Ana de Armas leads Ballerina John Wick spin-off as the much-anticipated film prepares for its cinematic debut on June 6, 2025, expanding the action-packed universe that began with John Wick. The movie, set during the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum, follows the story of Eve Macarro, portrayed by de Armas, as she seeks justice for her father’s death.
A New Chapter in the John Wick Universe
Following over a decade of success since the original John Wick film, the franchise continues to grow, this time with Ballerina arriving in theaters soon. After developing a loyal following through three high-earning sequels and a short-lived television spin-off, The Continental, the narrative now introduces a new perspective. This installment centers on Eve Macarro, a ballet dancer who steps into a dangerous world to avenge her father, fitting seamlessly into the timeline of the third John Wick movie.
Ana de Armas Steps Into the Spotlight
Leading the cast, Ana de Armas has been majorly involved in promoting Ballerina, which has already garnered significant attention ahead of its release. Born in Cuba, de Armas has spent recent years building an impressive filmography with parts in major productions like Blade Runner 2049, Knives Out, No Time to Die, and Blonde. While she initially gained recognition for her striking looks, her performance in Ballerina positions her as a formidable action lead, highlighting her versatility and commitment.
Training, Press, and Returning Collaborations
The transformation from dramatic roles to action hero has been a major talking point during de Armas’s media appearances. She recently discussed her experience filming intense fight scenes with Keanu Reeves, an actor she previously worked alongside in the 2015 thriller Knock Knock. That earlier performance launched her career; today, she shares the spotlight again with Reeves, who is synonymous with the John Wick franchise that has captivated audiences worldwide.
Connecting With Fans Ahead of Release
De Armas’s engagement with audiences extended beyond traditional interviews. She recently participated in a Reddit AMA for Lionsgate, openly responding to fans’ questions about everything from her physical preparation to her personal journey into action films. When asked about a dream role in the action genre, her response resonated with followers:
“If I could be in an old action movie, Kill Bill. It’s classic, not old,”
—Ana de Armas, Actor
This choice underscored the lasting influence of Quentin Tarantino, Uma Thurman, and the enduring legacy of female-led action cinema. Kill Bill, known for revitalizing the idea of a woman dominating the action genre, set a precedent that films like Ballerina build upon today.
The Influence of Female Action Leads and What Lies Ahead
The anticipation surrounding Ballerina speaks to a broader interest in stories where women take center stage in high-stakes action. Drawing inspiration from classics like Kill Bill, and echoing old-school Hong Kong cinema and legendary revenge tales such as Lady Snowblood, this new John Wick spin-off aims to both honor and advance the tradition. With directors like Quentin Tarantino currently developing their own much-awaited projects, and stars like de Armas proving their ability to lead intense stories, the action landscape continues to evolve.
As June 6, 2025, approaches, moviegoers can expect to see the world of John Wick further expanded, with Ana de Armas at the helm, reaffirming the franchise’s push for fresh faces and compelling narratives in modern action cinema.
