''It was very clear that he was still alive'': John Wick 4 director opens up on film's alternate ending

Renowned director Chad Stahelski, known for his work on the high-octane action franchise John Wick, has shed light on an intriguing aspect of the fourth installment. In a recent interview with Empire magazine, Stahelski discussed an alternate ending that was considered for the film, one that would have provided a definitive answer to the fate of the beloved assassin.

He said:

"We shot an ending where you actually saw John Wick at the end of the movie. So it was very clear that he was still alive. The audiences we tested with absolutely preferred the ambiguous ending."

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Chad Stahelski's battle of endings: Creative choices and audience preference for John Wick 4

Chad Stahelski revealed that an alternate ending was filmed for John Wick 4, which unambiguously depicted the lead character's survival. This ending would have shown John Wick walking away from a pivotal duel without any visible injuries, accompanied by a smile suggesting his triumph over mortality.

However, after conducting test screenings, it became evident that audiences overwhelmingly preferred the more enigmatic conclusion that left Wick's fate open to interpretation.

Stahelski explained:

"We had a different ending. [The theatrical ending] was the ending Keanu and I wanted, but we shot a different ending."

He also disclosed that both he and actor Keanu Reeves, who portrays the titular character, were in favor of the ending that made it into theaters. This decision highlights their shared vision and creative collaboration throughout the franchise.

Stahelski said:

"We didn’t feel like we stuck the landing, and that’s a shitty feeling. Because we love the character, we love working together, we love the world."

Stahelski acknowledged that Chapter 3 - Parabellum didn't provide the satisfying conclusion they desired. Their dedication to the character and the intricate universe they had crafted fueled their determination to create a fitting ending that would resonate with audiences.

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The uncertain future: Speculation and anticipation for the next film in the franchise

Chad Stahelski continues to be a prominent figure in the film industry, renowned for his expertise in crafting exhilarating action sequences. While he expressed uncertainty regarding John Wick 5, the success of the franchise at the box office suggests that the possibility of further films remains open.

The latest entry in the franchise not only delivered breathtaking action but also aimed to provide a more fulfilling finale than its predecessor. Stahelski's commitment to the character and his desire to offer fans the best possible conclusion motivated the creative process behind the film.

With the success of John Wick 4 and the enduring popularity of the franchise, fans eagerly await news of a potential fifth installment. The future of the universe lies in the hands of Stahelski and Reeves, who have previously expressed their admiration for the character and enjoyment of collaborating on the films.

While no concrete plans have been announced for the next film, the possibility of further adventures for the legendary assassin cannot be dismissed.

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The future of the franchise hangs in the balance

In conclusion, Chad Stahelski's revelation regarding an alternate ending for John Wick 4 sheds light on the director's commitment to the franchise's conclusion. The decision to opt for an ambiguous ending, despite having a more explicit alternative, demonstrates Stahelski's respect for audience preferences and the desire to maintain the suspense and intrigue surrounding the character.

As fans eagerly anticipate the potential continuation of the series, the director's passion for the franchise and dedication to providing a satisfying conclusion remains evident.