulously replicates the aesthetic, atmosphere, and ambiance of the films led by Keanu Reeves as the legendary assassin.
The premiere episode of “The Continental” succeeds in capturing the essence of the franchise, from the meticulously crafted setting of The Continental in New York to the sophisticated demeanor of its characters. However, while the action sequences are impressive on their own, they inevitably fall short compared to the unparalleled action showcased in “John Wick: Chapter 4.” This inadvertently raises the bar to a level that may prove challenging for spin-offs of the franchise to match.
