Summary
The Continental is a prequel origin story for the character Winston Scott, portrayed by Ian McShane in the John Wick films.
The content explores the role of the Continental hotel in the John Wick universe, delving into its origins and significance in the criminal underworld. It sheds light on the mythology, lore, and rules of the High Table, highlighting the hotel's importance to hitmen and criminals within the universe as a whole.
The Continental takes place in the universe of John Wick, raising questions about its connection to the original films and Keanu Reeves' iconic hitman character. The idea for The Continental series was conceived in 2017 by director Chad Stahelski, who has directed all four John Wick movies, and writer Derek Kolstad, as they explored ways to expand the universe. The show was officially announced in 2018, with Stahelski and Kolstad agreeing that the best way to tell the story of the John Wick expansion was through a long-form TV format.
Reflecting its title, The Continental focuses on the hotel of the same name featured in the John Wick films. In these films, The Continental acts as a network of worldwide hotels that serve as safe havens for individuals involved in John's line of work. These hotels provide various services, including accommodation, weaponry, clothing, and other resources for hitmen in the John Wick universe. While it is clear that The Continental is connected to the films in this way, audiences have been curious about its place in the John Wick timeline and any other connections the series may hold to the movies.
The Continental Is A Prequel Origin Story For John Wick Character Winston Scott
The Continental is closely tied to the world of John Wick primarily through its protagonist. Set in 1970s New York, the series focuses on the early journey of Winston Scott, who is portrayed by Ian McShane as the manager of the New York Continental and an ally of John Wick in the four films.
As a prequel to John Wick, The Continental delves into Winston's ascent in the New York underworld and his eventual position as the hotel's manager. Alongside Winston, other familiar characters from the John Wick films make appearances, such as Charon, portrayed by the late Lance Reddick, who serves as the concierge.
The Continental Further Explores The Hotel's Function In The John Wick Universe's Criminal Underworld
In addition to Winston's involvement in The Continental, the series delves deeper into the role of the prestigious establishment in the John Wick universe. Throughout the four John Wick films, the Continental gradually gains more prominence, yet its origins and significance in John Wick's criminal underworld remain shrouded in mystery. However, The Continental unravels this enigma.
The Continental sheds light on the mythology, lore, and regulations of the High Table - the governing body of John Wick's criminal empire. Notably, the series provides a comprehensive depiction of the New York hotel itself, offering more details that were previously absent in the John Wick movies. From the strict rules prohibiting business transactions on Continental grounds to the intricacies of the currency, services, and other essential elements tied to John Wick, The Continental establishes strong connections to its sequel series. It explores the hotel's crucial role within the expansive universe of assassins and criminals.