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The Continental series proves wrong any skepticism that it wouldn't be as intense as the John Wick movies, with brutal kills and an intriguing new assassin named Yen. Unlike the homogenous assassins in the John Wick films, The Continental gives its killers more personality and backstory, making them more compelling and differentiated. Yen, a multifaceted killer, surpasses John Wick in her versatility and aggression, using her environment as an extension of her deadly arsenal. She could potentially defeat John in a fight.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the John Wick Universe has been the vast array of killers on display. Of course, many would point to Keanu Reeves' titular assassin as the best of the lot, but there are the likes of Donnie Yen's Caine to consider. Throw in Mr. Nobody with his guns and tracking dog; it's quite an eclectic bunch.

Come The Continental: From the World of John Wick,...

Exclusive: Peacock is touting the success of The Continental: From the World of John Wick.

The Lionsgate-produced series premiered its first episode on September 22, only to become Peacock’s biggest original launch of the year, meaning that the episode reached more accounts in its first weekend than any other original offering, according to NBCUniversal.

Following the release of the remaining two episodes, The Continental now ranks among the top five Peacock originals of all time in terms of reach, joining the ranks of Bel-Air, The Best Man: The Final Chapters, Poker Face, and Based on a True Story.

Based on the current top five, it appears Peacock is finding success with both existing IP as well as original concepts.

Of course, The Continental falls under the former, as it explores the origin behind the iconic hotel-for-assassins that is at the center of the John Wick universe. Though its already a billion-dollar franchise,...

The John Wick 3 ending introduces a stunning betrayal by Winston, the Manager of The Continental, setting the stage for John Wick: Chapter 4 and The Continental prequel series. John Wick survives his wounds and is taken in by The Bowery King, creating a new underground subplot and expanding the world of the franchise. John Wick: Chapter 4 focuses on a clash between class systems and revenge against The Continental and The High Table, while also setting up the Continental TV show.

The John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum ending includes a stunning betrayal and creates a cliffhanger and the John Wick 3 ending expertly sets up John Wick: Chapter 4 and The Continental. After killing Santino D’Antonio, John Wick has been declared “excommunicado,” meaning he’s officially been blacklisted by The Continental; a safe zone for assassins and other underworld figures. There’s a $14 million bounty on Wick’s life, and...

The Continental: From the World of John Wick delivers action sequences that surpass the films, with the best fight ever seen in the gory universe. The showdown between Yen and Gretel in The Continental is driven by emotion and revenge, showcasing the nuance and substance of their characters. The fight scene between Yen and Gretel in The Continental is innovative, with impressive choreography, lighting, and sound design, delivering a fresh and unpredictable culmination.

In the John Wick movies, there are many brutal fights that really stand out in the genre. Initially, the franchise began as a love letter to '90s shoot-'em-ups, but it evolved to incorporate many different martial arts styles. From John improvizing and using a pencil as a weapon, to Donnie Yen's Caine being a badass take on Daredevil, the property has indeed turned out amazing assassin brawls.

It left fans curious if The Continental...

Warning! Spoilers ahead for The Continental.

Director Albert Hughes reveals how the twist involving Mishel Prada's Kd in The Continental was set up from her first scene, with her scars foreshadowing the big reveal in the finale. Hughes also says that Kd is "low-key the protagonist" of the story, with her quest for revenge largely driving the narrative. The Continental received mixed reviews from critics, with the general sentiment being that it doesn't live up to the quality of the John Wick films.

The Continental director Albert Hughes explains how that big Kd twist was set up in her first appearance on-screen. Serving as a spinoff prequel to the John Wick movies, the new Peacock series chronicles a young Winston's (Colin Woodell) rise to power at the New York City Continental Hotel. The Continental cast includes a host of newcomers, including Mishel Prada as Kd, a cop who...

The Continental Season 2 could see a new war between Winston and the High Table, with Winston potentially facing off against the Nile group for stealing the coin press. Lou's story in Season 2 could focus on her rebuilding the dojo and exploring her father's connection to the sinister fraternity at the hotel while teaming up with Yen to change New York's landscape. Kd's redemption arc in Season 2 could involve her working with Lou to bring change to marginalized communities and fight against corruption in the Big Apple, establishing her legacy as a force for good.

