As the Keanu Reeves-starring John Wick franchise continues to thrill fans, the latest installment takes an unexpected turn, exploring the titular character’s backstory in a cinematic adaptation of his retirement.
In recent years, John Wick franchise director Chad Stahelski revealed that an anime series set within the franchise’s universe was in development, initially intended as a television show. Although it seems that the anime has undergone significant changes, a recent interview with Stahelski in The Hollywood Reporter suggests that this is not entirely true. Will this outing serve as a prequel, focusing on everyone’s beloved serial killer, as he embarks on the “impossible job” that ultimately enabled his retirement and happy ending? While opinions on adapting John Wick into an anime may vary, a well-executed film could still prove an entertaining outing at the cinema.
When announcing the anime, Stahelski explained that he’s a fan of Japanese anime and cited it as the reason for the project. Aspiring to craft captivating stories, elevating anime’s potential beyond our own, and enriching our reality through compelling narratives, we’ll find solace in the creative process. As we’ll still have all the fun, Stahelski is keen to get his hands on as much anime content as possible, given he’s also overseeing action sequences in the upcoming Shinichiro Watanabe-directed series Lazarus – the mastermind behind Cowboy Bebop, I’m expecting some intense battle scenes from that one.
Director Chad Stahelski hasn’t ruled out the possibility of a John Wick 5, hinting at a potential sequel without committing to any concrete plans: “Is there a chance to do John Wick 5?” There may indeed be reasons, whether driven by financial gain or creative fulfillment, that motivate individuals to engage in a particular activity. As rumors swirl about the potential next installment in the John Wick franchise, I’ve found myself inundated with multiple, albeit fleeting, iterations of what could be John Wick 5 – leaving me wondering which one will ultimately prevail? It’s been tried in various ways to uncover the truth, but I’m starting to feel like I’m on a grueling mental journey.
Despite efforts to safeguard the conclusion of John Wick: Chapter 4, he acknowledged that this plot development “would not be a part of that narrative in the forthcoming film.” That’s not necessarily what you would think it is. It seems we’ve reached our zenith with John Wick: Chapter Four.
John Wick’s future is busy, with a sequel TV series underway and the Ballerina spin-off slated for release next year, regardless.
