The film received highly positive reviews, particularly for its inventive action choreography—coined "dog-fu," "book-fu," and "horse-fu" by critics—and its stylized visual aesthetic.

Having killed a High Table member on neutral Continental Hotel grounds, John has lost all protective services and must fight his way out of New York City.

His journey takes him from the New York Public Library to Casablanca, where he seeks aid from former allies like Sofia (Halle Berry) and The Director (Anjelica Huston).