John Wick (2014)

John Wick (2014), an American action thriller film directed by Chad Stahelski and written by Derek Kolstad, tells the story of a grieving man in New York City. After the death of his wife Helen, John receives a beagle puppy from her to help him cope. However, a group of Russian gangsters led by Iosef Tarasov approach John at a gas station, attempting to intimidate him into selling them his prized 1969 Boss 429 Mustang. When their efforts fail, they break into John’s home, attacking him and ultimately killing the puppy while stealing the car. In an attempt to remove any identifying details from the stolen vehicle, Iosef takes it to a chop shop run by Aurelio. However, Aurelio recognizes the Mustang and refuses to work on it. He then informs John that Iosef is actually the son of Viggo Tarasov, the ruler of New York City’s Russian mafia.

After learning of his son’s actions, Viggo scolds Iosef for angering John. He explains that John was once his employee and earned a fearsome reputation as the Baba Yaga, known for his determination and unwavering resolve. When John fell in love with a civilian named Helen, Viggo gave him an impossible task to earn his freedom, which he managed to accomplish. Now, John has found a hidden stash from his previous career, containing weapons and gold coins. Despite Viggo’s attempt to reconcile, John refuses and takes out the hit squad sent to his home. This causes Viggo to put a $2 million bounty on John’s head and enlist his former mentor Marcus to kill him. Seeking refuge at the neutral ground of the luxurious Continental hotel, owned by his old friend Winston, John is informed that Iosef can be found at the nightclub Red Circle.