Keanu Reeves Says Japanese Anime and Filmmaking Was a Huge Influence on JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4

We are getting close to the fourth film in the Keanu Reeves-led John Wick film franchise, John Wick: Chapter 4, and fans are looking forward to some more kick-ass action in the style that only these films bring. The movies are made by Chad Stahelski, who has brought in elements of Japanese filmmaking to the franchise, and Reeves recently sat down with Total Film (via CBR) to talk about it, saying:

"Japanese anime and Japanese filmmaking have definitely been something I’ve loved and have been influenced by. And bushido is definitely a theme in our film – you know, the code of the samurai – so, from the outside, it feels like a great fit, the idea of honor and sacrifice. There’s definitely a strong Japanese influence."

The film was shot in Japan, France, and Germany, and sees Reeves return as Jonathan "John" Wick/Jardani Jovonovich, a professional assassin. In an earlier interview, Reeves shared how demanding it was to shoot the film, saying:

"In terms of action, it’s the hardest film I’ve ever made. But that’s what makes it good."

Stahelski also previously talked about how the fourth installment in the series acts as a good conclusion to the previous three films.

"We introduce a ton of new characters that have a lot to say about John Wick from his past and from, obviously, present. I think it's brotherhood, it's hope. It's what the life would really be like as a bit of an existential crisis with John, and I think that's the fun part of the movie."

John Wick: Chapter 4 is set to hit theaters on March 24, 2023. Are you pumped for this movie?!