We catch our first real glimpse of the three-part ‘John Wick’ franchise prequel miniseries, set in 1975, that showcases characters whose assassin shenanigans are sure to thrill when it hits Peacock September 2023.
Peacock has finally released first look images for The Continental: From the World of John Wick, the three-part event that explores the origin story behind the iconic hotel-for-assassins centerpiece of the John Wick universe, seen through the eyes of a young Winston Scott (Colin Woodell, based on Ian McShane’s character in the films). In the show, Winston charts a deadly course through the hotel’s mysterious underworld in a harrowing attempt to seize the hotel which will become his future throne.
The four Wick films take place over a 3-month span,” said executive producer Basil Iwanyk. “John is either chasing, or being chased. There has been no time to take a breath, to allow the audience to dig deeper into the world and its denizens. In our show, The Continental, we finally have space to explore these characters, how they became who they are, and how The Continental became the epicenter of this world. Combine that with introducing new characters that are as compelling as any in the John Wick universe. Action that’s crazy cool and inventive. Easter eggs that will excite the hardcore Wick fans. And what I love the most: a vision of ‘70s New York that embodies the sexiness, edginess, and visceral style that the franchise is known for. This show will look/sound/smell cooler than any show out there.”
Joining Woodell in the cast are Ayomide Adegun (as a young Charon based on Lance Reddick’s character); Peter Greene (based on the tight-lipped body disposal expert); Mel Gibson (as Cormac); Ben Robson (as Frankie); Hubert Point-Du Jour (as Miles); Jessica Allain (as Lou); Mishel Prada (as KD); and Nhung Kate (as Yen).
Executive producer and director for Parts 1 and 3, Albert Hughes, adds, “The soundtrack became a character in itself and reflects all that is American culture - a tapestry of distinct identities and experiences pieced together to create something truly unique. Early on in our process we wrote the words “Disco Noir” on the wall. It was emblematic of the experience we wanted to create. Music filled our work room and became the heartbeat of this show as we took turns sharing our favorite tracks from our youth. Each song is more distinct from the next as we come from different worlds, creating a soundtrack featuring the most eclectic mix of needle drops with genres ranging from classic rock, pop, punk, funk, R&B, soul, reggae and disco.”
Under the guidance of production VFX supervisor John Decker, visual effects studios on the show include Black Box FX; Crafty Apes; FuseFX; MARZ; and Zoic Studios.
Greg Coolidge and Kirk Ward serve as writers and showrunners and executive produce alongside Albert Hughes, Thunder Road Pictures’ Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee; Chad Stahelski; Derek Kolstad; David Leitch; Shawn Simmons; Paul Wernick; Rhett Reese and Marshall Persinger. Hughes directs the first and third episodes, with Charlotte Brandstrom directing the second.
The Continental will premiere exclusively on Peacock in September 2023.
Journalist, antique shop owner, aspiring gemologist—Laurén brings a diverse perspective to animation, where every frame reflects her varied passions.
