SXSW 2023 kicks off in Austin today with the world premiere of “Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves.” But now Lionsgate looks to steal the thunder from Paramount‘s fantasy-action film. Deadline reports that Lionsgate brings “John Wick: Chapter 4” to SXSW early next week for a special secret screening of the actioner. So for those in Austin for the festival, take heed: maybe Keanu Reeves and director Chad Stahleski will be there in person.
It should come as no surprise that Lionsgate returns to SXSW this year to debut another big film. They did so last year with their meta-comedy “The Unbearable Weight Of Massive Talent” with Nic Cage and Pedro Pascal to much fanfare. And with the excellent projected box office numbers ahead of the March 24 opening weekend for “JW4,” it makes sense that Lionsgate would want to drum up even more hype for the film. Projections indicate that “JW4” may make up to $70 million over its opening weekend, a franchise best.
For reference, “John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum” made $56.8 million on its opening weekend in 2019 before grossing $328.3 million worldwide in its theatrical run. So, those are the numbers Lionsgate wants “JW4” to beat. Is it possible? Almost certainly, especially since fans have salivated over this sequel since Reeves and Stahelski introduced a surprise first trailer for the film at Comic-Con last year in San Diego.
“JW4” sees Reeves reprise his role as John Wick, who must face off against a new enemy as he attempts to defeat the High Table once and for all. This installment of the actioner series also stars Donnie Yen, Bill Skarsgård, Laurence Fishburne, Hiroyuki Sanada, and Shamier Anderson. Lance Reddick, Rina Sawayama, Scott Adkins, Clancy Brown, and Natalia Tena also star. Marko Zaror also stars, with Ian McShane also back as Winston Scott, the manager of the New York Continental Hotel.
“JW4” clocks in at a nearly 3-hour runtime, so brace yourselves, John Wick fans. The film hits theaters everywhere on March 24 following its screening at SXSW 2023 early next week.
