Next year, action fans can look forward to another adventure from the "John Wick" universe. The previous "John Wick" movies starring Keanu Reeves were a huge success and are extremely popular. Now the first spin-off, "Ballerina", is just around the corner. Here in our new Original, we reveal all the latest details about the plot, the cast and the production.

First Plot Details

The previous "John Wick" movies were mainly about the retired hitman of the same name, who has to face off against his former employer after his wife's death. "Ballerina" is another chapter from this world, but not a continuation of the main story. The first spin-off centers on a young female assassin on a quest for revenge against her family's killers. The connection of a ballet school with the underworld was already shown in "John Wick 3" and is surely the origin of the idea for the spin-off. In fact, the plot of "Ballerina" is set between "John Wick 3" and "John Wick 4", but so far the producers have not revealed any more details.

The Cast of "John Wick: Ballerina"

Ana de Armas, known from "Blade Runner 2049", "Knives Out" or the Netflix hit "The Gray Man", will take on the role of the eponymous ballerina. De Armas already demonstrated in the last James Bond adventure "No Time to Die" that she is capable of action and is in no way inferior to her male colleagues. Some familiar faces from the "John Wick" movie series will also be back: Ian McShane as hotel owner Winston and Anjelica Huston as the Director have been confirmed to reprise their roles. Also joining the cast is "The Walking Dead" star Norman Reedus, who could be one of Ana de Armas' potential antagonists. Lance Reddick will also make a final appearance as concierge Charon. The actor passed away unexpectedly this spring, shortly after wrapping up filming on "Ballerina".

Is Keanu Reeves Involved in "John Wick: Ballerina"?

Keanu Reeves will return in his role of the popular hitman and will be part of the cast of "Ballerina". This is definitely a good reason to celebrate! According to Collider, the Hollywood star was spotted filming the movie in Prague last November. However, it is not known to what extent John Wick's role will be in Ballerina's new solo adventure.

Production

For film distributor Lionsgate, the "John Wick" franchise is a total success. The last installment alone, "John Wick: Chapter 4", generated over $400 million worldwide on a budget of $90 million. Accordingly, it comes as little surprise that Lionsgate is also in charge of the planned spin-off. Len Wiseman is taking over the directing duties. His previous works include the "Underworld" films with Kate Beckinsale, the reboot of "Total Recall" and the fourth installment of the popular "Die Hard" film series. Shooting took place in Prague, among other places, and was a challenging experience:

Ana de Armas, for example, talked about the physically demanding filming on the "Tonight Show" with Jimmy Fallon. Quote:

"[...] I'm in pain. My body, my back, everything hurts. I'm complaining. I'm sore. I'm bruised. 'Bond' was 15 minutes. This is a whole movie. Another level."

She also reported on a rather difficult stunt scene with Keanu Reeves and was very impressed with her fellow actor. He would deliver one crazy performance after another - so she could hardly complain. We can therefore probably look forward to spectacular action again - including John Wick himself!

Release Date of "John Wick: Ballerina"

The "John Wick" spin-off "Ballerina" will be released on June 7, 2024. Until then, many fans are eagerly awaiting the first impressions of the killer ballerina's story in sound and vision. We can't wait to bring you the first "Ballerina" teaser trailer!