The following contains spoilers for The Continental "Night 3: Theater of Pain," now streaming on Peacock.

Throughout Season 1 of The Continental: From the World of John Wick, fans were wondering if the Peacock series would bookend things. It's just three episodes, so it could have easily been a one-and-done. However, as Winston attacks the Continental and takes over,...

Warning: Spoilers ahead for The Continental episode 3!

The director of The Continental finale teases a potential story for Winston in season 2, exploring whether he becomes corrupt with power. The red bird that appears throughout the season is symbolic, hinting at Winston's journey and the consequences of wielding power. The director raises questions about whether Winston will learn from the mistakes of the previous Continental owner and use his power benevolently.

The Continental director Albert Hughes has explained a teaser in the show's finale that sets up a potential story for Winston in season 2. The John Wick prequel follows a young Winston in the 1970s as he focuses on taking down the original New York Continental owner, Cormac, after he killed Winston's brother. In the season finale, Winston is able to successfully take over the Continental, ending the season by shooting the Adjudicator just outside Continental grounds.

Speaking with GamesRadar, Hughes revealed that,...

Warning! This article contains spoilers for The Continental.

The Continental's 13th floor, a secret location only known to the manager, is revealed in The Continental, shedding new light on the hotel's inner workings. The hotel has a self-destruct function that only the manager and operations room director have access to, adding a layer of danger and intrigue to the story. Winston's early alliance with the Bowery, showcased in The Continental, shows that his connections and dealings go as far back as the 1970s, expanding the history of the John Wick franchise.

The Continental offered up plenty of interesting secrets about the titular hotel that were left absent from the John Wick films. The Continental's place on the John Wick timeline means it is set almost four decades before the Keanu Reeves-led films began. As such, the prequel delves much deeper into the world of John Wick and...

The Continental: From the World of John Wick has wrapped up its three-episode run, but a number of questions were left unanswered, which has fans wondering whether season 2 might be in the works. I haven’t had a chance to watch the series for myself yet, so to be safe, I’ll just say watch out for Spoilers.

Related The Continental producers didn’t know if John Wick spinoff would work without Keanu Reeves

While speaking with GamesRadar, The Continental director and executive producer Albert Hughes said that while he “hasn’t heard anything” about a potential season 2, he has been “daydreaming” about the next stage of the story. “I would like to see if [Winston] becomes what he hated,” Hughes explained. “Absolute power corrupts absolutely. The red bird landing on the ledge with Cormac in episode 1, to then appearing in the penthouse with Winston during the finale, that’s...

Warning: Major spoilers for The Continental: From the World of John Wick season 1 below!

The Continental: From the World of John Wick sets up a potential second season, but it's best if the miniseries is a one-off. The three-episode first season was riddled with uninvolving subplots and action that failed to live up to the movie franchise's high standards. A second season where Winston battles the High Table to retain control of the Continental is inherently uninteresting as audiences already know the outcome.

The Continental: From the World of John Wick sets up a potential second season, but it's best if the miniseries is a one-off. This Peacock prequel charts how young Winston Scott - played by Ian McShane in the movies - became the manager of the titular New York hotel. In light of John Wick: Chapter 4's ending where Keanu Reeves' unkillable assassin seemingly dies,...

Warning! This article contains spoilers for The Continental episode 3.

The ending of The Continental adequately explains the journey of Winston Scott, who solidifies his position as the manager of the hotel and establishes his alliance with the High Table. Charon's story in The Continental hints at his desire to bring his father from Nigeria to the United States, implying that Winston potentially helps reunite them before Charon becomes the hotel's concierge. The fates of Lou, Miles, and Yen are left ambiguous, but there are hints that Lou seeks revenge against the boss of the Chinese mafia; Lou and Miles may have a hidden role in setting up the hotel's gun-running organization, and Yen likely returns home to Vietnam after avenging Frankie's murder. Gene's story suggests he settles down with a woman he connects with in the show. Kd may be fired from the police force and could move away from New York.

