Ana de Armas is set to make a significant mark in the action genre with her starring role in the highly anticipated John Wick spin-off, Ballerina, which is scheduled to hit theaters on June 6, 2025. At CinemaCon 2025, Collider's Steve Weintraub had an exclusive conversation with the actress, who not only stars as assassin Eve Macarro but also serves as an executive producer for the film. This dual role has given her a unique perspective on the project, allowing her to be intimately involved in the creative process from the very beginning.
Ballerina takes place between the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum and John Wick: Chapter 4, delving into the story of Eve, a ballerina-assassin training under the Ruska Roma, a criminal organization that was introduced in the previous films. De Armas describes her character's journey as one of vengeance, seeking to avenge her father's death, a theme that resonates deeply with fans of the franchise.
During the interview, de Armas expressed her excitement about the film, stating, "I’m the most excited I can be. I'm really proud of the film. I watched it the other day, the final cut, and I'm really, really happy with the results. All the hard work shows on screen, and the movie looks beautiful. It's going to be a great experience, especially for John Wick fans." This enthusiasm is palpable, especially considering the extensive work she has put into her role.
De Armas's character, Eve, is not just another female version of John Wick; she is a distinct character with her own backstory and motivations. In her own words, she clarified, "I mean, we didn't want to do a female John Wick. We wanted to do Eve Macarro, you know? I think she's different. She is and she isn't, right? They're both after revenge. She's coming from a lot of pain." Eve's journey is marked by the trauma of witnessing her father's murder, which drives her quest for justice.
The film promises to deliver intense action sequences, which de Armas is eager for audiences to experience. She mentioned a particularly thrilling grenade fight scene and a flamethrower scene that she described as "mind-blowing." She emphasized that the flamethrower sequence is entirely practical, stating, "It was all real, and it took a long time to get it done safely, and it looks stunning." This commitment to practical effects highlights the film's dedication to authenticity and high-octane action.
Notably, Ballerina features a scene where de Armas shares the screen with Keanu Reeves, who reprises his role as John Wick. Reflecting on this experience, she described it as "surreal," adding, "Working with Keanu is always a joy and a huge pleasure. It’s our third film together. It was really cool to see him walking on set with the suit on. I'll never forget that moment. Iconic." Their chemistry is expected to add depth to the film, particularly as Eve seeks guidance from Wick in her early days as an assassin.
De Armas also revealed that she had to adapt to the physical demands of the role, especially during the winter night shoots in Prague. To navigate the icy streets, she wore specially designed boots with screws to prevent slipping, demonstrating her commitment to the role and the challenges of filming intense action scenes.
The film's director, Len Wiseman, known for his work on the Underworld series, brings a fresh perspective to the John Wick universe. The cast also includes notable names such as Ian McShane, Norman Reedus, and the late Lance Reddick, adding to the film's star power and connection to the established franchise.
As the release date approaches, anticipation for Ballerina continues to grow. The film not only expands the John Wick universe but also showcases Ana de Armas in a role that promises to redefine her career. With her fierce portrayal of Eve Macarro, audiences are sure to see a different side of the actress, who has already made waves in the action genre with her previous performances.
In a world where action films often rely on established tropes, Ballerina aims to carve its own path, offering a unique blend of revenge, artistry, and intense action. As de Armas noted, "It’s thrilling, it’s dangerous, it’s sexy—it’s very John Wick. I think people are going to be surprised." With such high expectations, fans of the franchise and newcomers alike are eager to see how Eve's story unfolds and what it means for the future of the John Wick saga.
As the film gears up for its release, it stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of action cinema, where female leads take center stage and narratives are driven by complex characters with rich backstories. Ana de Armas's journey as Eve Macarro is not just a story of revenge; it’s a story of transformation and empowerment, resonating with audiences looking for depth in their action films.
With all eyes on June 6, 2025, Ballerina is poised to make a significant impact in theaters, and Ana de Armas is ready to take her place among the action elite.
