Ballerina, the first side story of the John Wick universe, fell short of expectations in its first weekend of release. Starring Ana de Armas and featuring Keanu Reeves’ brief appearance as John Wick, the film grossed only $25 million in the US. Its global gross remained at $26 million.
Ballerina failed to meet expectations
Thus, despite its $90 million production budget, the film’s total first weekend earnings reached $51 million. This figure was considerably lower than John Wick 4’s $137.5 million opening. Ballerina’s box office performance created uncertainty in Lionsgate’s plans to expand the John Wick universe.
The studio aimed to expand this universe not only with the main series but also with various spin-off projects and series in the long term. The unsuccessful opening of Ballerina, the first concrete step of these plans, made the future of ongoing and in-development side projects uncertain.
Lionsgate’s previously announced projects include an anime series based on the John Wick character and a film focusing on the character played by Donnie Yen. Neither project has yet entered production. The picture that emerges over the first weekend could negatively impact the approval process for these projects.
On the other hand, John Wick 5 is still in development and it is stated that this film is progressing independently of Ballerina’s performance. So what do you think about this film? You can share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.