Warning: This article contains spoilers for the series finale of The Continental!

The Continental series expands on the John Wick lore, making the films more intriguing and unique, while also introducing potential plot changes. The coin press is vital in maintaining order in the criminal underworld, as its coins dictate the rules and control the flow of commerce. The coin press could play a significant role in John Wick 5, potentially leading to the dismantling of the High Table and rebuilding the criminal underworld.

The Continental: From the World of John Wick has created a world-breaking concern for the rest of the John Wick movies. The prequel series follows a young Winston and Charon as they try to carve out a reputation for themselves in '70s New York, taking on a cutthroat kingpin in order to obtain control of The Continental hotel. At the center of the battle for...

Warning! This article contains spoilers for The Continental episode 3.

The Continental episode 3 is action-packed and filled with Easter eggs that connect it to the John Wick film series. The episode includes references to John Wick, such as Winston's monologue about suits and the police turning a blind eye to the Continental. There are also connections to the John Wick franchise, like the use of angel number 818 and the Latin word "Inimicus" on wanted posters.

The Continental episode 3 ends the John Wick prequel series off on an action-packed note filled with Easter eggs to the latter film series. The Continental episode 3 details the climactic battle the prequel has been building to between Cormac and Winston Scott for the state of the eponymous hotel belonging to the High Table. Following on from Winston's assembling of a team in The Continental episode 2, the streaming series ends with a suitably action-heavy installment to...

Warning! This article contains spoilers for The Continental episode 3.

The Continental provides important context for Winston Scott's character and his opposition to the High Table in the John Wick films. Winston's killing of the Adjudicator in The Continental foreshadows his defiance of the High Table in the John Wick movies. The twist killing of the Adjudicator in The Continental explains why Winston has remained in control of the hotel for over 40 years.

The Continental has provided an origin to both Winston Scott and the character's opposition to the High Table. The Continental's place in the John Wick timeline means that it has adequately explored earlier aspects of the latter movies. From how Winston became manager of the New York Continental to the alliance between Winston and the Bowery in the future, The Continental has provided the John Wick films with plenty of context.

The main way this...

The Continental: From the World of John Wick focuses more on substance than style, delving into Winston's history and his connection to family. The origins of the Soup Kitchen are drastically changed in The Continental, revealing that it was already an army led by Mazie, not created by the Bowery King. There is potential for the retcon to be worked into the movies, with the Bowery King potentially creating a deception for his image and mystique, adding to the franchise's lore and story.

The following contains spoilers for The Continental "Night 2: Loyalty to the Master," now streaming on Peacock.

When fans heard the John Wick Universe would be expanding with a prequel series, many were skeptical. The idea of dissecting characters such as Winston and Charon was enticing. But still, with John Wick 4 going on to wrap everyone's stories with the High Table, it did feel like...

The John Wick spinoff series The Continental explores the heartbreaking origin of fan-favorite character Charon. Charon's loyalty, altruism, and value for family are highlighted in the show, but his role as a hotel employee working for an oppressive leader challenges his principles. Charon's innocence and good nature ultimately lead to his downfall, as he becomes a victim of Cormac's manipulations.

The following contains spoilers for The Continental "Night 2: Loyalty to the Master," now streaming on Peacock.

In the John Wick Universe, it's hard to deny Charon's a fan-favorite character. He's the endearing concierge who helped Winston run the New York chapter of the Continental. This is why folks were excited to see The Continental: From the World of John Wick bring the younger Charon into play. With Winston waging war against the hotel decades prior, the interest was high in how they'd eventually partner up after being enemies.

This article contains spoilers for The Continental: From The World Of John Wick.

Fresh off this year’s John Wick: Chapter 4 comes the spinoff prequel television series The Continental: From the World of John Wick, developed for television by Greg Coolidge, Kirk Ward, and Shawn Simmons. Running for three feature-length episodes on Peacock, the series follows the adventures of Winston Scott (Colin Woodell), the future head of the eponymous New York hotel that serves as a safe haven to a shadowy order of global assassins. Set decades before the John Wick films, Winston finds himself on his vendetta as he is drawn deeper into the lethal world of assassins, taking on the Continental’s ‘70s proprietor Cormac O’Connor (Mel Gibson).

