The Jaw-Dropping Hotline Miami-Inspired Action Scene That Almost Didn't Make It Into John Wick 4

The action scenes in the John Wick franchise are a major point of praise, with hand-to-hand combat mixed with firearms that have become iconic. Chad Stahelski, the director, has a background in action and stunt work, and John Wick: Chapter 4 took it up a notch with even bigger action than before. However, Scott Rogers, the stunt coordinator, revealed in an exclusive interview with Screen Rant that the studio initially wanted to cut one of the movie's biggest action sequences. This scene, shot from an overhead perspective in a Hotline Miami-style, required extensive preparation that Lionsgate had multiple objections to.

Scott Rogers emphasized the importance of months of training and preparation when building an elite fight team. The process involves various departments, including VFX, and requires a visionary person to develop it. However, many studios and executives lack the patience and vision for such extensive preparation, often leading to attempts to cut or revise scenes. Describing the concept to them can be difficult, with many struggling to understand the vision behind it.

Chad Stahelski Raises The Bar With John Wick: Chapter 4

Stahelski's John Wick franchise has set a new standard for action movies, boasting a seamless blend of world building, storytelling, and cutting-edge action sequences. Each installment of the series has added new elements, with John Wick: Chapter 4 featuring massive action set pieces such as a thrilling car chase and a fight atop the Arc de Triomphe and Montmartre stairs.

The overhead shot of John Wick's brutal and tactical rampage during the action sequence is a unique and innovative approach, which might have caused some hesitation from the studio. However, Stahelski's exceptional talent and visionary approach shine through as he meticulously prepares and executes these scenes, setting him apart from other action directors.

Stahelski's determination to push for this particular sequence highlights the importance of having a visionary director with a flair for action at the helm of the John Wick franchise. This particular scene is a testament to Stahelski's growth as a director and the pivotal role he plays in ensuring the success of the movie on set. Without Stahelski's willingness to take risks, challenge the status quo, and work collaboratively with each department, John Wick: Chapter 4 could have taken a vastly different direction. It is this willingness to innovate and strive for excellence that sets this franchise apart from the rest.