John Wick 5 is poised to become a reality, even though the conclusion of John Wick: Chapter 4 suggested a definitive end to the storyline. However, the anticipated return of Keanu Reeves as the titular character is possible, given that a fifth film is currently in development. Although both Reeves and director Chad Stahelski have not officially confirmed their participation, Lionsgate’s EVP, Jenefer Brown, has indicated that the studio is actively working on a new installment.
This announcement reinforces the notion that the saga is far from over. Yet, Wick’s ambiguous fate in Chapter 4, combined with the uncertainty surrounding the involvement of Reeves and Stahelski, has left fans in a state of curiosity. Notably, Reeves is set to appear in the upcoming spinoff, Ballerina, alongside Ana de Armas. If this project succeeds, it seems plausible that the main franchise would continue. Still, questions linger on how the iconic Baba Yaga might make a comeback from an apparent death; one potential avenue lies with a certain important side character.
The Director May Have Assisted with John Wick’s Offscreen Death Subterfuge in Chapter 4
John Has Previously Turned to The Director in Times of Need
In the John Wick universe, John has fewer allies, yet one of his most dependable contacts remains The Director. Given her capabilities, she could play a crucial role in facilitating John’s deception regarding his death. While Winston is the logical choice due to his close ties with John, recruiting someone less involved with the High Table like The Director would provide a more discrete method for John’s supposed demise, avoiding any immediate suspicion associated with Winston.
This choice aligns better with John’s character, as it allows him to effectively convince everyone, including his closest allies, that he has indeed passed away. A well-executed façade could serve John well, enabling him to retire under the radar. Moreover, with Anjelica Huston reprising her role as The Director in Ballerina, there may be hints about John’s fate, potentially setting the stage for her involvement in this subterfuge.
Winston and The Bowery King May Be Unaware of John Wick’s Survival
Their Interaction in John Wick: Chapter 4 Left John’s Fate Ambiguous
The interaction between Winston and The Bowery King near the conclusion of John Wick: Chapter 4 indicates a shared uncertainty regarding John’s fate. The two characters engage in a conversation at John’s grave, with the Bowery King questioning Winston about whether John might be in heaven or hell. Winston’s vague response, “Who knows,”suggests they both harbor suspicions that John may not have departed for good.
Although Ian McShane’s Winston Scott has been a constant presence throughout the franchise and is set to appear in Ballerina, the lack of definitive answers indicates they might not be involved in any plot to stage John’s death. Their unsure dialogue opens up possibilities for future developments, maintaining their importance as supporting figures in John Wick 5, provided Reeves returns for another round.
The Logic Behind John Wick Faking His Death at the Conclusion of Chapter 4
John Wick: Chapter 4 Focused on His Desire to Exit the Criminal World for Good
While some fans may argue that John faking his death undermines the narrative, one could argue that this twist aligns perfectly with the story’s themes. The crux of John Wick: Chapter 4 revolves around John’s struggle to extricate himself from the clutches of the criminal underworld. His desperate moves to defeat the system reflect his desire for peace, and the apparent sacrifice of his life could suggest that death seems to be the only path to genuine freedom.
However, if he survived and successfully convinced people that he was dead, it would provide John with the fresh start he has yearned for. The narrative of Ballerina might even introduce a successor who embodies the honor John seeks, suggesting that by the time of Chapter 4’s events, he could have an ally ready to continue his legacy. This perspective strengthens the case for John’s decision to feign his death as a pathway to a new life, free from the lurking shadows of his past.
Potential Triggers for John Wick’s Return to Action in John Wick 5
Considering John’s fervent desire to retire, any motivation for his return must be extraordinarily compelling. A potential storyline could involve a new villain eager to exploit the knowledge of John’s continued existence as a means to threaten his allies. Introducing this character could present thrilling plot developments that do not necessitate a direct connection to the High Table.
One possibility is The Director becoming a target, particularly if she played a part in staging John’s death. Similarly, Winston and the Bowery King, with their historical ties to John, could find themselves in peril. Characters like Caine, Eve, or Akira might also be plausible focuses, representing the new generation of the franchise and giving John an opportunity to utilize his skills and protect those left in his stead.
A plot where John Wick battles the notorious leaders and assassins of the High Table to purge them could make for a thrilling continuation of the saga, heightening the action fans expect while presenting John with a moral choice. Although this path could prevent him from achieving a definitive retirement, it would align with his character’s arc, prompting him to attempt to establish a moral underworld for future assassins. Such motivations would create substantial reasons for John’s return, blending perfectly with the ethos established in prior films.