Ballet to Bullets: Ana de Armas is the Ballerina
- Every Media Productions
- Jun 9
- 3 min read
The cinematic universe of John Wick, known for its stylized action and intricate mythology, receives a bold expansion with Ballerina, a film starring Ana de Armas as the assassin Eve Macarro.
By Fábio Borges, from Los Angeles
The premise is both familiar and fresh. Eve, an orphan trained by the mysterious Ruska Roma organization, emerges as a powerful force in a male-dominated world. Under the direction of action maestro Len Wiseman (Live Free or Die Hard, Underworld), the film promises to bring a new perspective to the franchise.
“One of the things I really liked about the Ballerina script,” recalls director Len Wiseman, “is that it's almost the opposite of the John Wick story. Wick is trying to leave the assassin's life; Eve wants in… she wants to become an assassin. I was interested in exploring the circumstances under which someone chooses that life.”
The casting of Cuban actress Ana de Armas in the lead role was a strategic move. Following standout performances in Knives Out and a thrilling role in No Time to Die, producers saw in her the ideal mix of vulnerability and strength.
“There was a kind of fire in Ana that I wanted to get to know and work with,” Wiseman remembers.
The film weaves its story into the existing John Wick timeline, bringing back iconic characters. Anjelica Huston reprises her role as The Director, the formidable head of Ruska Roma, whom she describes as a crucial figure in Eve’s life.
“The Director takes Eve in when she’s young and trains her. I think she genuinely cares for her,” Huston shares. “Watching her learn ballet and combat… and perform in these elaborate action sequences was like witnessing a beautiful dance. She’s fierce and powerful.”
The cast also features the return of Ian McShane as Winston, manager of the Continental Hotel, along with a moving posthumous appearance by Lance Reddick as concierge Charon.
McShane reflects on his character’s dynamic with the new protagonist: “Winston has a grounding effect. He’s quite succinct. You never really know who he is. That gives his scenes with Ana de Armas a mysterious tension.”
Reddick’s passing shortly after filming was a deep blow to the team. “We were very lucky to be able to work with Lance,” says McShane. “He was a valued colleague and friend and remains a pillar of the franchise.”
The Assassin Elite Gains Reinforcements
Ballerina also introduces intriguing new characters, such as Daniel Pine, played by Norman Reedus (The Walking Dead), a mysterious assassin who crosses paths with Eve at the Prague Continental.
“I’m honored to join the world of John Wick,” says Reedus. “And I can confidently say there’s nothing like this universe or its passionate fan base.”
Another major addition is Gabriel Byrne, who plays The Chancellor, leader of a cult-like army of assassins. With a touch of humor, Byrne comments on joining the saga:
“Just being near this franchise has boosted my ‘cool’ factor immeasurably.”
He also adds depth to his villain: “Even the most villainous people have human sides. There’s no such thing as a ‘total devil’ villain. Even the real-life ones we hear about are human and that’s what makes them terrifying.”
Keanu Reeves: The Legend Returns
And for the delight of fans, John Wick is back. Keanu Reeves not only reprises his iconic role but was also deeply involved in the production.
“It was really cool, after John Wick: Chapter 4, to have the chance to put the suit back on and have a bit of fun,” said Reeves. His presence on set was collaborative, helping tweak dialogue and suggest action sequences.
“No one knows John Wick better than Keanu,” says Wiseman.
The dynamic between Eve and Wick is a narrative highlight. “It’s interesting to experience John through Eve’s perspective,” observes producer and franchise architect Chad Stahelski. “He’s still John Wick, still a force to be reckoned with but seen differently. He’s a slightly different Wick because we’re viewing him through Eve’s eyes.”
Ana de Armas is the Perfect Ballerina
Ana de Armas takes center stage in Ballerina with intensity and precision, proving she’s the ideal choice to expand the John Wick universe. With her magnetic presence, she transforms the grace of ballet into sheer lethal power, commanding both dramatic and action scenes with mastery.
Eve Macarro is both fierce and sensitive a character who stands out in an unforgiving world. More than just a new character, Ana delivers a performance that redefines female leads in action films and makes Ballerina a memorable chapter in the John Wick saga.
About the Author
Fábio Borges is an award-winning international journalist and founder of Every Media Productions. Since 1996, he has reported from the Americas, Europe and Asia, producing over 4,000 news stories.
