Entertainment

How John Wick Saved the Movie Studios

In a time when Hollywood seems to be struggling with fresh ideas, John Wick stands out as an unexpected playbook for creating original movie franchises. As John Wick celebrates its 10th anniversary, it’s remarkable how this $25 million film about a hitman’s journey to avenge his dog managed to build a billion-dollar empire—one that Hollywood surprisingly failed to replicate. This is how John Wick saved the movie studios.

The industry continues to churn out costly, often repetitive IPs, which has led to the downfall of once surefire hits, from Marvel and DC projects to prestige films like Killers of the Flower Moon. But John Wick presented a solution for Hollywood: creating lower-budget, high-quality films with a unique premise that can grow organically. Here’s how John Wick redefined what it takes to build a profitable franchise.

A Simple Idea That Worked

In his book They Shouldn’t Have Killed His Dog, John Wick producer Basil Iwanyk explains his philosophy, “Action movies you could make for $25 million plus or minus five. It’s the most obvious thing in the world, but nobody seems to understand that.” Iwanyk’s strategy proved successful—four films later, the John Wick franchise has surpassed $1 billion in box office revenue. By keeping budgets manageable, John Wick demonstrated that modestly priced films could deliver impressive returns, offering both box-office revenue and potential for expansion through sequels and spin-offs.

However, it wasn’t just the budget that contributed to John Wick‘s success. A few crucial elements had to fall into place.

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The Slump Breaker: Casting Keanu Reeves

John Wick was released when Keanu Reeves was in need of a hit. His career was in a lull, with films like 47 Ronin and The Day the Earth Stood Still failing to resonate with audiences. When John Wick came along, it was the perfect project for Reeves—a disciplined actor experienced in action roles. Basil Iwanyk recalls sending Reeves a script originally written for a 75-year-old hitman, with a note: “Clearly, you’re not 75.” This role gave Reeves the opportunity to show off his martial arts and weapons training skills, which ultimately reinvigorated his career.

The 87Eleven Method: A Frugal Approach to Production

To make John Wick within budget, the filmmakers had to cut back elsewhere. Enter Chad Stahelski and David Leitch, the film’s directors, who had backgrounds in stunt work and founded 87Eleven Action Design, an action choreography company. They had a cost-effective method: choreographing and designing complex fight scenes in a gym using pre-visualization. This approach allowed them to plan every camera angle, movement, and sequence beforehand, reducing on-set expenses. By the time filming began, the entire cast and crew knew the fight sequences inside and out, minimizing wasted time and keeping costs low.

The 87Eleven method enabled them to focus the limited budget on making every scene dynamic. With Stahelski and Leitch, John Wick established a new model for cost-efficient action films, effectively prioritizing quality over quantity.

The Visual Aesthetic: Limitations Breed Innovation

John Wick also set itself apart by embracing stylistic choices born out of necessity. The long, unbroken takes in the action sequences weren’t just a creative choice—they were a budget-friendly necessity. At the time, the production couldn’t afford multiple cameras, so Stahelski and Leitch opted for single, continuous shots that not only saved money but also became a signature style of the franchise. This creative workaround ultimately made the film’s fight scenes more visceral, a refreshing contrast to the rapid cuts typically seen in Hollywood action.

Car Chases on a Budget

The final act of John Wick features an iconic car chase that might look like a big-budget set piece, but it was actually produced on a tight budget. The team chose a single location—the Brooklyn Navy Yard—and filmed at night, saving money on securing multiple locations and permitting. Using everyday cars like Dodge Challengers and Chevy Tahoes, they avoided the expense of high-end vehicles while delivering a thrilling sequence that didn’t break the bank.

The Success Formula: Budget-Friendly with a Clear Focus

When John Wick hit theatres in 2014, it generated $86 million on its $25 million budget, a 4x return that guaranteed a follow-up. The formula was simple yet effective: prioritize action, keep the plot straightforward, and deliver everything with a stylized touch. This formula allowed the filmmakers to take the franchise forward, focusing more on creativity than financial constraints.

