From Dog Lover to Death Dealer: What Drives John Wick?

The ‘John Wick’ franchise, starring Keanu Reeves, has captivated audiences worldwide with its stylish action, intense fight sequences, and a protagonist whose motivations are as complex as the world he navigates. At the heart of this high-octane series is John Wick, a retired assassin seeking vengeance for the death of his beloved dog, a final gift from his deceased wife. While this might seem like a simple premise for a revenge thriller, the character of John Wick is driven by a deep emotional undercurrent that fuels his actions across all three films (and counting).

Wick’s transformation from a peaceful dog lover to a ruthless death dealer is both tragic and fascinating. Before the events of the first film, he was a highly skilled hitman known for his precision and ability to neutralise any threat. However, his decision to retire from the violent life and live peacefully with his wife, Helen, shows a side of Wick that is capable of love and normalcy. His attachment to his dog Daisy, who is the final gift from his wife, represents the last connection he has to a life of peace. When Daisy is killed by a group of Russian thugs, Wick’s response is not simply one of anger, but of grief—a loss that reawakens the vengeful assassin within him.

Image Courtesy: People

What drives John Wick is not just a thirst for vengeance, but the need to reclaim his humanity. His actions throughout the series reflect a struggle between his violent past and his longing for peace. In every battle, there is a sense of personal loss—a man trying to preserve the memory of the life he once had, even as he is pulled back into the shadows of his former world. His relentless pursuit of justice, even at the cost of his own well-being, shows the depth of his emotional scars.

The ‘John Wick’ series taps into the universal theme of revenge, but it also explores a deeper question: Can a man who’s lived by violence ever truly escape it? Each kill Wick makes is a reflection of his internal battle, yet his unyielding loyalty to his principles—especially his sense of honor and love for his late wife—keep him grounded.

Ultimately, what drives John Wick is a combination of love, loss, and the desire for redemption. He may be a death dealer, but he is also a man searching for meaning in a world that has robbed him of peace. His journey is one of self-destruction and redemption, and it’s this complexity that makes him a character worth rooting for, even as he wades through violence.

–Farheen Ali