Abram (Character) - John Wick

Abram Tarasov in the John Wick Franchise

Introduction

Abram Tarasov is a significant character in the John Wick franchise, specifically introduced in the movie John Wick: Chapter 2. He is the brother of Viggo Tarasov, a key antagonist from the first film, and the new head of the Tarasov mob. Created by screenwriter Derek Kolstad, Abram’s character adds depth to the complex web of the criminal underworld that John Wick navigates.

Abram’s backstory is closely tied to the events of the first film, where his nephew Iosef and brother Viggo were killed by John Wick. This sets the stage for Abram’s role in Chapter 2, where he is dealing with the aftermath of these losses and trying to maintain control over the Tarasov mob.

Role in the Story

Abram’s storyline in John Wick: Chapter 2 begins with John Wick infiltrating a smuggling compound run by Abram to recover his stolen Boss 429 Mustang. Despite being the target of John’s wrath, Abram is portrayed as a calculating and intelligent character. When confronted by John, Abram quickly realizes the futility of resisting and decides to surrender the car, sparing his own life in the process^[1].

This encounter highlights Abram’s pragmatic nature and his ability to make swift decisions to protect himself and his interests. Unlike his brother Viggo, who was more impulsive and aggressive, Abram shows a more measured approach to dealing with threats.

Abram’s relationship with John Wick is one of mutual respect and caution. While John is determined to retrieve his car, Abram is aware of John’s reputation and the danger he poses. This dynamic sets a tone for the rest of the film, where characters must navigate complex webs of loyalty, honor, and survival.

Character Analysis

Abram Tarasov is a compelling character due to his unique blend of intelligence and pragmatism. Unlike many villains in the franchise, Abram is not driven by a desire for revenge or power but rather by a need to survive and maintain order within his organization.

His motivations are rooted in self-preservation and the protection of his mob’s interests. This makes him a more nuanced character compared to other antagonists, who often act out of emotion or a lust for power. Abram’s strengths lie in his ability to think clearly under pressure and make rational decisions, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

However, Abram’s flaws include his inability to fully assert his authority in the wake of his brother’s death. He is still grappling with the consequences of Viggo’s actions and the respect he commands within the mob is not as absolute as his brother’s was. This vulnerability makes him a more relatable character, as he is not invincible but rather a human figure navigating the complexities of the underworld.

Themes and Symbolism

Abram embodies several themes that are central to the John Wick franchise. One of the primary themes is the concept of honor and loyalty within the criminal underworld. Abram’s decision to surrender his car and spare his life reflects the strict codes of conduct that govern this world. This act of surrender is a symbol of respect for John Wick’s prowess and an acknowledgment of the rules that govern their world^[1].

Another theme is the inevitability of violence and the cyclical nature of revenge. Abram’s involvement in the story highlights the ongoing cycle of violence that John Wick is trapped in. Despite his efforts to avoid conflict, John is continually pulled back into the underworld, and characters like Abram serve as reminders of the past actions that have led to this point.

Cultural Impact

Abram Tarasov, although not a central character in the broader narrative of the John Wick franchise, has a significant cultural impact due to his portrayal as a rational and calculating villain. His character adds depth to the franchise’s exploration of the criminal underworld, showcasing that not all villains are driven by mindless aggression.

In terms of fan reception, Abram is often praised for his intelligence and the way he navigates the complex world of the Tarasov mob. His character serves as a contrast to more brutal and impulsive villains, making the franchise more nuanced and engaging.

Critical Reception

Critics have generally praised Abram’s character for his intelligence and the way he is integrated into the story. He is seen as one of the more intelligent villains in the series, and his decision to surrender to John Wick is viewed as a smart move that highlights his pragmatism^[2].

However, some critics have noted that Abram’s role is somewhat limited compared to other characters in the franchise. Despite this, his presence is significant because it sets the tone for the rest of the film and provides insight into the workings of the Tarasov mob.

Legacy

Abram Tarasov’s legacy in the John Wick franchise is that of a nuanced and intelligent villain who adds depth to the narrative. His character serves as a reminder that not all antagonists are driven by simple motivations but can be complex and multifaceted.

In contemporary discussions, Abram’s character is often cited as an example of how villains can be made more compelling through their intelligence and pragmatism. His portrayal has influenced other works in the action genre, where villains are increasingly being written with more depth and complexity.

Abram’s enduring appeal lies in his ability to represent a different type of antagonist, one who is not necessarily evil but rather a product of the world he inhabits. This makes him a relatable and intriguing character, contributing to the rich tapestry of the John Wick universe.