The movie John Wick tells of a former assassin who sets out on a string of killings to avenge the slaying of his dog (given to him by his deceased wife). The dog is significant because it is the last thing gifted to Wick before his wife’s death. Throughout the film, Wick kills his way through the criminal underground in order to track down the son of a Russian mob-boss responsible for the murder of his dog.

It is through his misfortune that the world of John Wick benefits. John Wick’s character represents the archetype of the lord of the underworld/ destruction. Lords of destruction/the underworld are often depicted as forces related to the restoration of the world. They act by way of the miseries of existence (death, misfortune, suffering…). Wick restores the righteousness or morality of the world by eliminating a network of evil: criminals, drug-lords, and violent mob-bosses. Guided by his quest for revenge, He is an enforcer of justice through punishment and death. His compassion for innocence, which in this case is represented by his dog, shows a respect for the good of the world.

In terms of masculine identity, he is characterized as a solitary force, much like any god or deity. His strength far exceeds his enemies yet he is humble. Wick does not kill for pleasure; he kills for necessity. He is calculating, skillful, yet, simple. No amount of materials goods or worldly gains can stand in the way of his mission- a wrath on evil. Wick’s all black attire alludes to his character as bringing a darkness with him: his pain and his enemies end.