Ana de Armas stars in “Ballerina,” a film that combines explosive action with a quest for vengeance as her character, Eve Macarro, seeks to avenge her father’s death at the hands of a ruthless cult. The film expands on the “John Wick” universe, framing itself as an origin story for Eve, who is trained by the Ruska Roma to become an elite assassin. This character foundation, portrayed through a poignant backstory, is highlighted by the directorial vision of Len Wiseman and the writing of Shay Hatten, who both have ties to the “John Wick” series.
As the plot unfolds, we see young Eve (played by Victoria Comte) develop into a formidable assassin after suffering the loss of her father, who was murdered by Chancellor (Gabriel Byrne), the leader of the Cult. With the guidance of the Director (Anjelica Huston reprising her role) and Nogi (Sharon Duncan-Brewster), Eve faces numerous challenges as she tracks down her late father’s killers. The film showcases an array of action sequences, such as her confrontations in The Continental and a climactic fight in a snowy riverside village, which feature innovative choreography that keeps the audience engaged.
However, the film struggles to carve out its distinct identity within the “John Wick” franchise. While it attempts to focus on Eve’s character growth and her relationships with secondary characters, like Winston and the Director, these dynamics often feel underdeveloped. Critics note that unlike “John Wick,” which expertly conveys themes of grief and rage, “Ballerina” often slips into a more superficial portrayal of action that may not resonate as deeply with audiences searching for emotional investment.
Despite its shortcomings, “Ballerina” does succeed in delivering impressive action sequences and showcases Ana de Armas in a powerful lead role. The film’s narrative journey includes elements of self-discovery and the yearning for freedom, as Eve strives to uncover the truth about her father. The underlying themes of resilience and empowerment suggest a hopeful arc for future female-led action stories within the genre.
With “Ballerina” currently in theaters, audiences can witness Ana de Armas deliver a performance that embodies both vulnerability and strength, carving a path for female assassins in an industry that has struggled to embrace such characters fully. The film, while not without its flaws, represents a step forward in showcasing strong female narratives in the action genre.