The 2014 film John Wick seems to do a good job of counter-acting the usual ways in which sexism seeps into action films. The premise is one which feels familiar – a legendary, but retired hitman is drawn back into action when dangerous criminals kill his loved one. As the movie begins, and we see soft-focus flashbacks of the titular character (played by Keanu Reeves) living a happy and contented life with his beautiful young bride, we automatically make the assumption that she has been sacrificed by the screenwriter in order to provide the gun-toting hero with the necessary motivation. But, surprise! The murdered loved one is actually his dog.

Right from the start, then, we feel good about this movie. John Wick is bucking the trend, which must see it land on the right side of history, i...

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