For die-hard fans yearning for another taste of the “John Wick” universe, “The Continental: From the World of John Wick” might provide a satisfying fix. This three-part prequel event series, available on Peacock, offers a glimpse into the world that surrounds the legendary assassin. However, before you dive in, it’s essential to adjust your expectations. While it carries the “John Wick” DNA, it lacks Keanu Reeves’ presence and the same grand genre ambitions that made the movie franchise iconic.
Co-created by Greg Coolidge, Shawn Simmons, and Kirk Ward, “The Continental” embarks on the challenging task of expanding upon the “John Wick: Chapter 4” storyline by delving into complex themes of family and loyalty. It introduces a host of characters, though none quite as captivating as Keanu Reeves’ enigmatic protagonist.
The series primarily caters to fans intrigued by the enigmatic Winston Scott, portrayed by Ian McShane. It explores Winston’s past and reveals what led him to become the owner of the illustrious Continental Hotel. However, rather than a straightforward narrative, “The Continental” transforms into a character-driven drama. It centers around two estranged brothers, the refined Winston (Colin Woodell) and his hot-headed veteran sibling, Frankie (Ben Robson). These two are on a collision course with their father figure, Cormac (Mel Gibson), who molded them into the violent men they’ve become.
Cormac, the overseer of the New York assassin haven known as the Continental, is supported by the stoic Charon (Ayomide Adegun). When Frankie steals Cormac’s prized coin-press in a daring heist, he unwittingly becomes Cormac’s prime target. In the aftermath of Cormac’s initial retaliation, Winston decides to take over the Continental from him.
To execute this audacious plan, Winston recruits Frankie’s war comrades, Miles (Hubert Point-Du Jour) and Lemmy (Adam Shapiro), who run a dojo and a concealed arsenal in Chinatown. They are joined by Miles’ sister, the resilient Lou (Jessica Allain). The team also receives crucial assistance from Yen (Nhung Kate), Frankie’s wife, whom he met during his time as a soldier in Vietnam, under harrowing circumstances. Meanwhile, Cormac’s henchmen relentlessly pursue Winston’s crew. Simultaneously, the series introduces an additional narrative thread involving a cop named KD (Mishel Prada), who finds herself intrigued by the Continental but remains unaware of the enigmatic world within.
Directed by Albert Hughes and Charlotte Brandstrom, the three episodes of the mini-series are inspired by ’70s crime thrillers, creating a vividly immersive 1981 New York City setting, complete with the backdrop of a garbage strike. The characters are largely combat-worn veterans and immigrants seeking refuge in a perilous world, their war experiences shaping their lethal skills and unwavering loyalty. However, the juxtaposition of genuine violence with the franchise’s stylized, over-the-top action may feel somewhat discordant. “The Continental” endeavors to tell a more “serious” tale within the “John Wick” universe, yet it might not offer the same level of exhilaration and escapism that fans of the franchise have come to expect.
In conclusion, “The Continental: From the World of John Wick” is a distinct addition to the “John Wick” universe, offering a deeper dive into its lore and characters. While it may not match the cinematic intensity of the movies, it provides a different flavor and an opportunity to explore the origins of the enigmatic Winston Scott. For fans seeking just a bit more “John Wick” in their lives, this series delivers, albeit in a more grounded and character-driven fashion.
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