Keanu Reeves is stepping back into the lethal world of professional assassins, though this time the journey takes a decidedly animated turn. Lionsgate has officially greenlit a prequel film that will finally dive into the infamous impossible task John Wick had to complete in order to earn his freedom from the High Table. Reeves is attached not only to voice the iconic character but also to serve as a producer on the project, ensuring continuity with the live-action entries that defined the franchise.
Directing duties for the feature fall to Shannon Tindle, known for his work on Ultraman: Rising and Kubo and the Two Strings. The script is penned by Ryan and Kaz Firpo, who previously co-wrote Marvel’s Eternals. The production brings together familiar architects of the franchise alongside new players. Thunder Road’s Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee are returning alongside 87Eleven Entertainment’s Chad Stahelski, while Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg's Point Grey Productions has joined the team.
While details regarding the specific animation studio remain under wraps, the project aligns with long-held creative ambitions for the franchise. Franchise director Chad Stahelski has previously noted deep ties between the aesthetic of the films and traditional Japanese animation, viewing the medium as a natural evolution for the property. By shifting to animation, the creative team aims to expand the mythology, character depths, and kinetic fight choreography in ways that live-action constraints previously limited.
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