Keanu Reeves explains why he wanted John Wick: Chapter 4 to remain a theatrical release. The action star’s fourth outing as the Baba Yaga saw its release date delayed numerous times, mainly due to the COVID-19 pandemic but also because of Reeves’ other commitments to The Matrix Resurrections. However, John Wick: Chapter 4 held out for a theatrical release from Lionsgate and is bowing in theaters next month.
During a recent interview with Wired, Reeves explained why he always wanted John Wick: Chapter 4 to be a theatrical release in lieu of streaming. The John Wick star waxed poetic on the virtues of the big screen, explaining how the larger scale better immerses the audience in the performances and storytelling. Read what he said below:
It’s dreams, right? And immersion. I think the power of cinema—part of it is its novelty, but also its scale. You see a close-up of a wonderful performance with emotions and storytelling that touch you. Whether it’s horror or action or comedy, you’re seeing a face that’s, you know, 20 feet tall. Yeah. You’re, like, there. The intimacy of that.
Why John Wick Is Better On The Big Screen
Directed once again by Chad Stahelski, John Wick: Chapter 4 will find Reeves’ titular assassin facing off against a formidable enemy in order to finally defeat the High Table and earn his freedom. Since its inception in 2014, the John Wick film series has been known for its masterfully choreographed and stylized action sequences, created mostly through practical effects and stunt work. The John Wick films are also known for their visually striking and vibrant color palettes inspired by the neo-noir genre, which are elements best experienced on the big screen.
In addition to its visceral action and stunning visuals, Reeves’ comments also touch on how the nuances of John Wick‘s performances are best experienced on the big screen. A few newcomers joining the franchise in John Wick: Chapter 4 are It‘s Bill Skarsgård as the deadly villain The Marquis de Gramont and action veteran Donnie Yen as the blind assassin Caine, both of which will be performances to watch. The wait for the action thriller is almost over, as John Wick: Chapter 4 releases on March 24.
Source: Wired
