A successful Hollywood franchise is the gift that keeps on giving for producers and filmmakers as it gives them the opportunity to develop and explore a universe unique to said franchise. Whether that be in the form of superhero films such as The Avengers or a classic Disney franchise like Toy Story, having the opportunity to explore said franchise across a series of projects affords those responsible with the chance to experiment and provide fans with something new and unique every time they step into a theater. Some franchises end up becoming so successful that they transcend film entirely and have to explore new creative outlets, with one recent Hollywood franchise set to do exactly that. The John Wick franchise has been on a remarkable run over the past few years with a fourth installment already confirmed to be on the way, and now we know a prequel series titled The Continental is on the way as well that should add another layer to the exciting franchise.
The John Wick films have been lauded by critics and moviegoers alike with Keanu Reeves starring in the titular role as a trained hitman who can go toe-to-toe with virtually anybody on Earth. In the films Reeves’ character is additionally a member of an underground network of criminals that centers around a Brooklyn hotel named The Continental. As you might’ve anticipated, said hotel is set to serve as the setting of the upcoming new series which will be set prior to the events of the John Wick franchise while additionally adding a unique twist to it. The upcoming series will be set in 1975 and centered around a younger version of Winston Scott, Ian McShane’s character in the films and The Continental’s manager, played by Colin Woodel as he confronts his past and attempts to seize control of the titular hotel. Alongside Woodel, Lionsgate has also cast Peter Greene and Ayomide Adegun to additionally play roles originally found in the franchise as well as Mel Gibson who is set to star in a unique new role that should be intriguing to say the least. The Continental has been ordered for three episodes penned by Greg Coolidge and Kirk Ward, with further details set to emerge in the coming future as production commences.
Most franchises celebrate reaching three films as it indicates a trilogy is completed, however some expand beyond that. Lionsgate has already produced three incredibly successful John Wick films with a fourth on the way, a spin-off film in production and now a prequel series to boot, highlighting the success Reeves has had in the titular role rather well. Diehard fans have plenty to look forward to with John Wick 4: Hagakure set to debut in May of next year and further updates about The Continental set to emerge in the coming weeks.
