Chad Stahelski, the director of the John Wick franchise, recently discussed his uncertainty about the future of John Wick 5 and where the series could go next. The fourth installment, John Wick: Chapter 4, appeared to conclude the action-packed film series as John Wick (played by Keanu Reeves) meets his demise after being released from his obligations to the High Table. Despite this, Lionsgate announced the development of John Wick 5 in May, hinting that the franchise will continue despite John’s apparent death.
In an interview with Empire, Stahelski expressed his indecision about the direction of John Wick 5, raising doubts about whether the film will actually be made. He admitted to being torn between letting John Wick: Chapter 4 serve as the series finale or proceeding with a fifth film.
Although John Wick: Chapter 4 concludes with John’s death, it sets up potential storylines within the John Wick universe. The post-credits scene of the film introduces Caine (Donnie Yen), who is sought after by Akira (Rina Sawayama) for vengeance against the blind assassin responsible for her father’s demise. With John now deceased, it is conceivable that John Wick 5 might not feature the eponymous assassin at all and instead shift focus to Caine’s narrative.
However, due to the immense popularity of Keanu Reeves’ portrayal of John Wick, it is unlikely that a sequel would be made without his involvement. If John Wick 5 does materialize, it may reveal that John faked his own death to elude the High Table’s pursuit. Nevertheless, the ending of John Wick: Chapter 4 provided a satisfying conclusion to John’s character arc, and bringing him back from the dead could potentially cheapen that resolution.
Regardless of the uncertainty surrounding John Wick 5, Lionsgate has plans to expand the John Wick universe through The Continental miniseries, set to premiere on Peacock in September, and the upcoming film Ballerina, slated for release on June 7, 2024. While Stahelski may not have any concrete ideas for John Wick 5 at the moment, its production is still likely due to the success of John Wick: Chapter 4. Only time will reveal how John Wick 5 will unfold and whether it will respect the conclusion of its predecessor.