Critics and general audiences alike often view these films as over-the-top spectacles lacking meaningful storytelling. The action-packed focus of these films obviously detracts from narrative content; however, there seems to be a false perception that spectacle means the complete absence of worthwhile content. After all, we still learn about characters and how they develop during action sequences. For example, in “The Matrix’s” iconic scene where Neo dodges bullets in slow motion, we see Neo’s transformation from someone held to the mercy of the system to someone who has the will to defy it. 

Keanu Reeves has always had a limited range, but he’s solid when tapped for the right role, and he’s particularly good with action. “John Wick” plays to the actor’s strengths, giving him a part that requires both impressive athleticism and old-fashioned movie star charisma. The film focuses on its title character (Reeves), a former assassin who retired to a more peaceful existence after finding the love of his life.

“Anchor Man 2” ratchets up the silliness, moving the characters several years forward to the advent of 24-hour cable news channels. As the movie begins, former San Diego news anchor Ron Burgundy (Ferrell) is co-hosting a New York program with his now-wife Veronica Corningstone (Christina Applegate). Their seemingly sound relationship breaks down when Veronica is offered a slot on the coveted evening news and Ron is simultaneously fired.