Most Wick acolytes probably expected the legendary hitman to be resurrected at some point, and it was confirmed that Reeves (as well as Ian McShane) would make appearances in the upcoming spin-off Ballerina starring Ana de Armas. CinemaCon got some first look footage at that film, as well as confirmation that Reeves would re-team with original John Wick director Chad Stahelski and producers Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee. Though there are no plot details or a release date yet available, Iwanyk and Lee appeared at CinemaCon to say, “It’s so important to get this story right and give John’s story the proper next step. It’s exciting to take the first step on that road.”
Meanwhile, it was also revealed on Tuesday that the previously announced Caine spin-off film will be directed and executive produced by Caine himself, Donnie Yen. Mattson Tomlin (The Batman Part II) has been brought on to write the script, following a previous draft of the screenplay written by Robert Askins (The Umbrella Academy). This project is currently being described as “stylistically modeled on the uniquely designed action films that Yen helped make famous,” per Variety. Yen said, “The John Wick films have set an immensely high standard for action filmmaking and I greatly appreciate Lionsgate giving me the opportunity to further elevate the franchise. I am both thrilled and deeply inspired to make this happen.”
Stahelski described the Caine-centric flick as a “modern day kung-fu classic that explores the John Wick world.” In his statement, he said, “One of my favorite characters in the John Wick world is Caine. To have the chance to dive into his world and discover all his adventures excites us all. And who better to helm it than Donnie Yen himself. His understanding of the culture, the world, and, of course, the action, make him the perfect director for this project.”
Finally, Lionsgate also announced an animated prequel film, which will also feature Reeves voicing John Wick. The movie will recount “the origins of Wick [as] he completes the Impossible Task — the killing of all of his rivals in one night — to free himself from his obligation to the High Table and earn the right to be with the love of his life, Helen,” per Variety. Shannon Tindle (Ultraman: Rising) is set to direct with Vanessa Taylor (Game Of Thrones, The Shape Of Water) penning the script. “I’ve always been fascinated with anime. It has always been a huge influence on me, especially with the John Wick series,” Stahelski said. “I feel John Wick is the perfect property for this medium—anime holds the potential to expand our world, our characters, and our action in ways unimaginable before.”
