John Wick 4 just got an extra dose of martial arts prowess thanks to its newest cast member. Donnie Yen, known for his roles in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and the IP Man series among an always-growing collection of other films, will join up with Keanu Reeves for the latest entry in Lionsgate's popular "person who shoots other people really cool-like" franchise.
Yen will play an old friend of Reeves' title character, who shares much of his same history as well as a number of the same enemies as a result. Little other information has been given on his character as of yet, but given the John Wick series' history with big actors in supporting roles (like the never terrible Halle Berry's performance in John Wick 3), it's sure to be substantial. This news comes shortly after Japanese-British pop star Rina Sawayama was confirmed in an unknown lead role for the same upcoming sequel.
John Wick 4, which is currently in production without the creator of the first 3 films, will supposedly see Reeves as the titular figure on the run from pretty much everybody. After breaking one of his organization's most sacred rules by killing a target on neutral ground, he was excommunicated from the collective of assassins he'd been with for years and now has precious few friends left. Luckily, it looks like Yen's character will provide a tiny bit of that much-needed solace.
While some question whether the John Wick series still has room to grow, it's undeniable that audiences still turn out to see these action-packed films. Helmed by stuntman-turned-director Chad Stahelski, the movies stand out for their well-executed fight choreography, giving viewers plenty of the satisfying violence they hope to see from a good summer popcorn flick. Bringing in someone like Yen almost feels like the next natural step for a franchise that takes its stunts so seriously and professionally.
For many, there are few things as cathartic as a satisfying action movie, and John Wick is among the most prime examples. From the fight choreography to the ever-growing cast of unexpected stars, audiences always have something exciting to look forward to with the latest installment.
John Wick 4 still has quite a ways to go before its intended release date, even after seeing several delays due to a number of setbacks. But hopefully, it, as well as Yen's perpetually upcoming adaptation of the Sleeping Dogs video game, will finally make some progress soon. Otherwise, impatient fans might start to take contracts out on it.
Source: Deadline