Filled with explosive gunfights and a quiet expansion of the John Wick shared cinematic universe, The Continental depicts a rise to power for Winston while proving him every inch as deadly as John Wick himself.

The Adjudicator's mask in The Continental hides a facial disfigurement, with her teeth openly visible due to burned-away skin. The Adjudicator's injuries might have been inflicted by the High Table, suggesting its ruthless nature. The Adjudicator's Hungarian mask design could hint at her possible connections to the Hungarian branch of The Continental or the High Table.

Warning! This article contains spoilers for The Continental.

The Continental's story featured the repeated appearance of the villain known as the Adjudicator, further raising the question of what is beneath the character's face mask. The Adjudicator appeared in The Continental episode 1 as an agent of the High Table tasked with finding the stolen coin press. This task was further detailed in The Continental episode 2 during a scene in which the Adjudicator confronted Cormac for his failure to locate the coin press stolen by Frankie.

Despite The Continental's Adjudicator having a John Wick connection, the...

Theresa Donovan, is that really you?

As clumsily spoiled in the Peacock soap opera’s closing credits earlier this week, Emily O’Brien (aka Gwen Rizczech von Leuschner) is indeed slapping on a blonde wig for her debut as Days of Our Lives‘ new Theresa — and you’ve got to see it to believe it:

More from TVLineThe Continental Director Spills Secrets Behind His Favorite Fight From Finale, Weighs In on Possible Season 2The Continental Finale Sneak Peek: Yen Clashes With a Bendy (and Unbreakable?) GretelTVLine Items: Demi Lovato Holiday Special, Lego Jurassic Park Trailer and More

The big reveal came...

Warning! This article contains spoilers for The Continental episode 3.

"The Continental" prequel series fails to confirm the popular theory that Winston is John Wick's father despite numerous connections between the characters. Fans were hoping for answers regarding Winston's origins and his relationship with John Wick, but "The Continental" provides little evidence to support or debunk the theory. The show also leaves unanswered the question of Winston's Ruska Roma tattoo origins, which could potentially further connect him to John Wick's past.

The Continental has offered plenty of context on the John Wick series given its status as a prequel to the films yet failed to confirm whether the biggest John Wick: Chapter 4 theory was true. The Continental centers on the character of Winston Scott who was portrayed by Ian McShane in the John Wick series. With The Continental's placement on John Wick's timeline, the series focuses on a...

Warning! This article contains spoilers for The Continental episode 3.

The Continental episode 3 provided answers to lingering questions and delivered on the action front, with Winston's siege of the hotel and twists in his origin story. Winston killed the Adjudicator to send a message to the High Table that he intends to retain control of the New York Continental, regardless of their approval. The whereabouts of the coin press were revealed in episode 3, hidden in the trunk of a car at Charlie's compound. Its power was showcased through creating coins that allowed an army to infiltrate The Continental.

The Continental's three-episode run has come to an end in an explosive finale, offering plenty of twists and turns that raise an equal number of questions. The Continental episode 3 depicts the climactic final set piece of the series that has been building since episode one: Winston's siege of the titular hotel.

The Continental is the 1970s set prequel to the John Wick films, exploring the origins of Winston and how he came to control one of the franchise's most fundamental locations. By turning back the clock, Peacock's series showcases a different view of the franchise that lands with a harsher, grittier crunch than the streamlined and stylish films. It's an interesting approach that pays tribute to the grimy cinema of the era in fun and clever ways.

During a round table discussion with members of the press -- including Cbr -- The Continental's Production Designer, Action Director, Costume Designer, and Sound Editor described the process of bringing the John Wick universe into the 1970s, working alongside Executive Producer/Director Albert Hughes on the feel of the show, and taking influence from films of the era to expand the world of the Continental in unexpected ways.

Related: The Continental: How...

