John Wick 4 was a resounding success for Lionsgate Films. With a $420 million gross at the global box office, it’s the highest-earning film in the franchise. The film was also a critical hit and it debuted to a 91% Rotten Tomatoes rating. While it seemed like Lionsgate would draw the curtains on the franchise after the last film, it appears this isn’t the case.
During Lionsgate’s recent earnings call, Joe Drake, Chairman of Motion Picture Group, revealed the studio is developing a fifth installment of the guns-blazing series.
Drake stated, “We’re now moving across that franchise, not just in the AAA video game space, but looking at what the regular cadence of spin-offs, television really growing that universe so that there is a steady cadence of a franchise that there’s clear appetite by the audience.”
In John Wick 4, the titular character, played by Keanu Reeves, seemingly died after he succumbed to the injuries inflicted on him during his vendetta against the High Table. Given this development, we are inclined to assume that isn’t the case. After all, what is a John Wick movie without the character’s stoic demeanor and unshakeable determination to vanquish his enemies?
Drake provided more information on the studio’s plans for the franchise. Unsurprisingly, he did not address Wick’s death or otherwise.
He stated, “What is official is that, as you know, Ballerina is the first spinoff that comes out next year. We’re in development on three others, including John Wick 5 and including television series. The Continental will be airing soon. And so, we’re building out the world and when that five movie comes, will be organic — will be organically grown out of how we’re starting to tell those stories. But you can rely on a regular cadence of John Wick.”
By the way, this is not the first we will hear of a fifth John Wick installment. In March, Drake hinted at the possibility of a fifth film but only if they find there is a credible way for it.
Drake’s stance echoed that of Chad Stahelski, the franchise’s director, who had earlier revealed he would only return to the franchise if he devises a means of doing each new film with individuality.
In light of Drake’s recent comments, we presume the franchise’s production team has found the right formula to justify another installment.
Given that the franchise has grossed over a billion dollars at the box office, we are not surprised the studio wants to make another installment. If they have an idea that will maintain the franchise’s appeal to audiences, then we are in full support of their decision. Otherwise, we will recommend they quit while they still have the goodwill of the franchise’s fans.
While we may not see another John Wick film for some time, Lionsgate’s expansion of the franchise is in full gear with two spin-offs already on the way.
The first spin-off is a prequel series titled The Continental, which is set to debut on Peacock later this year. The second spinoff is a feature film, titled Ballerina, which will star Ana de Armas as the protagonist. The film is slated for release in June 2024.
