To commemorate its 10th anniversary, the beloved action thriller John Wick is making a grand return to theaters. Directed by Chad Stahelski and starring Keanu Reeves, the film has become a cornerstone of modern action cinema, known for its visceral fight choreography, gripping storyline, and stylish cinematography.
In celebration of this milestone, John Wick will hit theaters once again for two nights, and Lionsgate and Fathom Events are teaming up to make the experience special by unveiling a new trailer and poster. Fans will also get an exclusive sneak peek at the upcoming John Wick spinoff, Ballerina, starring Ana de Armas.
John Wick Celebrates a Decade of Action: Limited Theatrical Run
The 10th-anniversary screenings are scheduled for November 3 and November 6, giving fans an opportunity to relive the pulse-pounding intensity of John Wick on the big screen. According to a joint press release from Lionsgate and Fathom Events, tickets for this limited engagement can be purchased through Fathom’s official website. In addition to revisiting the original film, audiences will be treated to a special preview of Ballerina, an exciting spin-off in the expanding John Wick universe. This film, featuring Ana de Armas in the lead, also includes appearances from John Wick veterans Keanu Reeves, Lance Reddick, and Ian McShane.
A New Trailer and Poster: “Yeah, I’m Thinking I’m Back“
As part of the 10th-anniversary celebrations, a new trailer and poster have been released, paying tribute to some of the most memorable moments in the film. Fans will recognize the iconic line, “Yeah, I’m thinking I’m back,” which perfectly encapsulates the relentless determination of Reeves’ character. The trailer teases the unyielding, action-heavy sequences that have made John Wick a beloved franchise over the years, while the poster captures the stoic, vengeful demeanor of Reeves’ titular character, ready to unleash chaos once again.
Though Stahelski initially feared that the film would not resonate with audiences—especially after lukewarm test screenings—John Wick defied expectations upon its release in October 2014. The film earned rave reviews and grossed $86 million globally, far exceeding its $30 million budget. What began as a standalone neo-noir action flick has since transformed into a cultural phenomenon, with sequels pushing the franchise’s boundaries and growing its fanbase.
Revisiting the Original: A Tale of Loss, Revenge, and Redemption
The story of John Wick centers around Reeves’ portrayal of a retired hitman grieving the recent death of his wife, Helen. His life is thrown into disarray when Russian gangsters, led by Iosef Tarasov (played by Alfie Allen), break into his home, assault him, and kill his dog—a final gift from his late wife meant to help him cope with his grief. This vicious attack propels Wick back into the violent world he had left behind, seeking vengeance against the mobsters responsible. The emotional stakes of Wick’s journey, combined with the film’s stylized action, created a fresh take on the revenge thriller genre.
The original John Wick cast also includes Ian McShane, Lance Reddick, Michael Nyqvist, John Leguizamo, and Kevin Nash, with each actor contributing to the film’s rich, dynamic world of assassins and underground criminal networks. The film’s success not only cemented Keanu Reeves’ status as an action star but also marked the beginning of an ever-expanding universe.
Expanding the John Wick Universe
Since its release, the John Wick franchise has continued to evolve, with each installment building on the world and lore established in the first film. The most recent installment, John Wick: Chapter 4, was both a critical and commercial triumph, becoming the highest-grossing entry in the series. Following this success, Lionsgate confirmed that a fifth film is in development, with Reeves set to reprise his role. However, production on the next sequel is currently on hold as Stahelski focuses on other projects.
In addition to the main films, the John Wick universe has grown to include multiple spinoffs. One of the most anticipated projects is Ballerina, which is set between John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum and Chapter 4. The film is expected to delve deeper into the intricate world of assassins, offering a fresh perspective while staying true to the style and intensity of the original series.
Stahelski is also overseeing the development of several other spinoffs, including one focused on Donnie Yen’s character Caine, and an anime series exploring further layers of the John Wick world. Last year, fans were introduced to The Continental, a prequel series that aired on Peacock and featured Colin Woodell and Mel Gibson.
The Legacy of John Wick
As John Wick returns to theaters to celebrate its 10th anniversary, its legacy as one of the most influential action films of the 21st century is undeniable. What began as a simple revenge tale has blossomed into a global franchise, renowned for its innovative action choreography, intricate world-building, and unforgettable characters. With new content on the horizon and a fanbase eager for more, the legacy of John Wick shows no signs of slowing down.
The 10th-anniversary screenings will offer both longtime fans and newcomers a chance to experience the magic of John Wick once again, this time with fresh content that hints at the exciting future of the franchise.
When will John Wick re-release?
John Wick will hit theaters once again for two nights on November 3 and November 6.
