Olivia Munn Shares Her Passion for the John Wick Series
Olivia Munn opens up about her deep appreciation for the John Wick movies, highlighting their groundbreaking stuntwork and Keanu Reeves' hands-on approach to action scenes. She discusses how the franchise has reshaped the action genre and set new standards for fight choreography.
When John Wick first hit theaters, few could have predicted the impact it would have on action movies. Despite a rocky start behind the scenes, the film quickly gained momentum through word of mouth, becoming a standout in modern cinema. Its unique mix of neo-noir style, intricate world-building, and high-octane action sequences set it apart from the crowd. Among those who took notice was Olivia Munn, an actress known for her versatility and love of action films.
Olivia Munn’s Martial Arts Background
Munn, who originally made her mark in romantic comedies, later carved out a niche in action roles with memorable performances in movies like X-Men: Apocalypse, The Predator, and Ride Along 2. Even though some of these films didn’t win over critics, her passion for the genre was clear. In an interview, she revealed her admiration for the John Wick franchise, saying,
“I grew up doing martial arts, and I know that Keanu did all of his own fight scenes in it.”
She reminisced about classic kung fu films, noting how they showcased wide shots of fight scenes, allowing audiences to see the actors’ full movements. Munn appreciated that John Wick brought this style back, letting viewers watch Keanu Reeves perform his own stunts in extended takes.
Authenticity in Action
The decision to focus on practical stunts in John Wick wasn’t just a creative choice—it was also a necessity. With a limited budget, the filmmakers couldn’t rely on expensive visual effects or digital doubles. Instead, directors Chad Stahelski and David Leitch, both former stuntmen, used their expertise to craft fight scenes that felt real and intense. Drawing inspiration from American classics like Die Hard and Dirty Harry, they also incorporated techniques from Asian cinema, which Munn was quick to highlight. She admired the rigorous training and rehearsal that went into each sequence, saying,
“I feel like we don’t get enough of that in American cinema anymore, or actually ever. You have to go back to, like, old kung fu movies and stuff. I just love watching that movie and the action of that.”
Influence on Modern Action Films
John Wick’s success sparked a new wave of action movies that embraced a more grounded, gritty style. The franchise’s influence can be seen in other films where stars take on physically demanding roles and perform their own stunts. While Stahelski continued to direct three more John Wick installments, Leitch branched out, working with actors like Charlize Theron in Atomic Blonde, Brad Pitt in Bullet Train, and Ryan Gosling in The Fall Guy. The future of the John Wick universe remains uncertain, especially after the mixed reception of the spinoff Ballerina, but its legacy is undeniable.
With so many imitators and new projects inspired by the franchise, it seems only a matter of time before Munn gets her shot at a leading role in a film that values authentic, hands-on action. Her enthusiasm for the genre and respect for the hard work behind the scenes make her a natural fit for the next evolution of action cinema.