"The Continental," a prequel to the John Wick series, primarily takes place in New York City, where the fictional hotel is located. Despite the story's singular location, the show's production took place across the globe, as did the John Wick films which were filmed in cities like Rome, Casablanca, and Osaka. The exterior shots of the Continental Hotel were filmed at the Beaver Building, while the interior scenes were shot at Delmonico's restaurant and the Cipriani 25 Broadway building in New York City. Additionally, Origo Studio in Budapest was used for the majority of filming on soundstages.

The Continental takes place predominantly in 1970s New York City, but where did the production of the series take place? The Continental is a prequel to the John Wick series centering on the titular establishment that was first introduced in 2014's John Wick. Given the title of the prequel, it makes sense that much...

Warning: Major spoilers for The Continental episode 2 "Loyalty to the Master" below!

The Continental episode 2 lacks the signature action sequences that are a staple of the John Wick franchise, making it feel lackluster and disappointing. The episode focuses more on assembling a team and introducing subplots but lacks urgency and excitement. Without John Wick at the center, the series loses some of its intrigue and mystery, and the protagonist Winston is more of a supporting player.

The Continental episode 2 is building towards the miniseries' big finale, but in doing so, forgot the one critical ingredient the franchise is built upon. Peacock's prequel gives viewers a more in-depth peek behind the curtain of the titular hotel for assassins. The Continental cast Colin Woodell as young Winston Scott, who seeks revenge against the hotel's manager Cormac (Mel Gibson) during the late '70s. The show is also notable for being the first...

Warning: Major spoilers for The Continental episode 2 "Loyalty to the Master" below!

The Continental episode 2 reveals that Cormac is the first character to break the hotel's no killing rule. Cormac's killing of the cellist puts him at risk of being excommunicado and vulnerable to reprisals from past enemies. The fact that Cormac isn't immediately punished for his killing changes the dynamics of John Wick 2's dark ending.

John Wick: Chapter 2's ending twist is completely changed by a key scene from The Continental episode 2. Peacock's prequel series is a different beast from the usual John Wick fare - as the titular, Keanu Reeves-shaped assassin is nowhere to be found in The Continental's three episodes. Following Wick's "death" in Chapter 4, the franchise is at an interesting crossroads. The Continental and upcoming movie spinoff Ballerina represent attempts to gauge interest in the franchise beyond Wick, though Reeves will...

Warning! This article contains spoilers for The Continental episode 2.

The Continental episode 2 hints at a possible change in the origin of a minor character from John Wick: Chapter 2, suggesting a retroactive alteration. The Continental provides development and retcons to the criminal underworld of the John Wick franchise, including the origins of various characters. Winston's promise to Lou and Miles in The Continental episode 2 suggests that they may have had control over the character known as The Sommelier in John Wick 2, potentially revealing a twist for their characters in the future.

The Continental episode 2 provides an intriguing hint that one minor character from John Wick: Chapter 2 could have their origin retroactively changed. The Continental is a prequel to the John Wick films and takes place in the 1970s. As such, The Continental is providing plenty of context to the world of John Wick before audiences became familiar with it in 2014's first film.

Warning: Major spoilers for The Continental Episode 2's "Loyalty to the Master" below!

The Continental episode 2 explores the hotel and its connection to the High Table, offering a deeper look into the John Wick franchise. The episode showcases the breaking of the inviolable rule of no killing on Continental grounds, indicating Cormac's disregard for the rules. The episode includes references to the original John Wick film, such as Cormac's church scene and the introduction of a sniper reminiscent of Marcus from the first movie.

Just like the first episode, The Continental episode 2 "Loyalty to the Master" contains plenty of nods to the John Wick franchise. The Continental cast Colin Woodell as young Winston Scott, who plans to mount a hostile takeover of the titular hotel during the late '70s after he and his brother are targeted by manager Cormac (Mel Gibson). The show is a big step for the franchise,...

Warning! This article contains spoilers for The Continental.

The Continental episode 2 changes the origin story of the Bowery King, retconning his claims from John Wick: Chapter 2. The Continental reveals that the Bowery King did not create the criminal empire known as the Bowery or The Soup Kitchen and that a character named Mazie was the organization's leader before him. The episode adds depth to Winston and the Bowery King's final scene in John Wick 4, showcasing their long history and alliance with each other.

