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The filming for 'John Wick: Chapter 3' has begun, with a TV series on the character also in the works

'John Wick: Chapter 3' has begun filming, with several familiar faces expected to make their reappearances in the third instalment of the supremely popular series

Keanu Reeves' portrayal of John Wick, a retired but deadly hitman seeking vengeance who serves as the eponymous anti-hero in the film of the same name, captivated audiences around the world and marked a return to action for one of Hollywood's most beloved actors.

It was no surprise, then, that the success and critical acclaim of the first film led to the birth of a franchise, with 2017's John Wick: Chapter 2 equally well-received. The series was renewed for a third movie as far back as October 2016, well before even the release of the second installment.

Now, taking to Instagram, the film's acclaimed cinematographer, Dan Laustsen, who is known for his work in movies such as Guillermo del Toro's 'Shape Of Water,' as well as 'Silent Hill,' and 'The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen,' announced that filming for the 'John Wick: Chapter 3' has commenced. Laustsen even posted two pictures to give fans a sneak-peek into the sets.

The third installment of the beloved franchise will follow Wick as he is being hunted for a global $14 million open contract on his life. He had broken the central rule of taking a life on the grounds of the Continental Hotel. Wick is given a one-hour grace period by the hotel's manager, Winston, before he is “excommunicado” — membership revoked, banned from all services and cut off from other members. Wick has to use every ounce of his skills and expertise to escape New York City alive.

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It has been reported that Chad Stahelski, who directed 'John Wick' and 'John Wick: Chapter 2,' will be returning to direct the latest movie in the series as well.

Also returning are Common, Laurence Fishburne, and Ruby Rose, who will reprise their roles of Cassian, The Bowery King, and Ares from the second movie respectively. Additionally, it has been announced that Hiroyuki Sanada, of '47 Ronin' and 'The Wolverine' fame, has been cast as the film's antagonist.

Fans can expect some further John Wick content as well. Stahelski and writer Derek Kolstad are reportedly creating a television series based on the characters and settings of the movie. It has been tentatively titled as 'The Continental' and will focus on the hotel featured in the films, as well as the assassins who visit the safe haven. As of January 2018, the series has been confirmed to air on the Starz network.