I remember when this came out and my extreme positive reaction to it. Even today, it's hard for me not to get excited about watching a John Wick film, and the first of the series will always be one of my favorites. While definitely not as refined as the rest of the series, this film boasts by far the best writing and story of them all along with its superb action. I do think the action improves greatly in the next few films, although that is not to say this one is lacking in any regard. I still can't decide which scene is my favorite even after watching a dozen times. Another thing I love about these films is the super-macho-guy tone that is imposed onto Wick without making him into a sweaty, bulky, wise-cracking dude that we see in most other American action films. Instead, his slicked-back hair and dark suits play into his silent and dark personality. I think Keanu is perfect for this role, especially since it requires little emotional acting. This is almost a perfect popcorn movie that doesn't quite have the same level of blandness in the story like the rest of the films tend to have, which makes it one of the best.