Keanu Reeves is Back for JOHN WICK 2

Yeah, we're thinking he's back. Lionsgate is moving forward with the sequel to last year's awesome small-budget actioner "John Wick". Despite being a simplistic revenge flick, the film managed to build its generic plot into something more through excellent action choreography and some very interesting characters and performances. While it was far from some kind of intelectual revelation, the film rebuilt Keanu Reeves' action star status and went on to gross $78.7 million worldwide on a $20 million budget.

The sequel will be directed by original helmers David Leitch and Chad Stahleski and Reeves will reprise the role of the titular character. Also returning for the new installment is screenwriter Derek Kolstad. Leitch and Stahleski previously announced that they "have ideas for days and without blinking twice we know we can outdo the action from the original". And, considering the vivid universe they managed to build in the first movie, there are plenty of places to go next with the story.

Here is the official press release from Lionsgate announcing "John Wick 2":

"Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF) has confirmed plans to produce a sequel to 2014’s critically-acclaimed breakout hit “JOHN WICK,” it was announced today by Rob Friedman and Patrick Wachsberger, Co-Chairmen of the Theatrical Motion Pictures Group. Keanu Reeves along with directors David Leitch and Chad Stahelski as well as screenwriter, Derek Kolstad are set to return for the sequel. The film will be released through Lionsgate’s Summit Entertainment and will be produced by Thunder Road’s Basil Iwanyk, who produced the first film.

In the follow up to last year’s adrenaline-fueled revenge and redemption thriller, legendary hit man John Wick is back.

“With such tremendous fan and critical support for ‘John Wick,’ we knew that there was still so much more of this story to tell,” said Jason Constantine, President of Acquisitions and Co-Productions. “We are thrilled that Keanu, David and Chad have re-teamed with us and promise to bring audiences even more excitement the second time around.”

Jason Constantine and Eda Kowan at Lionsgate will oversee the project on behalf of the studio.

Lionsgate International will be selling the picture internationally at the upcoming Cannes Film Market."

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