Chad Stahelski, the visionary creator behind the critically acclaimed John Wick series, is embarking on one of Hollywood's most challenging endeavors: transforming a beloved film series featuring a deceased hero into a thriving franchise. The four John Wick films, starring Keanu Reeves as the stoic assassin, have been a massive success for Lionsgate, raking in nearly half a billion dollars with the latest installment, John Wick: Chapter 4. However, the film’s conclusion saw the demise of its weary protagonist, leaving both Lionsgate and Stahelski with a perplexing dilemma—while the franchise still holds immense potential, the character of John Wick appears to be six feet under.
In an attempt to capitalize on the John Wick brand, Lionsgate launched a spinoff television limited series titled The Continental, which unfortunately did not resonate with audiences, especially since Stahelski and Reeves were not involved in the project. As the franchise evolves, the release of Ballerina, a new spinoff movie featuring Ana de Armas as an assassin in the John Wick universe, marks a significant step forward. Reeves makes a brief appearance in this film, further connecting it to the beloved series.
Additionally, fans can look forward to a documentary titled Wick is Pain that delves into the creation of the films, a prequel anime movie, and a spinoff centered around Donnie Yen’s character, the blind assassin Caine. Speculation about a potential John Wick: Chapter 5 continues to swirl, with Stahelski teasing his thoughts on this prospect.
Stahelski, a former stuntman who transitioned to directing, initially gained recognition as a second unit director on various action films, including Captain America: Civil War. He and his former partner, David Leitch, were entrusted with directing the original John Wick in 2014, showcasing their unique kinetic “gun fu” action style. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Stahelski discussed his newfound role of having “franchise oversight” and the complexities that come with it.
“I don’t know the answer,” Stahelski admitted when questioned about the extent of his creative control. “We seem to be doing something right, yet with every movie, there is a bit of an argument.” He emphasized the importance of collaboration and understanding between studios and creatives, noting that his unconventional approach often raises eyebrows.
Stahelski’s filmmaking process is anything but linear. He challenges traditional norms in action filmmaking, arguing that many movies conform to established tropes, leading to a lack of originality. “You have to ask ‘Why?’” he said. “So many movies look the same because their process is the same.” His commitment to breaking the mold has led to the distinctive aesthetic of the John Wick franchise, which has captivated audiences worldwide.
The John Wick saga has crossed the remarkable milestone of $1 billion in global box office revenue following the release of Chapter 4. Stahelski attributes this success to a collective love for action films and a genuine desire to create something meaningful. “We tried to be an audience member and not chase the dollar,” he explained, highlighting the inspiration drawn from classic action films and martial arts.
Stahelski was not directly involved in The Continental series, which has led him to reflect on the creative lessons learned from that venture. “Keanu and I were sidelined,” he noted, indicating that the studio’s vision didn’t align with the core elements that made the films successful. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the essence of the John Wick universe while exploring new narratives.
The premiere of Ballerina received positive feedback, suggesting that the franchise's spirit remains intact. Stahelski expressed enthusiasm for the film, praising Ana de Armas’s performance and the unique energy she brings to the role. “Every cast member we’ve got has been a fan of the previous films,” he said, emphasizing the positive atmosphere on set.
As discussions around a potential John Wick: Chapter 5 continue, Stahelski acknowledges the challenges posed by the character's death. “It’s a bit of a conundrum,” he stated. However, he remains optimistic about developing a compelling narrative that respects the character’s legacy while exploring new directions.
Stahelski’s commitment to organic storytelling ensures that the John Wick universe can continue to thrive without losing its core essence. He believes that as long as the stories feel authentic and connected to the audience, there is potential for further expansion.
Chad Stahelski's journey from stuntman to filmmaker has redefined action cinema, establishing John Wick as a cultural phenomenon. As he navigates the complexities of expanding this franchise, his dedication to creativity and innovation will undoubtedly shape its future. Whether through spinoffs, prequels, or potential sequels, the John Wick universe is poised for exciting developments as Stahelski continues to push the boundaries of storytelling in action films.
