How 'Ballerina' fits into the 'John Wick' timeline, explained

'Ballerina' is the much-awaited spin-off in Keanu Reeves's 'John Wick' franchise
PUBLISHED DEC 10, 2024
'Ballerina', starring Ana de Armas in lead, is the fifth film in 'John Wick' universe (Lionsgate/@larrydhorricks)
'Ballerina', starring Ana de Armas in lead, is the fifth film in 'John Wick' universe (Lionsgate/@larrydhorricks)

The world of 'John Wick' is expanding. Keanu Reeves starrer action-thriller franchise is returning with jaw-dropping stunts and grittier showdowns in a spin-off film titled 'Ballerina'. It's the first spin-off of the franchise, which indicates that things are just getting started in 'John Wick' universe.

'Knives Out' actress Ana de Armas is taking center stage as fierce Eve Macarro. She plays a ballerina who starts training with the sole mission of revenge. Ahead of the release of the film, there are several questions hovering in the minds of every fan. Will Keanu Reeves be a part of the spin-off? Where will 'Ballerina' fit into the 'John Wick' timeline? ...and so on! But don't worry, as we have got you covered.

'Ballerina' timeline in 'John Wick' universe, explained

Ana de Armas in 'Ballerina' (Lionsgate/@murrayclose)
Ana de Armas in 'Ballerina' (Lionsgate/@murrayclose)

Don't mistake 'Ballerina' as a standalone spin-off as it holds an important space in the franchise. The events of the film take place during 'John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum'. 'Ballerina' trailer confirms the timeline by showing scenes where Eve witnesses John’s visit to The Director. Now if you pay close attention, you'll notice Wick with the same cuts on his face as he did in Chapter 3.

Remember what happened in Chapter 3? John Wick was on the run, dodging every assassin. While that film showcased the titular character's solo quest for survival, 'Ballerina' presents a fresh perspective by focusing on Eve's journey who wants to avenge her father's death. With this clever overlap, the franchise is able to bridge two intriguing stories. But more than that, it succeeds in expanding the universe without stepping on Wick’s iconic shadow.

Will Keanu Reeves return as John Wick in 'Ballerina'?

Keanu Reeves in 'John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum' (Lionsgate)
Keanu Reeves in 'John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum' (Lionsgate)

Yes, Keanu Reeves will return as John Wick in 'Ballerina'. However, his screen time is expected to be quite limited as the focus remains on Eve Macarro's story. Anjelica Huston and Ian McShane will also be reprising their roles from the previous films. This film will mark Lance Reddick's final appearance as Charon following his death on March 17, 2023.

The film directed by Len Wiseman is scheduled to release on June 6, 2025, in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

'Ballerina' trailer



 



GET THE BIGGEST ENTERTAINMENT STORIES
STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.

MORE STORIES

The movie is slated for a theatrical release later this year, with Odeya Rush in the mix
1 hour ago
Alan Ruck's performance in 'Succession' earned him widespread success. He is now back with an unsettling new horror project, 'Corporate Power.'
5 hours ago
Guy Ritchie has a busy year ahead of him with both 'MobLand' and 'The Gentleman' releasing new seasons
13 hours ago
Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Karl Urban star in key roles in the gritty 1800s pirate actioner
1 day ago
Stellan Skarsgård's Golden Globes comments have the fans excited about a possible Meryl Streep return in 'Mamma Mia!' 3
1 day ago
Taking to Instagram, the duo revealed the 'Avengers: Doomsday' teasers were clues, and not trailers
1 day ago
Production has already begun for Nicolas Cage's new film, ‘Best Pancakes in the County,’ alongside Justin Long and Shelley Hennig
1 day ago
This will be the duo's first work together after HBO's fantasy drama concluded its epic run in 2019
2 days ago
Speculations have been rife since Damson Idris' latest comments on whether he was the next Black Panther
2 days ago
The new Marvel casting rumor is turning heads after a familiar 'Stranger Things' star enters the X-Men reboot conversation.
2 days ago