“WICK IS PAIN” DOCUMENTARY

Wick Is Pain is the incredible true story behind the John Wick franchise, starring Keanu Reeves. What began as an independent film—facing numerous obstacles, including financing challenges, before Lionsgate acquired it in 2014—quickly evolved into a global phenomenon that redefined the action genre and launched three megahit sequels. Join Keanu Reeves, director Chad Stahelski, and the extended Wick cast and crew as they go behind the scenes of this billion-dollar franchise that almost never happened.

The documentary is directed by Jeffrey Doe, produced by Josh Oreck, Gabriel Roth, and Matthew Sidle, and executive produced by Tina Carter.

The film will screen exclusively at Beyond Fest at the American Cinematheque on May 8, and will be available to buy on digital platforms where movies are purchased, including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Fandango at Home, YouTube, Microsoft Movies & TV, and Comcast Xfinity, among others, the next day, May 9 (with pre-orders starting May 1). 

“I’m excited to share and be a part of taking fans behind the curtain on the extraordinary journey of making the John Wick films,” said Keanu Reeves.

Chad Stahelski said, “We had an idea for a low-budget independent movie. Looking back now, more than ten years later, it’s hard to believe what that idea became. It’s the fans that embraced the movie that made it all possible—and made all the pain a pleasure.”

Basil Iwanyk said, “We have never worked harder on any movie than we have on the John Wick series. Producing a movie is always long hours and stressful times, but John Wick turned that up to the max—and because we survived, that’s what made the movies so gratifying.”

David Leitch, producer of John Wick, added, “It’s safe to say that John Wick changed our lives, for everyone involved. We had been waiting for the opportunity to show our vision of what action filmmaking could be, and this film and this character gave us that opportunity. Thank you, Mr. Wick.”

Director Jeffrey Doe said, “From the beginning of this project, Chad’s only guidance was ‘Keep it honest.’ The bold candor from Chad, Keanu, and the rest of the Wick team was incredible. They helped us shape a raw, unflinching take on the costs of sticking to your guns to achieve an artistic vision, filled with all the physical, emotional, and personal suffering that brings. It’s been a privilege to share their remarkable story of pain, joy, and triumph in a way that I hope it captivates John Wick fans everywhere!”