Keanu Reeves is returning to the John Wick franchise.
Lionsgate broke the news during their earnings call earlier this week. The studio’s CEO John Feltheimer said, “We’re also busy preparing scripts for the next two installments of our John Wick action franchise, with John Wick 4 slated to hit theatres Memorial Day weekend 2022. We hope to shoot both John Wick 4 & 5 back to back when Keanu becomes available early next year.”
Lionsgate’s announcement should not come as a surprise; John Wick is a massive hit for the movie franchise. The global box office across three movies is a total of over $500M.
A new Starz ‘John Wick’ TV series, ‘The Continental’, is coming soon after the fourth movie. The show will be set in Los Angeles (not New York City, like the movies) and “maintain the urgency of the action along with the dry humor from the John Wick movies.”
Keanu Reeves is attached as a producer, and he’s expected to cameo at some point, while Chad Stahelski, who directed John Wick and John Wick: Chapter 2, will helm the pilot; The Wire and Sons of Anarchy writer Chris Collins were hired as showrunner. The cast has yet to be announced.
“This series is truly unlike anything else on TV,” said Starz president and CEO Chris Albrecht in a press release. “The Continental promises to include the thunderous fight sequences and intensely staged shootouts between professional assassins and their targets that fans have come to expect in the John Wick movie franchise as well as introducing some new, darkly compelling characters who inhabit this underground world.”
The sequel, ‘John Wick 4’, is scheduled for May 27th release date. Currently, Keanu Reeves is shooting ‘Matrix 4’ for Warner Bros. in Berlin, Germany.
About ‘John Wick’:
“John Wick,” the American neo-noir action film series, has not only captivated audiences worldwide but also redefined the landscape of action cinema. Created by Derek Kolstad and spearheaded by Keanu Reeves as the titular character, the franchise has expanded into a global phenomenon since its inception in 2014.
Unveiling John Wick: The Saga Begins
John Wick (2014) introduced audiences to a retired assassin thrust back into the criminal underworld after the loss of his beloved wife and a subsequent attack by Russian gangsters. The simple act of stealing his car and killing his puppy, a last gift from his wife, unleashes Wick’s repressed fury, leading to a vengeful rampage that the action genre had rarely seen. The franchise continued with “John Wick: Chapter 2” (2017), “Chapter 3 – Parabellum” (2019), and “Chapter 4” (2023), each escalating in intensity and expanding the universe around Wick.
Expansion and Evolution of the Franchise
Beyond the main series, “John Wick” has inspired various spin-offs including “The Continental: From the World of John Wick” and the upcoming film “John Wick Presents: Ballerina” (2025). Each project delves deeper into the intricate world built around this character, showcasing the franchise’s ability to evolve and remain fresh.
The Hallmark of John Wick: Action Redefined
The “John Wick” series is renowned for its impeccably choreographed action sequences. Director Chad Stahelski, a former stuntman, leverages his experience to craft visceral, tightly executed fight scenes that emphasize realism and the physical prowess of its star, Keanu Reeves. This dedication to authentic action has set new standards in the genre, influencing numerous films and filmmakers.
Cultural Impact and Reception
Globally, the “John Wick” films have grossed over $1 billion, a testament to their popularity and the robust fan base they have cultivated. Critics and audiences alike praise the series for its stylish execution, compelling storytelling, and the depth of its protagonist. The saga has not only been a box office success but also a critical darling, celebrated for revitalizing the action genre with its blend of gritty narrative and balletic violence.
Future and Legacy
With “John Wick: Chapter 5” in development and other projects expanding this universe, the franchise’s future looks promising. The ongoing success of these films underscores the lasting appeal of the character and his world, ensuring that John Wick’s influence on action cinema will endure.
“John Wick” has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on Hollywood. Its blend of emotional storytelling, innovative action, and a charismatic lead has redefined expectations for what an action film can be. As the franchise continues to expand, it remains a pivotal fixture in modern cinema, continuing to push the boundaries of the action genre.
Continue Reading:
Keanu Reeves Reveals Why He’s Returning to ‘Matrix 4’
‘The Matrix 4’ Open Casting Calls, Auditions & More (UPDATE)
