The John Wick franchise has redefined the modern action genre with its sleek choreography, immersive world-building, and relentless pacing. What began as a straightforward revenge story in 2014 has expanded into a cinematic universe, introducing new characters, intricate lore, and now a spinoff with Ballerina. In this blog, we’re Ranking Every Film in the ‘John Wick’ Universe (Including the ‘Ballerina’ Spinoff) from worst to best, based on action sequences, storytelling, and overall fan impact.

5. Ballerina (2025)

The much-anticipated spinoff stars Ana de Armas as Rooney, a deadly assassin seeking revenge for her family’s murder. Set between the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum and Chapter 4, Ballerina expands the High Table’s world while offering a fresh perspective from a female lead.
Ranking Every Film in the ‘John Wick’ Universe – While the action sequences are visually stunning and the choreography is on par with the main series, the plot occasionally feels rushed. Fans will appreciate cameo appearances from Keanu Reeves and Ian McShane, but it doesn’t quite capture the emotional weight of the core Wick films.

4. John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum (2019)

This entry kicks off right where Chapter 2 ends, with Wick declared “excommunicado” and a $14 million bounty on his head. The film excels in set pieces — the knife fight, the library brawl, and the motorcycle chase are instant classics.
However, the story feels more like a bridge between Chapter 2 and Chapter 4, rather than a standalone narrative. Despite that, Halle Berry’s Sofia and her attack dogs steal the show, making Parabellum a fan favourite for sheer adrenaline.

3. John Wick (2014)

The original film remains iconic for its simplicity and execution. A retired assassin seeking vengeance for the death of his dog may sound straightforward, but it’s the emotional grounding and Keanu Reeves’ stoic performance that made audiences instantly connect.
The movie’s tight pacing, practical stunts, and grounded world-building laid the foundation for one of the most beloved action franchises of the 21st century. It’s smaller in scale compared to later entries but arguably the most emotionally resonant.

2. John Wick: Chapter 2 (2017)

This sequel takes everything from the first film and amplifies it — more action, more style, and a deeper dive into the assassin underworld. Wick is forced back into the game due to a blood oath, leading to showdowns in Rome and an unforgettable hall-of-mirrors fight sequence.
Chapter 2 is also where the Continental’s rules, the High Table, and the currency of gold coins are fully explored, expanding the franchise’s mythology in a satisfying way. The cliffhanger ending perfectly sets up the chaos of Parabellum.

1. John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023)

Epic in scope and visually breathtaking, Chapter 4 is widely considered the franchise’s masterpiece. Clocking in at nearly three hours, the film somehow maintains momentum through its Paris stairway fight, Osaka Continental sequence, and jaw-dropping Berlin nightclub brawl.
The emotional stakes are higher than ever, with Wick’s quest for freedom culminating in an ending that feels both tragic and poetic. Director Chad Stahelski delivers a cinematic experience that balances heart-pounding action with meaningful character moments, making it the definitive John Wick film.

Why This Ranking Matters for Fans

When Ranking Every Film in the ‘John Wick’ Universe (Including the ‘Ballerina’ Spinoff), it’s important to consider not just the body count and fight choreography, but also the story’s contribution to the overall saga. Each installment has added layers to the lore, expanded character arcs, and refined the franchise’s visual style.

Ballerina shows that the Wick universe can support side stories, even if they don’t hit the same heights as the main saga.
Chapter 3 and Chapter 2 stand out for their relentless action and world expansion.
The original John Wick remains unmatched in emotional punch.
Chapter 4 is the franchise at its creative and technical peak.

Looking Ahead

With talk of more spinoffs (The Continental series already explored the hotel’s origins) and possible future Wick-related projects, the universe is far from over. The bar has been set high, and audiences will expect every new entry to deliver the same intensity and world-class action.

As this list of Ranking Every Film in the ‘John Wick’ Universe (Including the ‘Ballerina’ Spinoff) shows, the series has managed to maintain quality while experimenting with style and storytelling. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, there’s never been a better time to dive into this bullet-riddled cinematic world.

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