The Continental episode 2 has changed the origin story of the Bowery King, six years after he was first introduced to the franchise. The Bowery King was introduced in John Wick: Chapter 2 played by Laurence Fishburne. Upon his debut, the Bowery King was shown as the leader of the criminal empire known as the Bowery or The Soup Kitchen.

The Bowery was an underground intelligence network...

The Continental episode 2 explains a plot hole in John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum regarding the presence of a vast arsenal of weapons in a hotel where no killing is allowed. The reason for the armory is that frequent patrons of The Continental are paranoid, and the armory puts their minds at ease while they are on the premises. The Continental's prequel series gives added depth to the John Wick universe by exploring the criminal underworld and providing context to major settings in the movies as is the case with the hotel's armory.

A plot hole from 2019's John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum, has been explained three years later by The Continental episode 2. Given its nature as a prequel to the John Wick movies, The Continental provides plenty of added depth and world-building to the universe established in the four movies starring Keanu Reeves. The primary way in...

Warning: Spoilers for The Continental episode 2

The Continental is a prequel to John Wick set in 1970s New York and delves into the origins of Winston Scott, who becomes the manager of the New York branch of The Continental Hotel. The second episode of the series is the emotional journey of Winston, where he undergoes a transformative moment due to the death of his brother. The episode also explores the meeting between Charon and Winston, establishing their iconic duo in the John Wick universe, while incorporating elements of the franchise's lore.

The Continental is a prequel to John Wick, set in 1970s New York. The three-part event explores the origins of Winston Scott, who will eventually become the manager of the New York branch of The Continental Hotel and an ally of John Wick. The series incorporates real-world events from this era while also delving deeper into the lore of the John Wick world.

Warning! This article contains Spoilers for The Continental episodes 1 & 2!

The Continental is a prequel show to the John Wick franchise, set in the 1970s, and follows the origin story of Winston and Charon. The series consists of only three episodes, with each episode having a runtime of about 90 minutes. The Continental's series finale will be released on Friday, October 6 on Peacock. After that, the franchise will continue with the release of Ballerina in 2024.

Swinging back into the world of John Wick, the prequel show The Continental still has more action to come after its first two episodes. The Peacock series marks the first entry in the John Wick franchise without Keanu Reeves’ titular assassin, instead taking the story back to the 1970s, with The Continental’s timeline being set about 35 years before John Wick. The Continental tells the origin story of the titular hotel’s New York City manager...

Warning! This article contains Spoilers for The Continental episode 2!

The Continental episode 2 includes a foreshadowing reference to John Wick, establishing how formidable his "Boogeyman" nickname is. The use of chicken feet to scare away the Boogeyman in The Continental demonstrates the level of fear and reputation that John Wick eventually achieves. The episode also hints at the origin of the Bowery King's title, introducing a character named Mazie who is known as the "Queenpin of the criminals."

The Continental episode 2 includes a reference to Keanu Reeves’ John Wick that helps underscore why he becomes the world’s most feared assassin. While the original John Wick movie picks up as the titular hitman returns to the criminal underworld after his retirement, the franchise emphasizes that the legendary “Baba Yaga,” aka The Boogeyman, is unmatched against other assassins. Despite the fact that he’s finally killed in John Wick: Chapter 4’s ending,...

Aren’t the John Wick movies great? Just wonderful. A killer we side with because, for five seconds, we saw his dog die. Because of that, we give him the grace to traverse the criminal underworld and murder 439 (we looked it up) people over the course of four films. The Continental: From the World of John Wick was given to us as a way of saying, “Hey Wick-lovers! A little lore for you.” and we all thought it was a lovely bit of fan service and applauded. What would we learn about the history of a place like the Continental?

It turns out that what they thought we wanted was aged-down versions of secondary characters a few years earlier. Unfortunately, it also turns out that it really wasn’t.

What We Got

Like any throwback series, we’re taking you all the way back to the swinging ‘70s. The world is a bit different.

