Ernest, played by NBA basketball player Boban Marjanović, is a notable character in the 2019 film John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum. Created by the screenwriters Derek Kolstad, Shay Hatten, Marc Abrams, and Chris Collins, Ernest is a hitman who engages in a memorable and intense fight scene with the protagonist, John Wick. This character’s creation and inclusion in the film are significant, drawing inspiration from classic martial arts cinema and adding a unique layer to the John Wick universe.
Ernest’s role in the narrative is that of an assassin tasked with eliminating John Wick, who has been labeled "excommunicado" by the High Table for killing a crime lord on Continental grounds. This character’s defining traits include his imposing physical presence and his brief but engaging dialogue with John Wick, which sets him apart from other hitmen in the film. The fight scene between Ernest and John Wick is particularly noteworthy, as it pays homage to the Bruce Lee film Game of Death (1972), where Lee fights NBA basketball player Kareem Abdul-Jabbar [1][2].
Ernest’s storyline is relatively brief but impactful. He appears at the New York Public Library, where John Wick has gone to retrieve a marker medallion and a rosary. Ernest, aware of John Wick’s presence, confronts him, leading to a fierce and entertaining fight. Despite his size and strength, Ernest is ultimately defeated by John Wick, who manages to outmaneuver and overpower him.
This encounter is part of John Wick’s broader journey as he navigates the treacherous world of assassins and crime syndicates. Ernest’s character serves as one of the many obstacles John Wick must overcome to achieve his goal of reaching the Elder, the only person who can rescind his excommunicado status. The fight with Ernest also highlights John Wick’s resourcefulness and combat skills, as he is injured during the fight and must complete his own medical treatment before continuing his quest [1][2].
Ernest’s personality is largely defined by his role as a formidable hitman. He is confident and assertive, engaging in banter with John Wick before their fight. This brief interaction humanizes Ernest slightly, making him more than just a generic antagonist. However, his motivations are straightforward: he is there to kill John Wick and collect the bounty on his head.
Despite his physical strengths, Ernest’s flaws are exposed during the fight. His reliance on brute force is not enough to overcome John Wick’s tactical and combat skills. This dynamic makes Ernest a compelling character, as he represents a different type of opponent for John Wick, one who challenges him physically rather than strategically.
Ernest’s development is limited due to his brief appearance, but his character adds to the richness of the John Wick universe by showcasing the variety of assassins John Wick faces. His inclusion also underscores the theme of adaptability and skill versus brute force, a recurring motif in the film [1][2].
Ernest embodies several themes present in John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum. One of the primary themes is the idea of skill versus brute force. Ernest’s character represents the latter, while John Wick exemplifies the former. This contrast highlights the importance of strategy and skill in overcoming adversity, even when faced with physically imposing opponents.
Another theme is the relentless pursuit of targets in the world of assassins. Ernest’s role as one of many hitmen after John Wick illustrates the relentless nature of this world, where targets are pursued relentlessly until they are eliminated. This theme contributes to the overarching message of the film, which explores the consequences of being part of such a dangerous and unforgiving world [1][3].
Ernest’s cultural impact is largely tied to his memorable fight scene with John Wick. The scene has been widely discussed and praised for its homage to classic martial arts films and the unique dynamic between the two characters. Fans of the John Wick series appreciate the creativity and intensity of this fight, which stands out in a film filled with action sequences.
While Ernest is not a central character, his appearance has contributed to the broader cultural significance of the John Wick franchise. The franchise’s blend of high-octane action, stylish visuals, and intricate world-building has made it a favorite among action film enthusiasts. Ernest’s role, though brief, is part of this larger cultural phenomenon [1][2].
Critics and audiences have generally praised the fight scene between Ernest and John Wick. The scene is often highlighted as one of the standout moments in the film, with many appreciating the physicality and humor brought by Boban Marjanović’s performance.
There have been no significant controversies surrounding Ernest’s character, as his role is well-integrated into the narrative and serves to enhance the action and tension of the film. Overall, the reception of Ernest has been positive, with fans and critics alike appreciating the unique contribution he makes to the John Wick universe [1][2].
Ernest’s legacy within the John Wick franchise is that of a memorable and formidable opponent. His fight scene with John Wick has become iconic, symbolizing the blend of action, humor, and homage to classic cinema that defines the series.
While Ernest is not a recurring character, his impact on the franchise’s action sequences and world-building is significant. He represents one of the many creative and challenging opponents that John Wick faces, adding to the richness and diversity of the John Wick universe.
In broader terms, Ernest’s character contributes to the ongoing discussion about action film tropes and the evolution of fight scenes in modern cinema. His appearance in John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum has inspired other filmmakers to experiment with unique matchups and homages to classic action films [1][2].
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