John Wick 5 Gets First Positive Update as Keanu Reeves and Director Find Story

Lionsgate chairman Adam Fogelson confirms that director Chad Stahelski and Keanu Reeves have developed a 'really exciting' core idea for John Wick 5, marking the first positive update on the sequel in over a year. According to reports citing interviews with both filmmakers, they've found a story approach that works around Chapter 4's climactic ending, though the studio isn't putting a timeline on production yet.

What's the story approach for John Wick 5?

According to Stahelski, John Wick 5 will take a completely different narrative approach from the previous films. 'The saga of John Wick was pretty wrapped up,' he told Empire magazine. 'So the only way to do a 5 is to have a new story that involves John Wick. It's not a continuation with the High Table. John dealt with his grief.'

The director promised the new approach will be surprising: 'It will be really different, and everybody [will] see the trailer and go, 'Holy f**k... I gotta see that.'' This suggests the film won't simply resurrect Wick from his apparent death in Chapter 4, but instead find a creative way to bring the character back into action.

How will they address Chapter 4's ending?

John Wick appeared to die at the end of Chapter 4 after defeating his enemies, complete with a gravestone scene featuring Winston and the Bowery King saying their farewells. However, audiences only saw Wick collapse from his injuries rather than an explicit death scene.

Stahelski acknowledged the challenge this presents: 'I'm not going to lie to you, it's a bit of a conundrum.' Working with writer Mike Finch, who also wrote Chapter 4, the director says they've developed 'a pretty good story that I think is cool' that addresses this narrative hurdle without simply ignoring the previous film's conclusion.

What's next for the John Wick franchise?

Before John Wick 5 hits cinemas, fans can expect two confirmed spinoff projects. A Donnie Yen-led film focusing on his character Caine and an animated prequel exploring Wick's 'Impossible Task' are both in development. There are also whispers of a samurai western spinoff set in the John Wick universe.

The franchise's gaming presence is also expanding, with Lionsgate confirming an AAA game and Keanu Reeves returning for another gaming project. This multi-platform approach suggests Lionsgate is confident in the franchise's continued appeal beyond cinema.

Can Keanu Reeves handle another John Wick?

At 61 years old, Reeves has been candid about the physical demands of the John Wick franchise. In December 2024, he told CBS News: 'You can never say never. My knees right now are saying 'I can't do another John Wick.' So my heart does but I don't know if my knees can do it.'

Despite these concerns, Reeves remains committed to the character that revitalised his action career. The John Wick films have been notable for the actor performing much of his own 'Gun fu' choreography, a dedication that's helped define the franchise's authentic feel. Whether the new story approach will reduce these physical demands remains to be seen.

When and where to watch in UAE

No official release date has been announced for John Wick 5, with Lionsgate's Adam Fogelson stating there are 'a lot of steps' before production begins. UAE cinema-goers can expect the film to release simultaneously with global markets when it eventually arrives, following the pattern of previous John Wick films.

The franchise has performed well in UAE cinemas, with Chapter 4 earning over $440 million worldwide and continuing the series' trend of each film outperforming its predecessor at the box office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will there be a John Wick 5?

Yes, Lionsgate has confirmed that director Chad Stahelski and actor Keanu Reeves have developed a core idea for John Wick 5. The studio's Motion Picture Group chairman Adam Fogelson described their concept as 'really exciting', though no official timeline has been announced.

How will John Wick return after Chapter 4?

Director Chad Stahelski stated they have a story that works around the climactic ending of Chapter 4. The new film will be 'really different' and won't be a direct continuation of the High Table conflict, suggesting a fresh narrative approach rather than simply reversing Wick's apparent death.

What other John Wick projects are in development?

Two John Wick spinoffs are expected before the fifth main film: a Donnie Yen Caine movie and an anime prequel exploring Wick's 'Impossible Task'. There are also reports of a potential samurai western spinoff and confirmed gaming projects featuring Keanu Reeves.

When will John Wick 5 be released?

No release date has been announced for John Wick 5. Lionsgate's Adam Fogelson stated there are 'a lot of steps' before production begins, and the studio isn't putting a timeline on the project despite having found a core story concept.

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