Lionsgate
In the world of entertainment, where larger-than-life blockbusters rule the roost, the “John Wick” franchise stands out as being exceptionally fantastical. The franchise, with its depiction of New York City as a hub of professional assassins and the existence of magical bulletproof suits that can halt any projectile, is remarkably cartoonish. It’s almost as if “John Wick” is a live-action anime, especially with the ending of “John Wick: Chapter 4” drawing inspiration from a classic anime. Now, the franchise is set to become literally an anime.
As reported towards the end of last year, “John Wick” is set to expand its universe with a new TV show and an anime project. Initially, it was unclear whether the anime would be a film or a TV show, but The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed that an anime feature film is in the works. Interestingly, the anime feature will resolve a decade-old query fans have had: It’s slated to reveal “at least some” of John Wick’s infamous “impossible task,” given to him by the Tarasov mob boss to earn his freedom to retire and live peacefully with his wife Helen.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, “John Wick” co-creator Chad Stahelski expressed his enthusiasm for exploring the franchise through different mediums and hinted at the team’s ability to “be a little bit more crazy and nutty in the anime.”
Stahelski is no stranger to the anime world. He has choreographed action for the anime “Ninja Kamui” and designed action sequences for Shinichirō Watanabe’s new anime “Lazarus.” The idea of witnessing John Wick’s “impossible task” in animation, coupled with the franchise’s signature mayhem executed in anime, is a thrilling prospect — provided it’s executed well.
Is a John Wick Prequel Necessary?
Lionsgate
The “John Wick” franchise has a unique place in the realm of franchises. The first film almost went straight to video, but instead, it was released theatrically and became an unexpected hit. The first film’s success was due in part to its ability to introduce unique concepts and expand organically with each installment, setting a blueprint for building a cinematic universe that Hollywood could learn from.
However, when it came to expanding beyond the main “John Wick” films, the result was “The Continental,” a show that was a tremendous failure, as evidenced by /Film’s scathing review. Given this failure, is it necessary for the universe to expand beyond the main films? Is there a need to see John Wick’s impossible task, and can anything truly live up to that legend?
Only time will tell, but as Stahelski told The Hollywood Reporter, the franchise is not slowing down. In addition to the possibility of Keanu Reeves returning for “John Wick 5,” Stahelski mentioned that Robert Levine is developing an “Under the High Table” TV show and confirmed that the spin-off focusing on Donnie Yen’s Caine from “Chapter 4” is currently being written. Additionally, next summer will see the release of “Ballerina,” the first live-action spin-off film in the continuity of the main films. Regardless of the format or medium, the “John Wick” universe shows no signs of stopping.
FAQs
What is the “John Wick” anime about?
The “John Wick” anime is set to reveal “at least some” of John Wick’s infamous “impossible task,” given to him by the Tarasov mob boss to earn his freedom to retire and live peacefully with his wife Helen.
Who is developing the “John Wick” anime?
“John Wick” co-creator Chad Stahelski is involved in the development of the “John Wick” anime. He has expressed his enthusiasm for exploring the franchise through different mediums and hinted at the team’s ability to be “a little bit more crazy and nutty in the anime.”
What other “John Wick” projects are in the works?
In addition to the anime, there are several other “John Wick” projects underway. These include a potential “John Wick 5,” an “Under the High Table” TV show, a spin-off focusing on Donnie Yen’s Caine from “Chapter 4,” and “Ballerina,” the first live-action spin-off film in the continuity of the main films.
Is a John Wick prequel necessary?
The necessity of a John Wick prequel is subjective. While some fans may be eager to see John Wick’s impossible task and learn more about his backstory, others may feel that the main films are sufficient and that the mystery surrounding John Wick’s past adds to the intrigue of the character.
Credit: www.slashfilm.com
