In recent cinematic news, the anticipation surrounding the latest installment of the John Wick franchise, titled "From the World of John Wick: Ballerina," has introduced a new chapter featuring Ana de Armas as the skilled assassin Eve. This film marks a noteworthy milestone as it has garnered a commendable Rotten Tomatoes score of 77%. Echoing the franchise’s staple elements, "Ballerina" also includes a cameo from Keanu Reeves reprising his iconic role as John Wick, a move that has excited long-time fans of the series. However, this isn’t the first time the two stars have graced the screen together. A decade prior, they co-starred in Eli Roth’s "Knock Knock," an erotic thriller that invites a retrospective viewing.
"Knock Knock," released in 2015, emerges from a wave of erotic thrillers that once captured the public’s imagination, a genre wildly popular through the late 20th century. Despite its attempts to tap into this nostalgia, "Knock Knock" achieved mediocre ratings, reaching only a 37% Tomatometer score on Rotten Tomatoes, a stark contrast to the acclaim now pouring in for "Ballerina."
Directed by Eli Roth, "Knock Knock" serves as a remake of the 1977 film "Death Game," maintaining a similar premise but updating the original narrative for a contemporary audience. The story revolves around Evan Webber, played by Keanu Reeves, a devoted husband whose life spirals out of control when two women, who seek shelter from a rainstorm, turn out to be agents of chaos. The film explores themes of sexual coercion and betrayal that linger heavily over the narrative, ultimately framing Evan for acts he did not commit. While the film’s subject matter has been polarizing, it nevertheless captures a distinct moment in both actors’ careers.
Notably, this film marked Ana de Armas’ first English-speaking role, posing a significant milestone in her career after a successful stint in Spanish-language productions. Armas’ journey can be traced back to her early roles in series like El Internado, leading to her Hollywood breakthrough following the release of "Knock Knock." It is intriguing to note that she learned her lines phonetically to ease her transition into English-language acting, a feat that she accomplished smoothly, making her performance all the more commendable.
Despite its mixed reviews, "Knock Knock" offers unique opportunities for analysis, particularly when viewed through a modern lens of cultural and social sensibilities. Critics have often pointed out that audiences were perhaps expecting too much from Keanu Reeves following the monumental success of "John Wick" released merely a year earlier. The stark shift from a polished, action-packed thriller to a more unsettling narrative left many feeling jilted. Some reviews labeled "Knock Knock" as a “dull homage” to its exploitation flick roots, but others suggested it might better serve as a satirical commentary on societal themes.
The challenges the characters face in "Knock Knock" are strikingly darker than anything depicted in the John Wick franchise. Where "John Wick" presents itself as a thrilling exploration of the underworld of assassins, rife with violence and vengeance, "Knock Knock" delves into psychological horror, forcing viewers to confront uncomfortable themes surrounding infidelity and retribution. The film’s particularly unsettling moments succeed in tapping into primal fears related to the safety of one’s own home, a quality that distinguishes it from the flashy realm of action films.
This notion of discomfort is further emphasized by the involvement of the original creators and actors of "Death Game," who helped produce Roth’s remake. Their insights and dedication to preserving the film’s core themes provide a structural reference point that juxtaposes the influences of past cinematic works with contemporary storytelling methods.
While it cannot escape the shadow of its predecessors or the weight of critical expectation, "Knock Knock" continues to be an intriguing part of Keanu Reeves’ filmography. Indeed, the dichotomy between its underappreciated reception and the growing legacy of its leading stars prompts viewers to reconsider its place. Its unique combination of erotic thriller elements with a deeply unsettling narrative warrants attention, especially for fans eager to see how their performances may have evolved in "Ballerina."
Ultimately, the burgeoning careers of both Reeves and de Armas offer a refreshing lens through which to explore the layers in "Knock Knock." While the film may not have aligned with the commercial and critical success of other films in the genre, its significance in their careers and the sharp themes it grapples with might urge audiences to approach it anew. As fans immerse themselves in "Ballerina," it seems fitting to cast a glance back to "Knock Knock," examining how both projects connect through the iconic stars who drive them.
In conclusion, the complex dynamics of storytelling through varying genres stand out, whether it be the polished elegance of "Ballerina" or the murky depths of "Knock Knock." As we celebrate the growth and evolution of these talented actors, we’re reminded that every film, regardless of its reception, contributes to the larger narrative of their careers. With Reeves and de Armas continuing to make an impression in Hollywood, their earlier work together can serve as a fascinating study of progress, artistic exploration, and the powerful impact of film on society’s ever-evolving perspectives.
