Following the ecstatic reception of "John Wick Chapter 2," it was reported that Lionsgate decided to fast-track its sequel for a fall 2017 production start. However, it seems unlikely for "John Wick Chapter 3" to kick off filming before the new year.
Omega Underground has been tracking the production of the third installment of the Keanu Reeves-starred franchise, specifically its location scouting and casting. It turns out there has not been any major progress on the highly-anticipated movie.
While the stunt team has reportedly been assembled by director Chad Stahelski and producer David Leitch, production crews have not been formally hired and casting has also not started yet. This lead to speculation that the film might not be on as fast of a track as previously assumed. That being said, the fall 2017 shoot seems unrealistic at this juncture.
The publication says one possible reason behind the perceived delay is that franchise director David Leitch is trying to finish the post on "Deadpool 2," which premieres on June 1, 2018, before production commences on "Chapter 3." This way, the same creative team would be on board for both of the projects.
Plot details on "John Wick Chapter 3" are currently scarce, but Reeves previously teased at the New York Comic-Con that it may see the titular assassin in some sort of trouble. It is also expected to delve more on The High Table, the international syndicate that controls the world of assassins and criminal enterprises, and how it works.
Stahelski also wants more of "where John comes from and where he wants to go." Whichever direction it goes, the director plans the movie to conclude the franchise, although that may be up to the studio.
The "John Wick" franchise, which follows a retired hitman seeking vengeance for the killing of his puppy, has been a success for Lionsgate with a total of $260 million dollars in worldwide grosses so far. A TV spinoff titled "The Continental" was announced back in June, but it has no release date yet.
"John Wick Chapter 3" is set for release on May 17, 2019.
