The John Wick franchise is set to expand into the world of anime with an upcoming prequel film that delves into the backstory of the titular character.
Directed by Chad Stahelski, who has been instrumental in shaping the franchise, this project aims to explore John Wick’s origins and the events that led him to leave the assassin life behind.
Release Date
While specific release dates have not been confirmed, the John Wick anime is currently in development, with expectations for its premiere in late 2025 or beyond.
The anime is part of a broader expansion of the franchise, which includes a live-action spinoff titled Ballerina, scheduled for release in June 2025.
Cast
Details regarding the cast of the anime are still under wraps. However, there is speculation about whether Keanu Reeves will reprise his role as John Wick, either through voice acting or flashbacks.
The anime will also feature a new narrative that may introduce various characters from Wick’s past, though specific names have yet to be announced.
Plot
The anime aims to provide a deeper understanding of John Wick’s character by exploring his past as a hitman. It will particularly focus on the “impossible task” that allowed him to retire from his life as an assassin, a significant plot point referenced throughout the original films. This task is shrouded in mystery and has been a topic of intrigue among fans since the first movie.
Chad Stahelski has expressed excitement about the creative freedom that anime offers, stating that it allows for a more dynamic and explicit storytelling approach compared to traditional live-action films. He noted that this medium enables them to “be a little bit crazier and nuttier,” which aligns with the franchise’s established tone while allowing for new explorations within the Wick universe.
Additional Projects
In addition to the anime film, several other projects are in development within the John Wick universe:
- Ballerina: A spinoff film starring Ana de Armas.
- Under the High Table: A TV series that will continue exploring the criminal underworld established in previous films.
- A spinoff focused on Donnie Yen’s character, Caine.
The John Wick prequel anime represents an exciting new chapter for fans of the franchise. With its focus on character depth and narrative exploration, it promises to enrich the lore surrounding one of modern cinema’s most iconic action heroes.