The Sequels: Doubling Down on Action and World-Building

With each new film, the John Wick series expanded in scope without losing sight of what made it work.

John Wick: Chapter 2: With a $40 million budget, the filmmakers introduced more sophisticated fight choreography and innovative sets, including the iconic House of Mirrors. This sequel generated $171 million, proving that audiences were still hooked.
John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum: This time, the budget jumped to $75 million, which brought the franchise’s most impressive set pieces yet, including a scene with Belgian Malinois dogs attacking villains alongside Halle Berry. The film raked in $327 million, showcasing the franchise’s continued popularity.
John Wick: Chapter 4: Boasting a $100 million budget, this film pushed the limits with an almost three-hour runtime packed with intense action scenes. The “car fu” fight sequence near the Arc de Triomphe demonstrated the franchise’s commitment to real stunts, even as CGI was sparingly used to enhance the visuals. The franchise peaked, delivering action that had grown in complexity without losing its gritty, grounded feel.

Lessons for Hollywood: Why Didn’t Anyone Follow Suit?

The John Wick series is a rare example of an original franchise succeeding in an era where reboots, sequels, and superhero films dominate. Its success shows that Hollywood can still produce profitable franchises without relying on established IPs or massive budgets. Yet, few studios have taken note.

Hollywood’s resistance to lower-budget original action films, despite John Wick’s success, could stem from the appeal of high-budget productions or the certainty that established franchises bring. However, John Wick exemplifies that well-crafted, lower-budget films with a unique vision can yield incredible returns.

The Franchise’s Influence and the Future of Action Cinema

John Wick not only sparked sequels but also influenced a wave of similar films, from Sisu to Nobody. These films emulated John Wick’s aesthetic and approach, though few replicated its success. By emphasizing choreography, stylized visuals, and character-driven storytelling, John Wick paved the way for a new era in action cinema.

If Hollywood could heed the lessons of John Wick, it might be able to navigate a landscape where audiences increasingly seek originality and high-quality storytelling. As audiences grow tired of over-budgeted, underwhelming blockbusters, John Wick reminds us that a modestly priced, carefully crafted film can achieve both critical and commercial success.

What’s Next for the John Wick Franchise?

While John Wick: Chapter 4 marked the supposed end of the titular character’s journey, the franchise’s universe is far from over. With a spin-off TV series, The Continental, and a planned film focusing on Ana de Armas’ character from Parabellum, the John Wick universe continues to expand.

This success story highlights that with the right mix of vision, budget-consciousness, and dedication, Hollywood can create new franchises without relying solely on familiar faces and concepts. Ultimately, John Wick’s journey from a humble $25 million film to a billion-dollar franchise is a blueprint that Hollywood can’t afford to ignore if it hopes to evolve.

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Entertainment

Will The Studio Save Hollywood or Tear It Down?

In a time when the film industry is under immense pressure—hemorrhaging cash, losing cultural capital, and clinging desperately to reboots and IP—Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg’s new Apple TV+ series The Studio might just be the mirror Hollywood didn’t ask for, but desperately needed.

After the razor-sharp satire of Deadpool & Wolverine, which hilariously skewered the superhero genre’s current crisis of originality, The Studio feels like the next logical step: turning the camera back on the machine itself. With early reviews declaring it a “genius takedown” of the modern studio system (sitting at a whopping 96% on Rotten Tomatoes as of this writing), audiences are already asking: is this what Hollywood needs—or another nail in its coffin?

A Satirical Love Letter to a Crumbling Empire

The Studio follows Matt Remick (Rogen), the newly appointed head of Continental Studios, a fictional but all-too-familiar entertainment giant struggling to remain relevant in a post-streaming, post-blockbuster, post-everything era. The official synopsis promises panic-stricken executives, narcissistic artists, corporate overlords, and career-threatening chaos in a series that’s equal parts absurd comedy and brutal industry truth.

It’s a tone that immediately recalls The Player, Robert Altman’s 1992 classic about the soulless machinery of Tinseltown. And like Altman’s film, The Studio thrives on its self-awareness. As Martin Scorsese—yes, playing himself—shouts at Rogen’s character in a chaotic scene, the show leans into the irony of Hollywood eating itself from the inside out.

