John Wick has become one of the most beloved action franchises in recent memory
With its intricate world-building, thrilling action sequences, and memorable characters, it has captivated audiences and critics alike. Fans have been eagerly anticipating the release of John Wick 4 since it was announced, and the hype surrounding the film has only continued to grow. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what we know so far about John Wick 4 and what fans can expect from the highly anticipated sequel.
Background
John Wick 4 was officially announced in May 2019, just weeks after the release of John Wick. Chapter 3 – Parabellum. The announcement came as no surprise, given the massive success of the franchise. The first three films grossed over $584 million worldwide and received critical acclaim for their stylish action sequences and immersive world-building.
Production
Production on John Wick 4 began in June 2021, after being delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The film is being directed by Chad Stahelski, who also directed the previous three installments. The screenplay is being written by Shay Hatten and Michael Finch, with Derek Kolstad, the creator of the John Wick franchise, serving as an executive producer.
Cast
Keanu Reeves is, of course, returning as the titular character, John Wick. The rest of the cast includes a mix of returning favorites and new faces. The cast members Ian McShane, Lance Reddick, and Laurence Fishburne are all confirmed to return to their respective roles as Winston, Charon, and the Bowery King. Additionally, Donnie Yen, Hiroyuki Sanada, and Shamier Anderson have been announced as new cast members.
Story Review
John Wick, who is seeking revenge against the High Table, is hiding in New York City with the Bowery King. He goes to Morocco and kills the Elder, the only person above the High Table. As a result, the High Table summons New York Continental Hotel manager Winston Scott and concierge Charon to the Marquis Vincent de Gramont. De Gramont punishes Winston by stripping him of his duties, destroying the Continental, and executing Charon. He travels to Paris and enlists retired High Table assassin Caine to kill John, threatening to kill Caine’s daughter if he doesn’t comply.
When John is being pursued by the High Table’s assassins, he seeks refuge at the Osaka Continental, which is operated by his friend Shimazu Koji. De Gramont’s assassins and Caine arrive at the hotel to kill John, but Akira, Koji’s daughter and the hotel’s concierge, orders the hotel evacuated and fights off the assassins with her father, John, and the staff. Koji is killed by Caine, but John escapes. He returns to New York and meets with Winston at Charon’s gravesite. Winston suggests that John challenge de Gramont to a duel to free himself from his obligation to the High Table.
To do so, John must request a duel on behalf of a crime family, so he travels to the Ruska Roma’s headquarters in Berlin. John finds and kills a High Table senior named Killa in exchange for Katia branding John’s arm with a Ruska Roma crest. John then formally requests a duel with de Gramont through Winston, with the terms being the rebuilding of the New York Continental and Winston’s reinstatement as manager if John wins.
John and de Gramont meet in Paris, with Caine fighting in de Gramont’s place. The duel is set to take place the following sunrise at Sacré-Cœur, with the threat of Winston and the Harbinger’s execution if John fails to appear on time. De Gramont places a $40 million contract on John’s head, and John fights off assassins on his way to the duel, aided by Caine. John is gravely wounded but ultimately kills de Gramont in the final round. After the final duel, the Harbinger proclaims that John is released from his debt to the High Table. However, John ultimately succumbs to his injuries and passes away peacefully.
After John’s death, Winston is reinstated as the manager of the Continental. He and the Bowery King pay their respects at John’s funeral, where he is laid to rest next to his late wife Helen. Caine returns home to reunite with his daughter but is approached by Akira, seeking vengeance.
Expectations
Given the success of the previous three films, expectations are high for John Wick 4. Fans are eagerly anticipating more of the franchise’s trademark action sequences, stylish visuals, and intriguing world-building. Additionally, there is a sense of excitement around the new cast members and what they will bring to the table.
One thing that fans are particularly looking forward to is the potential showdown between John Wick and Donnie Yen’s character. Yen is a renowned martial artist and action star, and his addition to the cast has generated a lot of buzz.
Conclusion
Overall, with the return of familiar cast members and the exciting plot developments, John Wick 4 is poised to be yet another exhilarating addition to the popular film series. Fans of the franchise can look forward to more heart-pounding action and intense fight scenes as the story of John Wick continues to unfold. While we don’t know much about the plot or the new characters, fans are eagerly anticipating the film’s release and what it will bring to the table. With its talented cast, impressive production team, and devoted fan base, John Wick 4 is sure to be one of the most talked-about films of the year.
