How does it compare to the first ??

The first was excellent, and the second takes what made the first one good and really expands on that, and makes it even better, with more kills, twice the bad-a** action scenes, and more crazy villains going all out to get them a piece of some Wick for the bounty. And Keanu Reeves as Wick winds up kicking nearly three times as much a** and comes up with more inventive ways to protect himself and dispatch of his enemies. So I'd recommend both, definitely. I actually wouldn't mind seeing a third, since the ending of Wick 2 was clearly left open for one.

I've seen the first one a few times and the second one just the once. Maybe my opinion will change with future re watches of the second, but I feel the first is the stronger film. There were just a few bits in the second one that I thought were too stupid.

Just watched the second film. I think it sucks in comparison. It's good for the action but the story doesn't seem to matter. Wouldn't watch it again.

The impact the first one makes can't be compared or replicated... it was just so fresh and came out of nowhere. With that said, to me Chapter 2 is a great sequel that's arguably as good if not better as its predecessor.

The main difference here, i guess is 2 doesn't jump straight into the action - save for the opening. It takes its time setting up the plot and we get some more insight into Wick's past. But once that's finished, the action comes at you hard (heh). That's right, the action is (again, arguably) bigger and badder! If the first one was fun for you, then I can't see how you can be disappointed with the action here; it is grittier, slicker, intentionally humorous, and delightfully absurd at times. I mean just watching Wick take on these hundreds of assassins is one fun thrill ride. Oh, and the final battle? In my view it's far superior to the one in the original.

And for those who say it lacks a story, well, I couldn't disagree more. The first didn't have much of a story according to many, right? Well, while Chapter 2 is ultimately all about the action as well, this film does, in fact, bring some character development into the mix. As I previously mentioned, you mainly get it in the first act but even during Fishburne's appearance later on does the film decide to take a step back from the action and offer us a nice little backstory.

All in all, Chapter 2 is a fantastic action film and sequel. Enthusiastic critics aside, I've seen more fans side with the first John Wick. As for me, I'm not going to say one is better than the other (I won't lie, this one might potentially become my favorite with multiple viewings). But I will say this: like the first, this one is superbly-made... the direction, lightning and terrific choreography is essentially on a whole other level, especially for an action film. (honestly, I have no problem declaring this one to be technically more impressive!) And most importantly, the action is as badass as it gets.