Overview
- John Wick returns in a fifth installment, with his survival sparking curiosity among fans.
- The upcoming animated prequel promises to dive into Wick’s iconic ‘impossible task,’ crafted by notable filmmakers.
- Fans are eager for the prequel to honor Wick’s legendary status without over-exaggerating his assassin abilities.
The confirmation of John Wick 5 brings relief to many fans wondering about the fate of the titular character following the cliffhanger ending of John Wick 4. While he is indeed alive, a pressing question now looms: how has he managed to escape death? The soon-to-be-released animated prequel may provide essential insights into this mystery.
Producing the animated prequel seems logical for several reasons. First, with Keanu Reeves now in his 60s, depicting a younger Wick would either necessitate de-aging technology—a challenging feat—or an animated format. Furthermore, the nature of this prequel centers on a tale so enveloped in myth that animation allows for creative liberties that might prove difficult in the constraints of live-action filmmaking. However, there’s a valid concern that animation might elevate Wick to an almost superhuman status rather than portraying him as the highly skilled assassin fans know.
Behind the Scenes of John Wick’s Animated Prequel
YouTube link
According to reports from The Hollywood Reporter, both Keanu Reeves and Chad Stahelski, the primary director of the John Wick movies, will take on production roles for the prequel. Shannon Tindle, the writer behind the acclaimed film Kubo and the Two Strings, which was nominated for an Academy Award, will direct the project. His previous work has been well-received, positioning the prequel nicely for success. For instance, his Netflix film, Ultraman: Rising, received an impressive 86% on Rotten Tomatoes, while audience ratings surged to 92%.
Tindle’s portfolio includes notable achievements, but his collaboration with screenwriter ????, whose past films primarily focus on drama and romance, raises some questions about their fit for the action-heavy world of John Wick. While her experience with the action genre is limited to Divergent, which did not perform exceptionally well, the partnership has potential, as she adeptly crafts compelling characters. Together, they will delve into Wick’s legendary ‘impossible task.’
The Importance of Wick’s ‘Impossible Task’
John Wick’s resilience often paints him as a superhero-like figure, especially after surviving what seemed to be a definitive demise in John Wick 4. Despite this perception, he remains a mere human with extraordinary resolve. Previously, he drew comparisons to Marvel’s Daredevil for his unyielding might, but with hints of potential healing abilities, the narrative thickens.
It’s worth noting that while we witnessed Wick collapsing in John Wick 4, no actual body or burial was shown, leaving the door open for speculation about his survival. The animated prequel might reveal the circumstances that facilitated Wick’s remarkable brush with death, possibly elaborating on how he could defy mortality once again as he embarks on new adventures in John Wick 5. This premise could render the prequel essential viewing for devoted fans.
Will the John Wick Prequel Deliver?
YouTube link
The ‘impossible task’ that John Wick undertook—rumored to involve eliminating three men with a pencil—promises an intriguing narrative. However, the question remains: can the depiction truly honor this legendary task? Often, legendary tales struggle to encapsulate their grandeur on screen. With animation, there’s a risk of exaggerating Wick’s prowess.
Just as other franchises have experienced varied success with animated adaptations, such as Geralt in The Witcher: Sirens of the Deep, which failed to impress critics, John Wick’s prequel has potential. However, the quality hinges on the synergistic collaboration of Reeves and Stahelski, who have consistently delivered exceptional content. If executed well, the prequel could be a thrilling exploration of Wick’s most iconic mission.