Expansion of the John Wick Universe with an Animated Prequel
The John Wick franchise is set to broaden its horizons with an exciting new prequel that explores John Wick’s “Impossible Task.”This announcement was made during the recent CinemaCon event, where the cinematic universe of this unexpected hit from 2014 continues to evolve. The original film introduced audiences to Keanu Reeves in the role of an assassin drawn back into the world of crime to avenge the death of his puppy, and it quickly became a cultural phenomenon.
As the franchise expanded with three sequels, fans learned more about Wick’s past, including the infamous Impossible Task he once completed to escape the criminal underworld and seek a tranquil life with his late wife, Helen, who succumbed to cancer prior to the events of the first movie.
Details of the Upcoming Prequel
During the Lionsgate presentation at CinemaCon, Adam Fogelson, chair of the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, announced plans for an animated prequel focusing on John’s Impossible Task. This innovative film will track Wick’s journey prior to the events of the first movie, illustrating the dramatic night he dispatched all of his rivals to liberate himself from the High Table, ultimately earning the chance to be with Helen.
The project will be helmed by director Shannon Tindle, with the script penned by Oscar nominee Vanessa Taylor, while Keanu Reeves is expected to lend his voice to the character of Wick. Fans can anticipate the same stylized action that has characterized the franchise, with content aimed at a mature audience.
Produced by franchise director Chad Stahelski alongside Alex Young and Jason Spitz of 87 Eleven Entertainment, Reeves will also take on a production role. Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee will produce for Thunder Road after their involvement in prior films. In a statement, Fogelson expressed great enthusiasm for the upcoming project:
“In both animation and the world of John Wick, the possibilities are endless. And there is no John Wick story fans are clamoring for more than the Impossible Task. Shannon’s take on that story is an incredible one, and we are beyond excited to see what John Wick can do in animation.”
Stahelski further commented on the project, revealing how his admiration for anime has influenced the live-action films:
“I’ve always been fascinated with anime. It has always been a huge influence on me, especially with the John Wick series. To have the opportunity to develop a John Wick anime seems to be the perfect progression for the John Wick world. 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.”
Iwanyk and Lee also shared their excitement for the collaboration, praising the vision brought forth by Tindle and Taylor:
“Shannon has a breathtaking vision for a film we’ve all long wanted to make. Alongside Vanessa’s story, we’re hugely excited to bring it to audiences.”
Implications for the John Wick Franchise
Background on Tindle and Taylor’s Work
Chad Stahelski’s directorial expertise has been pivotal in the success of the John Wick saga. Tindle, with a rich background in animation, previously directed Ultraman: Rising for Netflix and wrote the miniseries Lost Ollie. Taylor, an Oscar-nominated writer for The Shape of Water, has also worked on Divergent and contributed to three episodes of HBO’s Game of Thrones.
This untitled animated prequel marks a significant milestone as John Wick ventures into animation, suggesting the franchise’s ambitious plans following the lukewarm response to the Continental spinoff series. While the release date for the animated movie remains unconfirmed, fans can anticipate the Ballerina spinoff movie debuting this summer, along with a developing Caine spinoff and plans for John Wick 5.
Notably, John Wick’s Impossible Task, introduced in John Wick: Chapter 2, involves Santino D’Antonio (played by Riccardo Scamarcio), who assisted Wick during this crucial period. It remains unclear whether this character will feature in the upcoming prequel.
Our Perspective on the Animated John Wick Prequel
Audience Reception Considerations
A significant question regarding this animated prequel is whether the existing fanbase will embrace this new format. A recent comparison can be drawn to the animated prequel to The Lord of the Rings, War of the Rohirrim, which faced a disappointing box office performance amidst mixed reviews. However, the distinctiveness of John Wick from The Lord of the Rings suggests differing audience expectations.
With Stahelski’s involvement and Reeves returning to voice Wick, there is hope for a positive reception. The talents of Tindle and Taylor provide further reassurance. While this prequel may not match the acclaim of John Wick: Chapter 4, it promises to explore a pivotal chapter in Wick’s life and further develop the franchise’s intricate world. Clearly, the John Wick franchise continues to thrive and delight audiences.
Source: Lionsgate