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Ana de Armas Kicks Ass in "Ballerina": A John Wick Spin-Off That Delivers
Get ready for some serious action! Lionsgate UK just dropped the final trailer for "Ballerina," the highly anticipated John Wick spin-off, and it's a whirlwind of breathtaking fight choreography and familiar faces. Starring the incredibly talented Ana de Armas, this film promises to be a thrilling addition to the Wickiverse, and it's not just another cash grab.
A Dance With Death
The trailer opens with de Armas, playing the vengeful assassin Rooney, flawlessly executing ballet moves that quickly transition into brutal combat. It’s a stunning visual, showcasing director Len Wiseman's ability to blend the elegance of dance with the raw intensity of the John Wick universe. The film takes place between "John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum" and "Chapter 4," allowing for some exciting crossovers.
- Weaponized Ballet: The fight scenes are a mesmerizing mix of dance and deadly combat.
- Continental Connections: Keanu Reeves makes a welcome return as John Wick, albeit in a supporting role.
- Emotional Depth: The trailer hints at a compelling backstory for Rooney, adding emotional weight to the action.
- Global Locations: From the neon lights of Tokyo to the grandeur of European cathedrals, the settings are as stunning as the action.
De Armas's dedication to the role is evident. She underwent extensive training in ballet, martial arts, and weapons handling, performing 80% of her own stunts. The result is some of the most impressive female-led action sequences we've seen in years.
Fitting Into the Wickiverse
Ballerina serves as a bridge between John Wick: Chapter 3 and Chapter 4. The trailer includes several clever references that confirm this placement:
| Timeline Marker | Significance |
|---|---|
| Winston's Bandaged Hand | Places events after the Parabellum Continental siege |
| Charon's Presence | Confirms a pre-Chapter 4 timeline |
| High Table Tensions | Aligns with the power vacuum after the Adjudicator's defeat |
The story follows Rooney, a former Ruska Roma assassin, who seeks revenge after her mentor's death. Her quest intersects with Wick's own battles, explaining his cameo appearance.
A Stellar Supporting Cast
While de Armas rightfully takes center stage, the supporting cast adds depth and intrigue:
- Gabriel Byrne plays Rooney's mentor.
- Catalina Sandino Moreno portrays a mysterious figure from Rooney's past.
- The late Lance Reddick makes a final appearance as Charon.
- Norman Reedus is rumored to play a tracker.
- Ian McShane's Winston is featured in a tense scene with Rooney.
Redefining Female-Led Action
Ballerina arrives at a crucial time for women in action cinema. Rooney's fighting style—a unique blend of ballet and combat—is both feminine and lethal, avoiding the typical "emotionless badass" trope. The film explores the physical and psychological toll of assassin life, adding layers of emotional complexity to the action.
Conclusion
The "Ballerina" trailer surpasses expectations. It's not just a spin-off; it's a significant expansion of the John Wick universe that stands on its own two feet (or pointe shoes!). Ana de Armas delivers a captivating performance, and Len Wiseman’s direction is slick and stylish. With its blend of breathtaking action, compelling characters, and emotional depth, "Ballerina" is shaping up to be a must-see film. Prepare for a killer performance when it hits theaters on June 6, 2025!
