Ana de Armas stars as Eve Macarro in *Ballerina*, a spinoff set between *John Wick: Chapter 3* and *Chapter 4*. The first trailer showcases her transformation into an assassin seeking revenge for her family’s murder, featuring intense action sequences blending ballet and combat skills. Directed by Len Wiseman, the film includes returning characters played by Ian McShane and Anjelica Huston, alongside newcomers like Norman Reedus. *Ballerina* is scheduled for release on June 6, 2025.
The John Wick franchise has captivated audiences with its unique blend of stylized action, intricate world-building, and unforgettable characters. As the saga of the titular character concluded in Chapter 4, the legacy continues with the upcoming film, Ballerina, featuring Ana de Armas as a deadly assassin. This new installment not only expands the universe but also dives deeper into the lives of those trained in the art of killing. Let’s explore what we can expect from this thrilling addition to the John Wick series.
Introducing Eve Mararo
Ballerina is set between the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum and John Wick: Chapter 4. It serves as an origin story for Eve Mararo, portrayed by Ana de Armas. The trailer showcases her intense training and transformation into a formidable assassin, paralleling the journey of John Wick. Just as Wick was driven by personal tragedy, Eve’s backstory reveals a similar path of loss, having lost her family before being taken in as a ballerina assassin.
The Training Grounds
In the John Wick universe, ballet and assassination intertwine. The film explores Eve’s rigorous training under the Rusara organization, inspired by the Russian Romani crime group. This organization adopts orphaned children and molds them into ruthless assassins, a path that John Wick himself traversed. The training methods depicted in Ballerina not only highlight physical prowess but also the psychological manipulation involved in creating deadly killers.
The Return of Familiar Faces
One of the exciting aspects of Ballerina is the return of characters from the John Wick franchise. Anjelica Huston reprises her role as the Director, who plays a crucial role in Eve’s development. The Director’s mentorship mirrors that of John Wick’s past, creating a connection between the two assassins. Additionally, Winston Scott, played by Ian McShane, finds Eve and offers her refuge, showcasing a fatherly bond despite her dark path.
A New Kind of Action
The action in Ballerina promises to be as intense and thrilling as its predecessors. While many assassins in the John Wick universe rely on firearms, the trailer hints at creative and brutal combat techniques. The final scene features Eve battling an opponent wielding a flamethrower, reminiscent of the explosive tactics seen in previous films. This blend of high-octane action and innovative weaponry sets the stage for an exhilarating cinematic experience.
Behind the Camera
While Ballerina is not directed by Chad Stahelski, who helmed the previous John Wick films, his influence is still present. Len Wiseman takes over the directorial reins, with Stahelski’s 87 North Productions involved in the project. The return of composers Tyler Bates and Joel Richard ensures that the film will maintain the distinct sound that fans have come to love, combining moody keyboards with intense guitar riffs.
Connecting the Dots
The film not only serves as a standalone story but also enriches the overarching narrative of the John Wick universe. With Eve’s character drawing parallels to John Wick, fans can expect thematic connections that highlight the struggles and triumphs of both characters. As Eve seeks to carve her own path, her journey may intertwine with Wick’s legacy, potentially leading to collaborations or confrontations.
What are the main action sequences in Ballerina:
- Ice Skate Combat: Eve uses an ice skate as a weapon, showcasing her unique skill set.
- Flamethrower Use: She wields a flamethrower in intense confrontations, amplifying the film’s high-stakes action.
- Neon-lit Shootouts: The trailer hints at shootouts in vibrant, neon-soaked environments, reminiscent of the John Wick aesthetic.
- Training Sequences: Eve’s training at the Ruska Roma academy involves intricate choreography, emphasizing her transition from dancer to assassin.
Ballerina movie shooting location:
Filming for Ballerina, a spinoff of the John Wick series, took place primarily in Prague during the winter of 2022-23. Key locations included the National Theatre, Masarykovo nádraží train station, and various areas in Karlín and Bubeneč. Additional scenes were shot at Dolní Beřkovice Castle, Kačina Castle, and the ruins of the Belvedere Summer Castle outside Kutná Hora. Reshoots are planned for early 2024 in Budapest.
Total budget of Ballerina movies:
The total budget for the upcoming Ballerina movie, a spinoff from the John Wick series, is reported to be $30 million.
Conclusion: Anticipation for Ballerina
Ballerina is poised to be a significant addition to the John Wick franchise. With a compelling protagonist in Ana de Armas, a rich backstory, and the return of beloved characters, fans have much to look forward to. The film promises to deliver the same thrilling action and emotional depth that audiences have come to expect, while also paving the way for new narratives within this captivating universe.
As we await its release, the excitement for Ballerina continues to build. Will this new assassin carve her name alongside John Wick, or will her journey take her down a different path? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the world of John Wick is far from over.