John Wick: Chapter 4 brought unprecedented commercial success to the hit action-drama franchise led by Keanu Reeves. Directed by Chad Stahelski, the film went on to gross $440.1 million globally becoming the highest-grossing film in the franchise. As a result, speculation about plans for a fifth installment has been rife since the fourth film’s release.
A new theory regarding the fifth chapter discusses how the next installment can continue the story without bringing back Keanu Reeves’ titular character who perishes at the end of the fourth movie. While reviving the character would be a challenge considering the heroic ending to John Wick’s arc, the theory suggests an alternative route. Here is how John Wick 5 could push the story and action to new levels without necessarily bringing back Keanu Reeves.
John Wick 5 Could Turn Keanu Reeves Into a Martyr
Keanu Reeves‘ titular character is the heart and soul of the John Wick franchise. However, the fourth installment ends with John’s demise as his battle with the council of assassins known as the High Table comes to an end. As a result, it is difficult to imagine a fifth installment in the franchise without Reeves reprising the role.
A new theory hints that the franchise could move forward without the involvement of Reeves and spoiling the ending of the fourth installment. Throughout the franchise, John has a deadly and fearsome reputation among the High Table assassins. John is one of the few people to free himself from the shackles of the organization and earn his freedom to start a new life.
John Wick 5 could build upon this reputation by portraying John as a martyr who fought against the corrupt and unjust methods of the High Table. At the same time, other characters such as Caine could help further this reputation of a martyr which will likely lead to serious implications in the wider world of John Wick. Hence, the world and legacy of John Wick could live on without the titular character.
John Wick’s Death Could Lead to an Uprising Against the High Table
The High Table is the prevalent antagonistic force in the world of John Wick. However, by earning his freedom from the organization, John earned his legendary reputation amongst the assassins. Moreover, John dies fighting against the High Table in an emotional ending to the fourth film. John’s story could inspire other High Table assassins to fight against the organization for their freedom.
The fifth film could focus on the uprising against the High Table and culminate with its dismantling. As a result, John’s martyr status could be the instigating point that leads to an all-out war against the High Table. However, John’s demise would become even more emotional and noble if it led to a total reorganization of the High Table.
As a result, the fifth film could work without the legendary assassin appearing on screen. At the same time, Reeves’ John Wick not being involved in the battle to take down the High Table will make his ultimate fate even more bittersweet. A fifth film in the franchise was reportedly being developed by Lionsgate as of November 2023.
John Wick: Chapter 4 is streaming on Starz.
