“The Continental: From the World of John Wick” is a TV series that serves as a prequel to the “John Wick” movie franchise
. The series follows the story of a young Winston, played by Mel Gibson, as he becomes the owner of the Continental Hotel in 1970s New York. Unfortunately, the series has received negative reviews from critics who have criticized its lack of style, verve, and interesting and exciting bloodshed. While some have praised the initial heist and closing shootout, most of the series has been described as a hollow imitation of the “John Wick” movies. Overall, it seems that “The Continental” has failed to live up to the expectations of fans of the franchise.
The opening fight scene from ‘THE CONTINENTAL: FROM THE WORLD OF JOHN WICK’ has been released.
The series premieres on September 22 on Peacock. pic.twitter.com/KtEGLhB5FW
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) September 14, 2023
“The Continental: From the World of John Wick” is a three-night special event on Peacock that delves into the intriguing backstory of one of John Wick’s most enigmatic characters, Winston. Set in the gritty world of assassins, this crime thriller takes us on a journey to 1970s New York City, where a young Winston Scott confronts a past he thought he’d left behind.
Colin Waddell delivers a compelling performance as the younger Winston, showcasing both integrity and compassion amidst the relentless violence that defines this world. Mel Gibson’s portrayal of the maniacal Cormic is a standout, with moments of calmness that reveal his true villainy.
The series maintains the spirit of the John Wick films with intense action sequences, brutal hand-to-hand combat, and frenzied gunfights that are expertly choreographed and filmed. The 1970s aesthetic adds to the immersion, creating a seedy and foreboding atmosphere inside the Continental.
While the core narrative, centered on Winston’s quest for revenge, is engaging, the series introduces unnecessary subplots and characters that feel like distractions. Some of these storylines don’t lead anywhere meaningful, and a few characters could have been omitted without affecting the overall plot.
One drawback is the lack of real peril for the characters, as some outcomes feel too predictable and protective of the protagonists. However, the series still manages to build tension and suspense effectively.
What are the main criticisms of The Continental: From the World of John Wick
The main criticisms of “The Continental: From the World of John Wick” are:
1. Lack of style, verve, and interesting and exciting bloodshed.
2. Too many shadows and too little substance.
3. Commitment to actual historical events, questions of sexism and racism, and thin commentary on the gap between NYC’s[2].
4. Lack of style or verve that can make the journey worthwhile.
5. Unwatchable casting choice.
6. Built on a miscalculation that both misses that outlandish.
What is the reception of The Continental: From the World of John Wick by fans and critics
“The Continental: From the World of John Wick” has received negative reviews from both fans and critics. Critics have criticized the show’s lack of style, verve, and interesting and exciting bloodshed. They have also criticized the show’s commitment to actual historical events, questions of sexism and racism, and thin commentary on the gap between NYC’s. Some have praised the initial heist and closing shootout, but most of the series has been described as a hollow imitation of the “John Wick” movies[5]. Overall, it seems that “The Continental” has failed to live up to the expectations of fans of the franchise.
In summary, “The Continental” successfully captures the merciless action and vengeful essence of the John Wick films. It provides a deeper understanding of Winston’s character while delivering explosive, chaotic, and bloody thrills. Despite some narrative hiccups, this Peacock special event is a must-watch for fans of the John Wick universe, earning it a solid three and a half out of five couches. If you crave savage action intertwined with stylized brutality, this series delivers in spades.
Citations:
[1] https://www.indiewire.com/criticism/shows/the-continental-review-john-wick-tv-show-1234906575/
[2] https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/the_continental/s01
[3] https://variety.com/2023/tv/tv-reviews/the-continental-review-john-wick-1235725060/
[4] https://www.thedailybeast.com/obsessed/john-wick-series-the-continental-review-mel-gibson-is-unwatchable
[5] https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-reviews/the-continental-from-the-world-of-john-wick-review-mel-gibson-1235593939/
[6] https://www.vulture.com/article/the-continental-world-of-john-wick-spinoff-series-peacock-review.html
