Frustrated filmmakers often lament having insufficient time or budget to bring their cinematic visions to life. However, it’s much rarer to hear about studios that provide filmmakers with extra resources to enhance a project. Yet this is precisely what happened with Ballerina, a new addition to the popular John Wick series.
Ballerina, officially titled From the World of John Wick: Ballerina, was originally slated for release last year. Following the impressive performance of John Wick: Chapter 4, Lionsgate recognized the potential for this film as part of an expanding franchise and decided to grant the team additional funding and time to inject more action into the storyline. As a result, audiences can look forward to seeing Ana de Armas portray an assassin, albeit a year later than initially expected.
As Ballerina gears up for its release this Friday, we had the chance to discuss the film with director Len Wiseman. Known for his work in the Underworld series, Wiseman shares insights on how to balance creative freedom with studio expectations. We explored the importance of collaboration with franchise co-creator Chad Stahelski, the unique challenges of crafting captivating Wick-style action sequences, and whether Keanu Reeves’ involvement in the film was always part of the plan.
How Did the Expanded Budget Impact the Film?
The additional time and budget provided by Lionsgate allowed for a more thorough development process. Wiseman enthusiastically recounted, “Having a little bit of a break to regroup with the whole team about mapping out those sequences was exciting. It felt like a gift.” This level of support is indeed uncommon in Hollywood, and it offers filmmakers a rare opportunity to realize their vision fully.
Collaborating with Chad Stahelski
With Chad Stahelski at the helm of the John Wick franchise, his input was invaluable. Wiseman noted the importance of conversations surrounding the franchise’s tone and style. “Chad has a unique creative approach to action. It’s not just about loud fights; it’s about clever choreography that keeps audiences engaged,” he explained. This shared vision for the film’s action sequences is crucial, making each moment feel not just intense but also intelligent.
Crafting Unique Action Scenes: The Creative Process
So, how do these extraordinary action scenes come about? Wiseman detailed his approach to filmmaking, saying, “I’ll build those sets in my garage to visualize the sequences.” By developing concepts for unique fight scenarios—like a grenade fight that resembles a snowball battle—he can bring freshness to the action. His hands-on style reflects a dedication to elevating the action genre.
Are the Flamethrower Sequences Real or CGI?
The flamethrower battles in Ballerina are predominantly practical effects. Wiseman ensured safety while executing dramatic visual sequences, explaining, “We wanted to pull off the absurdity of a flamethrower duel in a way that felt both real and violently entertaining.” The commitment to practical effects aligns with the franchise’s core ethos, reinforcing its gritty yet captivating nature.
Was Keanu Reeves Always Part of the Project?
Regarding actor Keanu Reeves, Wiseman clarified that while Reeves shot his scenes early in production, this was not initially part of the project design. “Keanu was involved regarding how it connects to the larger John Wick timeline,” he stated, but added that his role was not a sequel character. Instead, it shapes a parallel experience that enriches the Wick universe.
Balancing Realism with Action
Creating a believable narrative within a heightened action hero context can be tricky. Wiseman emphasized the significance of showcasing vulnerability, stating, “It’s crucial for the audience to feel the pain and consequences of each action scene.” This authenticity distinguishes Ballerina from typical superhero flicks, where the stakes often feel unreal.
Mark your calendars for this Friday to see what Ana de Armas and Keanu Reeves bring to the action-packed world of Ballerina.
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