The John Wick universe is known for its stylish action, intricate lore, and enigmatic characters. Now, the beloved universe is expanding with Ballerina, a spin-off that promises to add a new layer to this cinematic world. Set to release on June 6, 2025, Ballerina stars Ana de Armas as Eve Macarro, a ballerina-assassin trained by the Ruska Roma, who embarks on a quest for vengeance after her father’s death. Directed by Len Wiseman, the film is positioned between the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum and John Wick: Chapter 4, offering fans a deeper dive into the universe’s rich tapestry.
How Does Eve Macarro Tie Into John Wick’s World?
Eve Macarro’s journey is rooted in the fabric of the John Wick universe. Her training with the Ruska Roma, the same organization that molded John Wick into a formidable assassin, establishes a direct link between their stories. This shared background not only highlights the rigorous discipline instilled by the Ruska Roma but also underscores the parallels in their paths of vengeance and redemption. Speaking of the insight the upcoming film may provide into Wick’s life, writer Shay Hatten said:
“The main character is somebody who came up through the same ballet academy that we see in the third film with Angelica Huston, which, as you know, is a place that John also has a history with. In a cool way, by showing this new character coming out of that world, you might get some answers about what John’s own history was like in that place and some of his training.”
The film delves into the intricacies of the Ruska Roma’s training methods, shedding light on the rituals and philosophies that shape their assassins. By exploring Eve’s transformation, Ballerina offers a fresh perspective on the origins of the lethal skills that define characters in this universe. This exploration enriches the lore, providing fans with a deeper understanding of the forces that drive these assassins.
Moreover, Eve’s interactions with key figures like The Director (Anjelica Huston) and Winston Scott (Ian McShane) further cement her place within the established hierarchy. These connections not only validate her role in the broader narrative but also set the stage for potential alliances and conflicts that could ripple through future installments.
How Does John Wick Fit Into ‘Ballerina’?
Keanu Reeves reprises his iconic role as John Wick in Ballerina, bridging the gap between the main series and this spin-off. While his appearance is not the central focus, Reeves’ involvement provides continuity and depth to the storyline. Director Len Wiseman and Reeves reportedly collaborated to ensure that Wick’s presence simply works to enhance the narrative, without overshadowing Eve’s journey.
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In interviews, Reeves expressed enthusiasm about returning to the role. His scenes with de Armas are described as intense and pivotal, offering moments of mentorship and confrontation that reveal new facets of both characters. These interactions not only provide fans with the thrill of seeing Wick in action but also serve to highlight Eve’s growth and determination. Speaking of reprising his role in Ballerina and relationship with de Armas at a special screening of Wick Is Pain, a documentary offering an inside look at the creation of the first John Wick film, Reeves said:
“It was really cool to have a chance to put the suit on. I’ve worked with Ana a couple of times and she’s a wonderful artist, and she committed to the action. I just had like eight days on it, but it was fun to play the role again and I’m excited for people to see the film. It’s in the spirit of John Wick and has new characters and opens up some stuff, so hopefully people like it.”
‘Ballerina’ Expands the ‘John Wick’ Universe
Ballerina is more than just a spin-off; it is a strategic expansion of the John Wick universe. By introducing new characters and delving into unexplored territories, the film sets the stage for future narratives and potential crossovers. The inclusion of actors like Norman Reedus and Gabriel Byrne hints at the introduction of new factions and storylines that could be pivotal in upcoming installments.
Director Len Wiseman views Ballerina as a parallel story that intertwines directly with the main timeline. This approach allows for a richer, more interconnected universe where characters’ actions have far-reaching consequences. By expanding the narrative scope, the film invites audiences to explore different facets of the John Wick world, from the politics of the High Table to the personal vendettas that drive its inhabitants.
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Moreover, Ballerina‘s focus on a female protagonist offers a fresh perspective, challenging traditional narratives and broadening the franchise’s appeal. Eve’s story not only adds diversity to the character roster but also opens avenues for exploring themes of identity, agency, and resilience within this high-stakes environment.
As the John Wick universe continues to expand, Ballerina serves as a testament to the universe’s depth and versatility. The upcoming film stands poised to be a significant addition to the original franchise, offering a blend of the familiar and unfamiliar and a promise to deliver the same heated action that fans have come to associate with the Wick universe.
Ballerina is playing in theaters.
