How a spec script about a ballerina assassin became a John Wick universe staple
In short: Originally conceived as a standalone project, Ballerina evolved into a pivotal spin-off within the John Wick franchise. Starring Ana de Armas as the vengeful Eve Macarro, the film bridges the gap between the third and fourth installments, blending high-stakes action with the intricate mythology of the Ruska Roma crime syndicate.
The journey of Ballerina began in 2017 when writer Shay Hatten penned a spec script that caught the attention of Lionsgate. Recognizing its potential, the studio acquired the project and tasked Hatten with weaving it into the established John Wick universe. The film’s development saw director Len Wiseman join in 2019, working alongside producer Chad Stahelski to ensure the action sequences maintained the franchise's signature intensity. Principal photography took place between November 2022 and January 2023, primarily in Prague and Budapest, with additional reshoots occurring in February 2024.
The narrative follows Eve Macarro, a trained assassin and ballerina seeking vengeance for her father’s death at the hands of a mysterious cult based in Hallstatt, Austria. As Eve navigates a world of assassins, she encounters familiar faces from the series, including Winston Scott and John Wick himself. The film explores the tension between the Ruska Roma—an organization of ballerina assassins—and the rogue cultists who operate outside the traditional rules of the Continental. This conflict forces Eve to confront her own past, including the revelation that her long-lost sister, Lena, is an operative for the enemy.
Released on June 6, 2025, after a year-long delay, Ballerina grossed $140.2 million worldwide against a $90 million production budget. Critical reception was generally positive, with many praising the creative action choreography and the performance of Ana de Armas. While some critics noted the film's reliance on established franchise tropes, audiences responded warmly, awarding it an A- grade on CinemaScore. With plans for a potential sequel already in discussion, the film serves as both a standalone origin story and a significant expansion of the Wickverse, setting the stage for future narratives involving Eve’s struggle against the consequences of her choices.
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