While studios weigh streaming vs. theatrical release in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, Lionsgate reaffirmed its commitment to the big screen. For "John Wick" fans, though, it means an extra year of waiting for the return of their main man.
"John Wick 4," the next installment of Keanu Reeves' popular action-movie franchise, has been delayed from a May 21, 2021 release to May 22, 2022, due to a game of Hollywood musical chairs caused by production delays and theater closures because of COVID-19 concerns.
The move does solve one problem for the Keanu faithful forced to choose between his projects: "The Matrix 4," a new chapter in Reeves' other action franchise, is also slated for the original 2021 date. Now, that will go head to head against the Lionsgate horror film "Spiral," Chris Rock's upcoming addition to the "Saw" series that was pulled off the calendar in March. In addition, the thriller "Antebellum," starring Janelle Monae, is now coming out Aug. 21.
Also shifting dates: The thriller "Fatale," starring Michael Ealy and Hilary Swank, is coming Oct. 30 after being delayed from its initial June 19 date; the Kristen Wiig comedy "Barb & Star Go to Vista Del Mar" moves nearly a year, from July 31 to July 16, 2021; the action sequel "The Hitman's Wife's Bodyguard," reteaming Ryan Reynolds and Samuel L. Jackson, is delayed from Aug. 28 to Aug. 21, 2021; and the sports biopic "American Underdog: The Kurt Warner Story" is getting punted from Dec. 18 to Dec. 10, 2021.
