Keanu Reeves and Chad Stahelski Open Up About the ‘John Wick’ Franchise in New Documentary
A new documentary, “Wick Is Pain,” has been released, offering a candid look at the making of the ‘John Wick’ franchise. The documentary features interviews with star Keanu Reeves and director Chad Stahelski, who take viewers on a journey through the mythology of the films, the physical toll on Reeves, and the challenges faced during production. According to USA Today, the documentary is now available to buy on various on-demand platforms.
Stahelski, who directed the ‘John Wick’ franchise, has a typical day that includes “dogs, gym, John Wick.” He says that the franchise’s tight-knit community and familial atmosphere make it a unique experience. However, the documentary also reveals the difficult times faced by the crew, including Stahelski’s separation from his then-wife, stunt coordinator Heidi Moneymaker, during the making of the first film. As USA Today reports, Stahelski and co-director David Leitch also had creative differences during production.
The documentary showcases the franchise’s attention to detail, particularly in its action scenes. Reeves and Stahelski discuss the making of a crucial scene in the first film, where John Wick mourns the death of his puppy. USA Today notes that the scene was a turning point in the film, showcasing Wick’s grief and vulnerability. Reeves recalls that filming the scene was a challenging experience, but Stahelski notes that it was a pivotal moment in the film.
The documentary also highlights the unsung heroes of the franchise, including Eva Longoria. According to USA Today, Longoria played a crucial role in saving the film from financial difficulties. Stahelski and Reeves express their gratitude to Longoria, who provided the necessary funding to complete the film.
Reeves and Stahelski also discuss the innovations that have made the ‘John Wick’ franchise successful. The use of “plug guns” in close combat scenes and trained attack dogs are just a few examples of the franchise’s commitment to practical effects. As USA Today reports, Reeves is a strong advocate for the recognition of stunt work in the film industry, particularly with the introduction of the Academy Award for best stunt design in 2028.
The documentary also follows Reeves through the physically demanding action scenes, showcasing the toll it takes on his body. His stunt double, Jackson Spidell, notes that Reeves’ pain on screen is often real. Reeves himself reveals that after finishing “John Wick: Chapter 4,” he didn’t go to the gym for over a year. As USA Today notes, Reeves is still considering his future in the franchise, with a fifth film in development.
Stahelski is also exploring other projects within the ‘John Wick’ universe, including an animated prequel and a TV series. The upcoming spinoff “Ballerina,” starring Ana de Armas, is set to be released in theaters on June 6. According to USA Today, Stahelski believes that these projects will allow them to experiment with new ideas and expand the franchise.
The ‘John Wick’ franchise has become known for its high-octane action sequences and intricate world-building. With “Wick Is Pain,” fans get a unique look at the making of the films and the people behind them. As USA Today reports, the documentary offers a candid and insightful look at the franchise, making it a must-watch for fans of the series.
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