The Targeted Journey of John Wick: A Guide to the Hitman's Prodigious Saga
Every hero has their own journey, but few can match the saga of John Wick, the powerful assassin whose life story has captivated audiences worldwide. This article delves into the roots of his rise to power, his fallibility, and the intricate events that led to his targeted status. From his early years as an orphan to his notoriety as the hitman for hire, we will explore why John Wick became the sworn enemy of the Continental, the 14 million bounty on his head, and the subsequent spin-off, Ballerina, that perfectly captures his essence.
Origins of John Wick: An Orphan Adopted by the Tarasov Russian Mafia
John Wick, played by Keanu Reeves, was born in Belarus, an orphan without a known lineage. He was taken in by the Tarasov Russian Mafia, a ruthless organization that trained him to become a force to be reckoned with in the world of assassins. Viggo Tarasov, the leader of the Tarasovs, admired Wick for his unwavering ruthlessness and tactical acumen. However, the adherence to his group#39;s loyalty had its limits. By the time the first John Wick film began, Wick had been out of the hitman business for five years. This period of retirement was short-lived, as the circumstances of the movie's plot reintroduced Wick to the life of killing for pay.
Chase for Survival: The 14 Million Bounty
Wick's journey transforms when he is assigned a mission that he knows he should refuse. He is to kill a victim he has previously spared to pay back a debt from his previous life. The Continental Hotel, a sanctuary for assassins and their prey, becomes a battleground for his redemption or downfall. Winston Scott, the manager of the Continental Hotel, offers John a grace period before he is excommunicated, essentially cutting him off from all services and privileges.
The betrayal and the subsequent 14 million bounty on his head compel John Wick to go on the run. The manhunt is relentless, as he must navigate the murder of old associates and enemies vying for the spoils of his downfall. His journey takes him through a network of hitmen and the ones he has wronged, echoing the iconic quote from the subsequent film, where a character warns him that they have hired every hitman on the planet. This exhaustive endeavor tests his skills and resilience to the limits, making each step a bid for survival.
From John Wick to Ballerina: A New Chapter
As the series prospered, it wasn't long before the idea of a spin-off was conceived. The targeted title for the new film, "Ballerina," marked the beginning of a new adventure for Wick’s kindred spirit. This spin-off was introduced in July 2017 by Lionsgate, a film production company known for its action-oriented titles. The story revolves around a young ballerina who is trained to be an assassin and seeks retribution for the murder of her family.
The production team, led by Erica Lee and Basil Iwanyk, capitalized on the success of the original film. Unity Phelan, who played the ballerina persona in John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum, was the inspiration for this new project. This female protagonist, much like Wick, strives to find her place in the world of high stakes and deadly perfection. The concept was further elaborated in a proof-of-concept pitch, which was presented to the audience via YouTube.
Len Wiseman, a renowned filmmaker known for his expertise in action sequences and thrilling narratives, joined the production in October 2019. Keanu Reeves and Chad Stahelski, the producers of the original films, would continue to oversee the project, ensuring that the essence of John Wick remained intact while introducing new elements that would captivate audiences even further.
Chloe Grace Moretz, a talented actress, and Ana de Armas were considered as potential leads, with Ana ultimately being chosen for the role. The pre-production phase was extensive, with Ana personally selecting Emerald Fennell to contribute to the script as a co-writer, ensuring the film’s narrative would resonate and add layers to Wick’s legacy.
Conclusion
John Wick's story is one of transformation, driven by a deep sense of duty and morality. From his early days as an orphan under the Tarasov Russian Mafia to his ultimate success as a rogue hitman, Wick is a figure of enduring fascination. The targeted condition that made him a hunted man has only fueled his legend, paving the way for further adventures and stories. The new film, Ballerina, embodies the same spirit of resilience and determination that defined John Wick’s journey, showcasing why he remains one of the most compelling characters in modern cinema.
For fans of action and thrill, the saga of John Wick offers a rich tapestry of storytelling that challenges, entertains, and inspires. Whether as the protagonist or an additional character, Wick continues to leave an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape, ensuring that his saga will continue to captivate audiences for years to come.