The Studio Photo — The Studio features a diverse list of actors

Timing Is Everything

With only two episodes currently available (as of 26 March on Apple TV+), it’s too early to predict whether the show’s narrative arc will stick the landing. But its arrival couldn’t be timelier.

Hollywood’s long-standing model is collapsing under the weight of its own bloated ambitions. In 2023 and early 2024, major studios lost billions on failed sequels and live-action remakes (Snow White, we see you), while audiences turned to indie fare, creator-driven content, or non-Hollywood productions from Korea, Europe, and even the UAE. As the marketing budgets balloon to absurd proportions, the creative spark seems to shrink.

The Studio pulls back the curtain on all of it—and it’s not pretty.

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A Reflection of a New Era

This is not just another industry satire; it’s a cultural commentary on how out-of-touch the power brokers have become. Gone are the days of Robert Evans and Michael Ovitz calling the shots in smoke-filled rooms. Today, the real power might belong to a YouTuber with a half-decent script and an iPhone.

And this is perhaps the greatest irony The Studio taps into: the very system it’s satirising is so broken, so desperate for something new, that it may inadvertently champion the indie revolution it once ignored. With platforms like TikTok and Substack birthing stars and storytellers faster than Hollywood can process, studios are increasingly irrelevant in the creative ecosystem.

Is It Bad for Hollywood?

That depends on how we define Hollywood.

If we’re talking about the archaic, money-burning, ego-fuelled studio model that gave us a million-dollar marketing campaign for a sequel no one asked for—then yes, The Studio might be a eulogy. But if we’re talking about the art of storytelling, the magic of cinema, and the power of bold, fresh voices? Then The Studio might actually be part of the solution.

In many ways, it’s not dissimilar to Deadpool & Wolverine. Both are willing to laugh at the absurdity of the industry they love. And in doing so, they may help reinvent it.

The Studio Seth Rogen Hollywood Satire Nails It

Final Thoughts

With biting wit and impeccable timing, The Studio arrives as both a love letter and a warning to Hollywood. It reminds us that while the studio gates may still stand, the world has long since started building its own outside them.

One thing’s for sure: if The Studio is half as smart as its opening episodes suggest, we’ll be talking about it long after this season ends—and maybe even long after Hollywood figures out its next move.

The Studio Is out now on Apple+

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Entertainment

James Bond to Remain British and Male, Confirms Amazon

Ever since Amazon’s acquisition of MGM, fans and industry insiders alike have speculated about the future of one of cinema’s most iconic characters: James Bond. With questions swirling around potential major changes to the character’s identity, Amazon has officially clarified their stance: James Bond will continue to be portrayed as both British and male.

This announcement arrives amidst significant conversation about diversity, gender representation, and the evolving nature of iconic film characters. But according to Amazon, the essential elements that have defined Bond for over six decades will remain unchanged. Thereby, James Bond remains British and male, aligning with the historical portrayal.

Here’s what you need to know about the future of the legendary 007:

Amazon’s Commitment to Bond’s Legacy

In a recent statement, Amazon emphasised their respect for Bond’s traditional portrayal, reassuring fans that the British spy’s cultural identity and core characteristics will remain consistent. James Bond, first introduced by author Ian Fleming in the 1953 novel Casino Royale, has long been synonymous with British sophistication, wit, charm, and masculinity—elements Amazon intends to preserve.

This news arrives as a relief for many longtime Bond enthusiasts, who voiced concerns that changing the character’s fundamental attributes could potentially dilute his identity. By confirming Bond’s continuity, Amazon underscores its commitment to maintaining the integrity and historical significance of the franchise and ensuring James Bond will always remain British.

Respecting Fleming’s Vision

Ian Fleming created James Bond as a distinctly British character—a sophisticated, charismatic spy whose British identity is integral to his appeal. Fleming’s Bond embodied the confidence and resourcefulness of post-war Britain, quickly becoming an enduring cultural icon.

