The John Wick documentary ‘Wick is Pain’ exposes the studio note that almost killed the action franchise

Wick is Pain is a documentary film about the making of the John Wick franchise. Jeffrey Doe has directed the film while Matthew Sidle, Josh Oreck, and Gabriel Roth are the producers. It had its world premiere at the Beyond Fest and was released digitally on May 9, 2025. Here's the official synopsis:

"Witness the never-before-seen footage and story behind the John Wick phenomenon, starring Keanu Reeves - from independent film to billion-dollar franchise."

The film goes all out in revealing several details about the franchise, including how a studio note almost killed it. It's well known how the brand started as an indie idea and became a blockbuster franchise.

Wick Is Pain reveals how the studio almost butchered the John Wick franchise

Wick Is Pain showcases several interviews of the franchise cast and crew, including Keanu Reeves, who talk about its making. We also see much behind-the-scenes footage that was captured over the years. Chad Stahelski, who directed the first film in the franchise, along with Reeves, spoke about how they received a studio note about how Iosef Tarasov (Alfie Allen) was k*lled.

In the film, Wick walks up to him and shoots him dead. Stahelski said the note mentioned, “we have to find out that his wife was poisoned by the bad guys.” This was done to provide another justification for the killing. Wick's wife Helen, had died due to natural causes and had no connection to his going on a killing spree. He was by her side when she passed away. Before her demise, she hands over a puppy to him. The mafia kills the dog, and that starts the real story.

If the makers had gone with the studio note, the franchise would have derailed with its narrative. Wick Is Pain features interviews of Reeves, Stahelski, David Leitch, Tiger Chen, Basil Iwanyk, and Derek Kolstad, among others.

The franchise began with the first film, which was released in 2014. Starring Reeves as the titular hitman, the film met with positive critical response and grossed around $86 million. Its success led to John Wick 2 (2017), John Wick Chapter 3 - Parabellum (2019), John Wick Chapter 4 (2023), as well as a spin-off called Ballerina (which will release on June 6, 2025). A fifth film in the franchise has been announced, and it's currently underway.

Do you feel the note would have been helpful?