Stunt coordinator Stephen Dunlevy explains how ballet influences the action sequences in
Ballerina
and why it is so important in the world of
John Wick
.
Ballerina
will follow a young new assassin, played by Ana de Armas, who is being trained at the same ballet academy that John Wick was trained at.
Ballerina
is the first spinoff of the action franchise and will focus on a new character, although John Wick, Winston, and Charon will all make appearances.During an exclusive interview with
Screen Rant
for the home release of
John Wick: Chapter 4,
stunt coordinator Stephen Dunlevy teased
Ballerina
's action. He discussed how ballet fits into the world of the Keanu Reeves-led franchise, namely how they will influence the
John Wick
We aimed to steer clear of the clichéd portrayal of ballerinas in action scenes where they pirouette into kicks and other similar moves. In the John Wick universe, ballet training is about developing the endurance and toughness required to execute physically demanding stunts. The focus is on grit and determination to push through even when exhausted, injured, and in pain - the kind of resilience that enables a performer to wrap up a bleeding toe and keep going. This is the direction we wanted to take with the film's action scenes and the emotion behind them.
How Ballet Creates Hardened Assassins In Ballerina And John Wick
Ballerina
will stand out from the other
The upcoming movie will shift its focus from John Wick to a new character, bringing a fresh perspective to the world of assassins. While John Wick's storyline begins with his return from retirement for a revenge mission, the new character played by Ana de Armas is still in the midst of her training, adding a unique dynamic to the narrative.
Ballerina
will also offer a
new perspective on John Wick
, showing some of his origins through her training and how other characters view him.
Ballet plays an important role in
Ballerina
. By emphasizing the discipline, focus, and physical control necessary for ballet, Wick is able to apply those principles to his own combat tactics. This unique approach gives him a tactical advantage over his opponents, allowing him to move with precision and grace in even the most chaotic and intense situations. The incorporation of ballet into Wick's training ultimately highlights the importance of a holistic approach to physical fitness and combat readiness.
of development in a dancer's career, from the early years of training to the peak of their performance. This progression can be seen in the complexity and difficulty of the choreography, as well as the emotional depth conveyed through the movements. The dedication and discipline required to master ballet is truly awe-inspiring, and the audience is able to witness this firsthand through the artistry of the dancers.
Despite Wick's extensive experience as an assassin, de Armas' character is still in the process of learning and may require further training to overcome her injuries and effectively complete the mission at hand. It appears that the fluidity and elegance of ballet have not played a significant role in the action depicted in Ballerina.
, perseverance and mental toughness fit perfectly into this world and John Wick's style of fighting.