Now that filming is underway in New York City, Deadline is reporting that John Wick 2 is beginning to beef up its cast list in anticipation of the film’s tentative 2016 release window, and it’s clear that Keanu Reeves’ legendary assassin will be making some new friends for better or worse.
With artist-cum-actor Common (Lonnie Rashid Lynn Jr.) instated as the principal villain, the outlet brings word that Orange is the New Black breakout Ruby Rose, Riccardo Scamarcio and Peter Stormare of Fargo fame have all boarded the action sequel in unknown roles, rounding out an ensemble that has already made room for the likes of John Leguizamo, Bridget Moynahan, Tom Sadowski, Lance Reddick and Ian McShane as fan-favorite and wholly bonkers hotel owner, Winston.
Chad Stahelski takes the directing reins for John Wick 2 having co-directed the original cult hit last year alongside David Leitch. Though he stepped away from the director’s chair, it’s understood the latter will remain attached to produce the follow-up, while Basil Iwanyk is also in line to produce on behalf of Thunder Road.
Details are, as you would imagine, thin on the ground when it comes to John Wick 2. Not only is there little-to-no information about the core storyline, but Deadline didn’t disclose any information about how those aforementioned newcomers will fit into it. Then again, it’s really the blistering, near-relentless action that cemented the original’s cult status, and we have every confidence that Reeves and Stahelski can crack a similar formula once more.
Expect a string of updates to find their way online over the coming weeks and months as development heats up on John Wick 2. Keanu Reeves’ title killer is primed to return to the silver screen to kick ass and take names – and possible avenge another dead animal – at some point in 2016.