Amazon has clearly expressed a dedication to Fleming’s original vision, which aligns closely with fans’ expectations. Their decision respects the foundational elements of Bond’s character, honouring both Fleming’s legacy and the series’ rich cinematic history. They confirm that James Bond will remain British.

Daniel Craig has been the latest incarnation of Bond

Why Amazon Won’t Change Bond’s Gender

While some have suggested reimagining James Bond as a woman or altering his nationality to appeal to broader audiences, Amazon insists such changes are unnecessary. Their reasoning aligns with sentiments previously expressed by Bond film producers, including Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, who maintain that creating strong, original characters is preferable to altering Bond’s established identity.

Bond’s masculinity and British identity have always been central to his narrative—changing these attributes, according to the franchise’s caretakers, would fundamentally alter the essence of the character. Amazon clearly wants James Bond to remain British and male.

Continuing to Evolve—Within Tradition

Though Amazon remains committed to Bond’s traditional characteristics, they also acknowledge the importance of modernising the character within the bounds of his original identity. Recent films like Skyfall, Spectre, and No Time to Die demonstrate how Bond can evolve—showing emotional vulnerability, depth, and complexity—without compromising the core elements fans cherish.

Future films under Amazon’s ownership will likely continue this trend, striking a careful balance between modern sensibilities and classic Bond charm. Even as things change, James Bond shall remain British.

What’s Next for the Bond Franchise?

Amazon’s confirmation on Bond’s identity paves the way for a new era in the franchise, particularly as the search for Daniel Craig’s successor intensifies. Potential contenders continue to emerge, with actors like Henry Cavill, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Idris Elba, Richard Madden, and Tom Hardy frequently mentioned.

Regardless of who steps into the role, fans can now confidently anticipate a Bond that remains true to his heritage and the traits that have made him an enduring global phenomenon. They’ll have the assurance that James Bond remains British.

Amazon’s Bond: A Global Brand with British Roots

Amazon’s commitment to Bond’s British heritage also signifies their understanding of the global appeal rooted in his distinctly British charm. Keeping Bond authentically British and male is not just a nod to tradition—it’s a strategic move designed to protect one of entertainment’s most valuable and internationally beloved properties.

Final Thoughts: Staying True to the Bond Legacy

Amazon’s decision reaffirms James Bond’s place as a timeless figure who, despite changes in actors and storytelling styles, retains his essential characteristics. Bond fans can rest easy knowing their favourite spy’s identity and heritage remain firmly intact, even as the character continues to adapt to modern tastes and cinematic trends. After all, James Bond is set to remain British.

The future looks promising for 007: firmly British, unquestionably masculine, and continuing to captivate audiences worldwide.

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Entertainment

The Gentlemen Returns: Season 2 of Guy Ritchie’s Crime Comedy

Netflix’s hit series, The Gentlemen, inspired by Guy Ritchie’s critically acclaimed 2019 film, is officially returning for a second season. Fans eagerly awaiting the next chapter of this witty, action-packed journey into Britain’s aristocratic underworld can rejoice—Theo James and Kaya Scodelario are back to continue the chaotic exploits of Eddie Halstead and Susie Glass. Expect even more schemes, rivalries, and dark humour as they dive deeper into the business of high-stakes crime. The Gentlemen Returns.

A recap on Season one’s greatness.

What is “The Gentlemen” All About?

For those unfamiliar, The Gentlemen revolves around Eddie Halstead, brilliantly portrayed by Theo James, who unexpectedly inherits the title of Duke of Halstead—and all the challenges that come with it. When he discovers his family’s hidden connections to Britain’s most notorious criminal enterprises, his privileged world quickly spirals into chaos, which the return of The Gentlemen will further explore.

At his side is Susie Glass, portrayed by the talented Kaya Scodelario. Initially at odds, Eddie and Susie form an unlikely yet compelling partnership, diving headfirst into a dangerous yet glamorous world of illicit dealings. Their evolving dynamic is equal parts humorous, intense, and undeniably captivating. The Gentlemen’s return will delve deeper into this partnership.

