John Wick 2 (5 Stars)

I've watched this wonderful film a few times, but today is the first time that I watched the deleted scenes on the Blu-ray. There's one scene that really should have been included. Omitting it removes an important part of the bizarre John Wick universe.

As people who have seen the film already know, John travels to Rome to assassinate Gianna D'Antonio, a member of the unnamed organisation's High Table. When he checks into Rome's Continental Hotel, the owner asks John if he's in Rome on business. When John replies Yes, he's asked if the target is the Pope, and relief is expressed that this isn't the case. The reason for this isn't stated, but I assumed that it means the Pope is respected as a religious leader.

The deleted scene puts this in a different context. John Wick visits the Vatican and announces to the Pope's secretary that he intends to kill Gianna D'Antonio. The secretary reports to the Pope, who comes out to give his approval with the words "Fortune favours the bold". John Wick kisses the Pope's ring in reverence.

This short scene reveals a few things. More accurately, it would have revealed them if it had been included. John Wick is known in the Vatican. The Pope is a senior figure in the organisation to which John Wick belongs. John's respect for the Pope seems to be based on his seniority, rather than any religious affiliation. The Pope accepts the ruthless killing practised by members of the organisation. It's curious that the Pope should speak the words "Fortune favours the bold". These very words are tattooed on John Wick's back. Until now I've assumed that this tattoo is proof that he was previously a member of the US marine corps, but the use of these words by the Pope points to it being a motto used by the organisation.

Why was this scene removed from the film? My guess is that it would have been too controversial. The film studio didn't want to tell people that the Pope is part of an organisation that kills people in cold blood.

Success Rate:  + 2.3

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