Keanu Reeves, who plays the titular character in John Wick: Chapter 4, gifted T-shirts to the film’s stunt performers with the number of times they died in the film during the shooting. Director Chad Stahelski said that while Reeves undergoes intense stunts, it is “done out of love.”
Earlier, Reeves had given Rolex watches to the members of his stunt team for John Wick 4, which were inscribed with messages expressing gratitude.
The Climax Scene was Almost Too “difficult to pull off”
The movie, John Wick: Chapter 4 had a sequence with Keanu Reeves and over 35 stunt performers, and one particular performer was taken out five or six times during a demanding scene on the steps leading up to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica in Paris, according to stunt coordinator Scott Rogers.
Reeves said,
“You kind of start working that out when the camera sets up. So when you start moving with the steady cam operator, and you start filling in all the extras, they get familiar with what’s going to happen. And then, if you have to go through people, Chad usually puts in some stunt people that you can shove away and stuff”
“Yeah, just like, ‘Hi, I’m just dancing…’ and John Wick hits you in the face. So it’s really they get to know the situation, get acclimatized, everyone kind of gets through the repetition of it.”
The scene was especially difficult to execute because of the nature of the steps, which were not only narrow and steep but also curved. This meant that all the performers had to be able to navigate the steps and move quickly at the same time, without being hindered by the curvature. To ensure that everyone was safe and could perform the stunts to the best of their ability, Rogers and his team had to choreograph each move very carefully. On the preparation of a scene, Chad Stahelski said,
“Yeah, a lot of rehearsals. I mean, the way we do the martial art choreography, the way our stunt guys train, is mostly like dancers anyways, all based on memory and motion, and group dance or group performance. So when we get together with, you know, I got my 30 stunt guys plus 30 of the dance people, they all kind of work well together, and then we just build the extras out in sections of 50. So you can train them, and then put them in, and you realize who’s good, who’s not, who’s got the right look, who doesn’t. You kind of partition them off to be in different sequences. It does take time, but I think the effect is very cool.”
Additionally, they put in extra time and resources to make sure that the stunt performers were well-trained and prepared for the scene, using crash pads and other safety equipment.
Despite the challenges, the team was able to successfully execute the scene, showcasing the talent and dedication of the stunt performers involved. Their commitment to their craft helped make John Wick the action-packed film it is known for today.
Keanu Reeves has Always Been a Team Man
Keanu Reeves has always shown immense appreciation for the hard work and dedication of his stunt team, and this was evident once again when he gifted them with Rolex watches engraved with messages of thanks during the filming of John Wick 4. The watches were a symbol of gratitude for their extraordinary efforts in helping to bring the film to life and reminded the stunt performers of the special bond they shared with the actor.
Reeves has always been known for his generosity on set, and his commitment to ensuring that everyone involved in the production is well taken care of. He understands the physical and emotional toll that the work takes on stunt performers, and has always made it a priority to show his support and gratitude for their contributions.
The gesture was especially significant given the challenging circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, which made the production of John Wick 4 even more demanding than usual. Despite the difficulties, the stunt team was able to rise to the occasion and deliver outstanding performances, and Reeves’ gift was a testament to the deep respect and admiration he holds for them.
Keanu Reeves Showed Kindness Through Thoughtful Gifts
Reeves is known for his generosity and kindness, having previously made a $50 million donation to help frontline healthcare workers during the global pandemic. He has also reportedly made generous donations to hospitals and cancer charities.
Reeves’ selfless act of kindness is a testament to his character and shows that he truly values the people who help make his movies. His thoughtful gesture of gifting the stunt team T-shirts is a sign of his appreciation and understanding of their hard work and dedication. It is a reminder that his actions speak louder than words and he is more than willing to go the extra mile to show his appreciation.
For many of the stunt team, this was a gesture that will be remembered for years to come. This act of kindness from Keanu Reeves has set an example for others in the industry, that no matter how big or small the gesture is, it can make a world of difference.
Source: The New York Times
