The career of Keanu Reeves is remarkable in its longevity; despite some memorably sub-par performances in films like “Much Ado About Nothing” and “Bram Stoker’s Dracula,” the strength of his most iconic roles, from Neo in “The Matrix” to Johnny Utah in “Point Break” to Ted in “Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure,” has buoyed his career for over thirty years. However, particularly over the past few years (despite what the recently confirmed “Bill and Ted Face the Music” might have to say), these roles have been far surpassed by Reeves’ role as the world’s best hitman in the “John Wick” franchise, which returns with a third installment, “John Wick: Parabellum,” later this year.
Directed by Chad Stahelski (along with an uncredited David Leitch), the first “John Wick,” released in 2014, became an instant classic of the action genre with its unique blend of stylized action, real stunts, and great self-aware storytelling. Since then, a number of films have tried to emulate the distinct style of the films, but none have been able to replicate the success of the growing franchise, which includes the film trilogy as well as an upcoming TV show, “The Continental,” on Starz.
“Parabellum” sees John Wick running from his network of assassins after breaking their rules in “Chapter 2”: Still on the run following his assassination of Santino D’Antonio in The Continental, and with a $14 million global contract on him, John Wick is banned from every Continental service, which forces him to fight his way out of New York City with the help of a hitwoman who still trusts him.
Joining Reeves in his (potential) final chapter are his “Matrix” co-star Laurence Fishburne as The Bowery King, Halle Berry as Sofia, Lance Reddick as Charon, Ian McShane as Winston, Anjelica Huston as The Director, John Leguizamo as Aurelio, and Jason Mantzoukas as Tick Tock Man.
“John Wick: Parabellum” arrives in theaters on May 17. You can watch the trailer below.