If you’re going into battle, you want Wick by your side.
The John Wick franchise has become a beloved action movie series for its stunning fight choreography, stylish visuals, and memorable characters. But beyond its entertainment value, the franchise also offers valuable lessons for aspiring writers and directors.
From world-building to character development to practical effects, the franchise is a masterclass in storytelling and filmmaking.
In this article, we will explore ten writing and directing tips from the franchise that can help you craft your own compelling and impactful stories.
Let’s lock and load.
10 Writing and Directing Tips from the John Wick Franchise
As we have watched over the years, the John Wick franchise offers valuable insights into the art of storytelling and filmmaking. The franchise’s success can be attributed to its commitment to excellence in every aspect of filmmaking, from the script to the action sequences to the performances.
By studying the franchise and applying its lessons to your own work, you can improve your craft and create stories that resonate with audiences. In the following sections, we will examine the ten writing and directing tips that the John Wick franchise can teach us, and explore how they can be applied to your own work.
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Create a unique and compelling world: John Wick’s world is filled with its own rules, codes, and hierarchy, which make it intriguing and immersive for the audience.
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Develop a strong central character: John Wick is a complex and fascinating character that the audience roots in thanks to his motivations, flaws, and skills.
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Balance action and character: While the franchise is known for its visceral and stylish action, it also invests in character development and emotional stakes.
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Choreograph action sequences with purpose: Every action scene in the franchise is designed to advance the story, reveal character, or highlight a theme rather than just showcase cool moves.
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Utilize practical effects and stunts: The John Wick franchise relies on practical effects, such as real stunts, fights, and explosions, which add authenticity and impact to the action.
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Pay attention to details: From the costumes to the props to the language, John Wick’s world is rich in details that enhance the story and immerse the audience.
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Create a memorable villain: The John Wick movies feature several memorable and distinct villains who challenge John Wick and add tension to the story. Even Keanu Reeves knows when to eliminate something like unnecessary dialogue that doesn’t work for the story.
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Use humor strategically: Despite its serious and violent tone, the movies also have moments of humor and levity that balance the intensity and add charm.
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Collaborate with a trusted team: The franchise has a core team of filmmakers and performers, including director Chad Stahelski and actor Keanu Reeves, who collaborate and innovate together.
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Experiment and evolve: The John Wick franchise has evolved and expanded with each installment, experimenting with new genres, characters, and settings while staying true to its core elements.
Summing Up 10 Writing and Directing Tips from the John Wick Franchise
The John Wick franchise has set a high bar for action movies and storytelling in general. Its success is a testament to the power of creative collaboration, attention to detail, and continuous experimentation. By applying the tips we’ve discussed, you can elevate your own writing and directing skills and create stories that are not only entertaining but also meaningful and memorable.
Remember to create unique and compelling worlds, develop strong central characters, balance action and character, choreograph action sequences with purpose, pay attention to details, create memorable villains, use humor strategically, collaborate with a trusted team, and experiment and evolve.
By following these guidelines established by the franchise, you can create stories that capture the hearts and imaginations of audiences around the world.
Let me know what you think in the comments.
