In a recent update, Keanu Reeves officially confirmed the character’s death almost two years after the film’s debut, which should eliminate the possibility ofJohn Wick 5. In its 4th installment, the famed assassin supposedly met his demise, sparking theories that he orchestrated his own death. I’m doubtful about the loss too, regardless of whetherthe genuine John Wick could not appear inJohn Wick 5. Despite the first movie having a relatively modest budget, theJohn Wickfranchise has an impressive box-office streak, which has surpassed $1 billion worldwide — and its popularity shows no signs of waning.
The franchise has consistently increased its commercial success with eachJohn Wickmovie, andChapter 4delivers a fitting end to Reeves' character’s journey. That being said, the upcoming release of the franchise’s spinoff,Ballerina, has not helped any speculation about the actor’s return. Despite this, the confirmation of when this standalone film is set within theJohn Wicktimelineofficially debunks any optimistic theories about the character. As it mostly risks undermining the satisfying conclusion ofJohn Wick 4,a 5th movie would face a significant challenge in justifying its existence,and it’s best that his story ends here.
Keanu Reeves Has Played Down John Wick’s Return From The Dead
Keanu Reeves Is Doubtful John Wick Has A Future Beyond John Wick 4
In an interview withExtra TV,Reeves was asked about the possibility of his character returning for future installments. While some audiences findReeves' response to John Wick’s potential returndisappointing, the actor provides a very direct response. Explaining that his character will be present inBallerina, Reeves reveals there are no plans for another continuation in theJohn Wickfranchise. The actor, synonymous with the franchise, has declared the character definitively dead, and has effectively closed the book onJohn Wick’s story. While aJohn Wick 5can’t be completely dismissed, these remarks make it considerably less likely.
Reeves toldExtra TV, “You know, the character’s dead. He died in ‘John Wick: Chapter 4.’ I know, in Hollywood you can… I know, I know, it’s the Hollywood story. Right now, there isn’t.” Admittedly, these comments come months after the actor’s discussion withCBS Newstowards the end of last year, in which Reeves admitted “my heart [wants another John Wick movie]. But my knees are saying right now, ‘You can’t do another John Wick.'“It appears Reeves is open to future projects, but prioritizes respecting the artistic integrity of his character’s death, preserving its impact and his legacy.
It Would Prove Challenging To See Keanu Reeves Return
John Wick 4conclusively provides a superb ending for the infamous character. While he persists on his quest to take outthe High Table, Wick is later offered the opportunity to duel with the villain, The Marquis de Gramont (Bill Skarsgård) in exchange for his freedom. Although the character has been incredibly resilient throughout the franchise,there has to be limits to Wick’s mortality. At his core, Wick is just a man, and he is not superhuman. Some injuries and losses are simply beyond recovery, and this is certainly the case in the last moments ofJohn Wick 4.
Forget John Wick 5, This Is The Keanu Reeves Franchise That Needs Another Movie
There’s been a lot of speculation and excitement about John Wick 5, but there’s a different Keanu Reeves action franchise that needs a new sequel.
His death inJohn Wick 4is an excellent ending for the character because it provides a sense of closure, and gives the story some finality and peace. Although theJohn Wick: Chapter 4endingleaves the door open for his return,Wick’s death was treated with dignity and reflects his character’s essence. If he were to come back from the dead, the impact of the previous moviewould be made redundant. Not to mention, Reeves’ return would force the new chapter into performing a fakeout sequence — which is difficult to do afterthe events ofJohn Wick 4.
Why John Wick 5 With Keanu Reeves Probably Will Happen
Hollywood Loves Cashing In On A Franchise And John Wick Is No Exception
John Wickhas become one of Hollywood’s most popular action franchises. Considering how much attention and traction it has gained over recent years, it seems probable that a 5th film will take place regardless of the circumstances. Director, Chad Stahelski, has proven this by including an interesting moment during the credits ofJohn Wick 4.Wick’s dog is seen to react to someone off-screen during the film’s final scene in the graveyard, which indicates that a new movie remains a strong possibility. Following the character’s poignant death, the post-credits sparked conversation after its premiere, which ironically kept the franchise alive.
2014
$20-30 million
$86 million
2017
$40+ million
$174.3 million
2019
$75 million
$327.7 million
2023
$100 million
$440.1 million
To say nothing of this being Hollywood, andJohn Wickbeing an incredibly successful franchise. Interestingly, everyJohn Wickmovie has impressively made four times its budget, proving that the franchise has an incredibly successful formula that Hollywood would be remiss not to capitalize on. This, alongsideJohn Wick’s established audience, makes it an incredibly enticing venture. Stahelski’s comments suggest that he may come up with a compelling story for a new sequel — andeven if Reeves were not to reprise his role inJohn Wick 5, the movie would still likely find great success with another actor as lead.
How Keanu Reeves' John Wick Could Return
John Wick 5 Ideally Needs To Be A Prequel For Reeves' Return
It is clear that Keanu Reeves' participation inJohn Wick 5hinges on a script that is logical, as well as honors his character’s ending. Reeves must be on board with the director’s vision. A new installment could include the destruction of the High Table or seeing Wick perish for good — but both of these feel disingenuous.It may be more fitting for the studio to keep Wick’s character deadand opt to move to an earlier point in the narrative with a prequel. This would eliminate the need for a fakeout, and deepen our understanding of the character’s past.
Ultimately, there are several ways that Reeves could remain in consideration forJohn Wick 5, but the franchise must ensure any future involvement respects his character and avoids altering the finality of his story.
Awarding the character a prequel is a suitable way to provide audiences with more on-screen time with Reeves, without it feeling underhand.A prequel detailing Wick’s earlier work would strengthen his reputationand make his abilities more plausible. Not to mention, it would be the ideal opportunity to feature far more stars who could appear as previous characters in flashbacks to past missions. Ultimately, there are several ways that Reeves could remain involved inJohn Wick 5, but the franchise must ensure any future involvement respects his character and avoids altering the finality of his story — such asBallerinais.