Season 1 Recap: A Crash Course in Crime

Season one introduced audiences to Eddie’s transformation from reluctant aristocrat to a sharp-minded partner in crime. Teamed up with Susie Glass (Kaya Scodelario) and her loyal ally Bobby, Eddie found himself managing a sophisticated cannabis empire, navigating London’s elite circles and gritty back alleys alike.

Their adventures weren’t without peril—confrontations with quirky, dangerous rival gangs brought comedic moments and nail-biting suspense in equal measure. The first season concluded with Eddie solidifying his position as co-owner of the lucrative cannabis enterprise alongside Susie and Bobby, leaving viewers eager to see what happens next when The Gentlemen Returns in season two.

The Gentlemen 2 sequel series coming to Netflix with new lead

What to Expect in Season 2

As season two prepares to launch, viewers can expect an even deeper dive into the complexities of running a criminal empire. Actress Kaya Scodelario teased the upcoming season, saying, “It’d be fun to see the business spread a bit more. How do they take it to the next level? Expanding the operation without losing control—that’s the next big challenge.”

Theo James, meanwhile, highlighted the evolving relationship between Eddie and Susie, describing it as complicated and layered. “I think they’ve grown to love each other in their own way, but ultimately, they’ll never fully trust each other because they’re from vastly different worlds,” James explained. The new season of The Gentlemen Returns will see their partnership face new pressures, intense rivalries, and unexpected alliances as they confront powerful and eccentric crime bosses throughout the UK and Europe.

Some beloved cast members will be back for Season 2

Behind the Scenes: Guy Ritchie’s Return & Production Details

Fans of Guy Ritchie’s unique storytelling style can celebrate his return as executive producer alongside Matthew Read, who co-writes the series. The duo promises another sharp-witted script full of Ritchie’s trademark rapid dialogue, stylish visuals, and darkly comedic undertones that made the original film and first season fan favourites.

Filming for season two is scheduled to commence next year, with an official premiere date anticipated soon after production wraps. The eight-episode run is expected to maintain the fast-paced rhythm and stylish direction synonymous with Ritchie’s filmmaking, ensuring fans another binge-worthy experience when The Gentlemen Returns.

Cast & Characters: A Stellar Line-up Returns

Returning alongside Theo James and Kaya Scodelario are fan favourites from the first season, alongside some intriguing new additions that will be announced closer to production:

Theo James as Eddie Halstead: Aristocrat turned cannabis empire co-owner navigating complex relationships and criminal rivalries.
Kaya Scodelario as Susie Glass: Eddie’s shrewd and daring business partner whose loyalty is as unpredictable as her charm.

Their undeniable on-screen chemistry was a standout element of season one, and it will be fascinating to watch their characters evolve further, deepening the show’s intricate web of relationships, deceit, and humor. Fans will undoubtedly be excited when The Gentlemen Returns.

Guy Ritchie's 'The Gentlemen' Renewed for Season 2 — Guy Ritchie’s ‘The Gentlemen’ Renewed for Season 2

A Fresh Take on Crime Comedy

The Gentlemen series successfully combined dark humor, stylish aesthetics, and intriguing characters, striking a perfect balance between crime drama and comedic flair. Season two of The Gentlemen Returns promises to elevate these elements, providing deeper insights into criminal dynamics, relationships, and power struggles while keeping its signature comedic undertones front and centre.

It’s clear Netflix has faith in The Gentlemen’s formula for success. The show’s unique blend of stylish visuals, razor-sharp dialogue, and charismatic performances has quickly built a dedicated fanbase eager to see what trouble Eddie, Susie, and their quirky crew will find next.

Guy Ritchie's flair for comedy had not gone unnoticed.

Final Thoughts: Crime Just Got Classier

The Gentlemen’s return signals another thrilling ride into Britain’s eccentric and treacherous criminal elite, promising viewers a masterclass in crime, comedy, and culture clashes. Season two is set to further explore how these charming criminals balance luxury, legacy, and lawlessness—keeping viewers laughing, guessing, and thoroughly entertained when The Gentlemen Returns.

Stay tuned for Netflix’s announcement of the official release date. Until then, prepare yourself for another gripping, stylish, and mischievously entertaining trip into aristocratic crime.

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