(Image Source: Lionsgate)
Lionsgate made several major announcements regarding its upcoming film slate at CinemaCon today. The studio not only confirmed development for "Now You See Me 4" and released the trailer for the second "Hunger Games" prequel film, but also provided updates on three highly anticipated projects within the "John Wick" universe.
First up is the highly anticipated "John Wick 5." Lionsgate had already announced its development the year "Chapter 4" was released, and director Chad Stahelski, who helmed the first four installments, had even previously stated he had preliminary ideas stretching to a ninth film. Today, Lionsgate officially confirmed Stahelski's return to direct and Keanu Reeves' return to star. However, fans shouldn't expect "Chapter 5" to begin production anytime soon, as Stahelski is also attached to direct the "Highlander" reboot and the live-action "Ghost of Tsushima" adaptation. It remains uncertain which project will move forward first.
(Image Source: Lionsgate)
Additionally, Donnie Yen's blind assassin Caine, a fan-favorite character introduced in "John Wick: Chapter 4," was previously confirmed for a spinoff film. Yen revealed in a January interview that Lionsgate wanted him to both direct and star in the project. This plan has now been finalized, with Yen officially set to take on both leading and directorial duties. Mattson Tomlin, showrunner for the Netflix animated series "Terminator Zero," will pen the script. The film is expected to heavily incorporate Hong Kong-style martial arts action.
(Image Source: Lionsgate)
The final project is a previously announced Japanese animated prequel film. Stahelski had previously mentioned that the film would detail John Wick's final mission before his retirement. Today, officials provided more details, revealing that John, in an effort to escape his obligations to the High Table and live peacefully with his wife Helen, eliminated all his enemies in a single night. The film will be helmed by Shannon Tindle, co-director of "Ultraman: Rising," and Keanu Reeves is also confirmed to return to voice the character.