Lionsgate has unveiled the poster and trailer for "Wick Is Pain," a documentary that delves into the making of the iconic John Wick franchise. This film features insights from Keanu Reeves, director Chad Stahelski, and the original cast and crew, reflecting on the franchise's tumultuous beginnings and its unexpected rise to fame.
Tracing the journey from a low-budget indie film to a billion-dollar franchise, "Wick Is Pain" reveals the struggles the team faced, including financial panic and emotional strain during production. The trailer highlights how Stahelski even borrowed against his house to keep the project alive. It also revisits the controversial decision to kill a dog on screen, a move that broke a Hollywood taboo and ultimately became a pivotal moment for the franchise.
"Wick Is Pain" showcases a raw and honest side of Reeves and Stahelski, who discuss their enduring bond and the toll the films took on them. "They bleed Wick. They die Wick," producer David Leitch remarks in the trailer, encapsulating their commitment to the project.
Shot over more than a decade, the documentary features behind-the-scenes footage that has never been released before. Viewers will witness moments of chaos, doubt, and conflict, alongside the loyalty, friendship, and relentless effort that transformed John Wick into a global phenomenon.
Set to be available digitally on May 9, 2025, "Wick Is Pain" is directed by Jeffrey Doe and produced by Josh Oreck, Gabriel Roth, and Matthew Sidle, with executive producers Chad Stahelski, Keanu Reeves, and Tina Carter. The cast includes Reeves, Stahelski, and the broader John Wick crew.
What’s next for the franchise? Keanu Reeves will reprise his role as the super assassin in "John Wick 5," which is confirmed to be in development. Additionally, the spin-off "From the World of John Wick: Ballerina," starring Ana de Armas, is set to open in theaters on June 6, 2025. This film follows an assassin trained in the traditions of the Ruska Roma organization as she seeks revenge for her father’s death. A prequel anime is also in the works, telling the story of John Wick before the first film, as he completes the Impossible Task — killing all his rivals in one night. Furthermore, Donnie Yen will star in a spinoff that continues the story of Caine from "John Wick: Chapter 4."
"Wick Is Pain" not only serves as a retrospective of the franchise but also as a testament to the challenges and triumphs behind the scenes. It highlights the blood, sweat, and tears that went into creating what has become one of the most successful action franchises in cinema history.
In a time when the action genre is evolving, John Wick has redefined expectations and set a new standard for filmmaking. The documentary will premiere at Beyond Fest at the American Cinematheque in Los Angeles on May 8, 2025, before its digital release the following day. The film chronicles John Wick’s journey from independent film, facing a mountain of creative, financial, and personal challenges, into a global phenomenon that has launched three megahit sequels.
Producer David Leitch recalls the frantic efforts to secure funding, remembering how they scrambled to find $6.5 million over a single weekend. The documentary reveals that actress and producer Eva Longoria stepped in with the crucial funds at the last minute, saving the production from cancellation. Without her support, John Wick might have remained a cult curiosity rather than the billion-dollar franchise it is today.
As the documentary approaches its release, anticipation builds among fans eager to see the unseen footage and hear firsthand accounts of the making of John Wick. Reeves himself expressed excitement about sharing this behind-the-scenes journey, stating, "I'm excited to share and be a part of taking fans behind the curtain on the extraordinary journey of making the John Wick films."
With its compelling narrative and rich history, "Wick Is Pain" promises to be a captivating watch for fans of the franchise and newcomers alike. As the team reflects on their shared experiences, the documentary serves as a reminder of the dedication and passion that brought John Wick to life.
As the franchise continues to expand with new projects, including the highly anticipated "Ballerina" and the ongoing development of "John Wick 5," the legacy of the original film remains strong. The upcoming documentary not only pays homage to the journey of John Wick but also sets the stage for future installments that will undoubtedly keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
