Movies
Keanu Reeves Discusses the Influence of Anime and Japanese Cinema on the John Wick Saga
The famous actor says he is such a fan of Japanese martial arts cinema and anime that he has incorporated his love of the genre into his action movie saga.
For decades, the influence of Japanese culture has transcended its own borders to reach all manner of cultural expressions in the West, and both anime and Japanese cinema have much to say about this movement. In fact, actor Keanu Reeves, who has admitted his fondness for Japanese culture on other occasions, has now affirmed that both Japanese martial arts cinema and anime played a key role in shaping the John Wick action saga in which he himself stars.
The influence of anime on the John Wick Saga
In Keanu Reeves' own words, "Japanese anime and Japanese filmmaking have definitely been something I’ve loved and have been influenced by. And bushido is definitely a theme in our film – you know, the code of the samurai – so, from the outside, it feels like a great fit, the idea of honor and sacrifice. There’s definitely a strong Japanese influence," the actor said in an interview with Total Film (via (CBR).
In addition, Chad Stahelski, the director of the four John Wick installments, declares himself to be an absolute fan of Japanese culture and Asian cinema in general, especially of the martial arts genre. Of course, Keanu Reeves has already demonstrated on previous occasions his fondness for and commitment to Japanese culture and these types of formats, whether through martial arts films or anime. From 47 Ronin, based on a classic Japanese story, to The Matrix, a franchise with an evident Eastern influence in both its choreography and filming techniques.
John Wick 4 will hit theaters on March 24, 2023. We have already had several trailers for this movie, and each one makes it look more impressive and promising.
Source | Total Film (via CBR)