Ana de Armas takes center stage in Ballerina, the latest addition to the John Wick franchise, which premiered in U.S. theaters on June 6, 2025. Directed by Len Wiseman, this action thriller introduces audiences to Eve Macarro, a ballerina-turned-assassin driven by vengeance. Set between the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum and Chapter 4, the film delves deeper into the franchise’s intricate world of assassins and secret societies.
A New Heroine Takes the Lead
In Ballerina, de Armas portrays Eve Macarro, a gifted ballet dancer trained under the enigmatic Ruska Roma. Her seemingly graceful life is shattered when her family is brutally murdered, sending her on a relentless path of retribution. As Eve uncovers the network behind the attack, she transforms into a lethal force, navigating a world of codes, contracts, and clandestine violence.
The character of Eve was first hinted at in Parabellum, and Ballerina builds upon that brief introduction by fleshing out her backstory, motives, and connections within the underworld. Her journey mirrors John Wick’s in many ways, yet brings a fresh emotional depth and a distinctly feminine perspective to the series’ central themes of loss, loyalty, and revenge.
Returning Icons and New Faces
Ballerina bridges the existing lore with appearances from several franchise stalwarts. Ian McShane reprises his role as Winston Scott, the manager of the Continental Hotel, a central hub in the assassin community. The late Lance Reddick delivers one of his final performances as Charon, the loyal concierge whose composed demeanor masks formidable skill.
Anjelica Huston returns as the Director, Eve’s stern mentor and the head of the Ruska Roma. These familiar faces not only ground the film within the broader Wick narrative but also expand its emotional and philosophical dimensions. Their interactions with Eve reveal the high stakes and moral complexities of their world.
Keanu Reeves makes a memorable cameo as John Wick, offering guidance and a few pivotal lines that link Eve’s vendetta to his own legendary saga. While brief, his appearance lends continuity and adds a layer of mentorship that enriches the narrative.
New characters also make their mark. Gabriel Byrne plays the Chancellor, a powerful figure in the High Table who serves as the film’s primary antagonist. His chilling performance anchors the film’s conflict, as Eve squares off against an enemy far more connected and protected than she anticipated. Norman Reedus, known for his gritty roles, appears as Daniel Pine, a rogue assassin with ambiguous allegiances who may be friend or foe.
Action and Atmosphere
True to the franchise’s reputation, Ballerina features meticulously choreographed action scenes. From balletic fight sequences in ornate theaters to brutal confrontations in shadowy alleys, the film combines elegance and violence in a uniquely stylized fashion. De Armas trained extensively for the role, and her physicality and grace elevate the combat scenes, making them both visceral and visually striking.
The cinematography reflects the moody, neon-lit aesthetic fans have come to expect, but adds a dreamlike quality to flashbacks and character moments. These artistic flourishes enhance the emotional stakes, giving the audience a deeper investment in Eve’s journey.
Reception and Future Implications
Ballerina has received a warm reception from audiences and critics alike. De Armas’s performance is widely praised for its intensity and nuance, solidifying her status as a leading action star. The film’s balance of high-octane action and character-driven storytelling sets it apart in a crowded genre.
Importantly, the movie successfully expands the John Wick universe without relying solely on nostalgia. It offers new angles, fresh characters, and deeper insights into the rules and rituals of the assassin world. By doing so, it opens the door for future spin-offs and sequels centered around characters introduced in this chapter.
The Evolving Franchise
With Ballerina, the John Wick series continues its evolution from a singular revenge tale into a sprawling cinematic universe. The film’s focus on a female protagonist and its deeper exploration of the Ruska Roma add diversity and richness to the narrative landscape. Fans can expect more standalone stories that build upon this momentum, with potential crossovers and interconnected plots that deepen the mythology.
Ana de Armas’s portrayal of Eve Macarro marks a compelling new era for the franchise. Her character embodies strength, vulnerability, and resolve, making her both a worthy successor and a distinct force within the Wick legacy. As the universe expands, Ballerina sets a high standard for what comes next.