The Continental spinoff has received negative reviews, emphasizing the importance of Keanu Reeves in the John Wick franchise. The critical failure of The Continental suggests that future spinoffs, including Ballerina, may face similar problems without Reeves. Despite doubts from the director and Reeves himself, the financial success of John Wick 4 and the potential survival of the character make John Wick 5 highly likely.

The John Wick spinoff The Continental has just been released on Peacock, but the action series only makes John Wick 5 more likely. The John Wick movie series seemingly came to an end with John Wick: Chapter 4, as Caine killed the deadly assassin in a duel in the movie's final act. The last scene sees Winston and The Bowery King and John's headstone, which reads, "Loving Husband." However, despite the death, there have still been talks about John Wick 5, even if not everyone is on the same page about the sequel,...

The Continental episode 1 successfully captures the look and tone of the John Wick series, but falls short in matching the exceptional action of John Wick: Chapter 4. The action sequence in The Continental is impressive in its own right but lacks the freshness and innovation found in the latest John Wick installment. John Wick: Chapter 4's incredible action sets a high standard that spin-offs like The Continental may struggle to surpass, creating a challenge for future films in the franchise like Ballerina.

While The Continental is an admirable attempt, John Wick: Chapter 4 may have set the bar too high for action movies. The Continental is a prequel to the John Wick film series set in the 1970s and exploring the titular establishment. Given that it takes place within the John Wick timeline, The Continental goes to great lengths to emulate the look, style, and tone of the four films starring Keanu Reeves as the now-iconic hitman.

Warning! This article contains spoilers for The Continental episode 1.

The Continental episode 1 references The Matrix and John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum, providing connections, Easter eggs, and links to the John Wick movies. Winston's line of "guns, lots of guns" in The Continental episode 1 connects to John Wick 3, and explains Winston's reaction to Wick uttering the same line years later. The "guns, lots of guns" reference in The Continental not only honors The Matrix but also serves as a reference within a reference to Keanu Reeves' exceptional action movie career.

Winston Scott's character in The Continental episode 1 makes a reference to The Matrix which simultaneously helps to explain a scene from John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum. The Continental is a prequel to the John Wick movies, primarily set in 1970s New York and centering on the exploits of the titular hotel. The Continental hotel chain was shown...

The Continental director Albert Hughes defends the casting of controversial actor Mel Gibson as the John Wick prequel series' main antagonist, praising his impact on the newly-released show.

During a sitdown with TV Insider, Hughes explained why Gibson is an essential contributor to the show and why he's a fitting actor to play Cormac, the ruthless owner of the titular New York hotel chain. According to Hughes, his uncanny way with words and stage presence made him the right person to portray Cormac.

Related: The Continental Director Shares Big Difference Between the Series and John Wick Movies

“What we all are familiar with from Lethal Weapon and all those other movies is those zingers that he has. Those aren’t in the script. That’s Mel," he said. "He starts playing with words. In Episode 3, he plays one word in particular that’s real touchy. If you read into it,...

In The Continental: From the World of John Wick, viewers learn that Winston wasn't always the knowledgeable and experienced manager he appears to be in the John Wick movies. Mel Gibson's character, Cormac, was the manager of The Continental before Winston and had a more aggressive and rule-breaking approach. The reveal that Cormac has no family and only Charon as a close companion adds a tragic dimension to Winston's fate, indicating that becoming the hotel manager means losing the people closest to you.

The Continental: From the World of John Wick is a John Wick prequel series that follows Winston as he takes over The Continental Hotel in New York, but that raises the question of who the previous manager was. The Peacock three-episode event is the first of a series of John Wick spinoffs, with the Ana de Armas movie Ballerina being released in 2024, and the show continues...

Warning! This article contains spoilers for The Continental episode 1.

The Continental is not as great as the John Wick movies, lacking their tightness and sleekness, but it still includes intriguing elements of the criminal underworld. Despite not matching the quality of the films, The Continental is a well-crafted TV show with stylish production value that captures the world of John Wick very well. The success of The Continental proves that the John Wick franchise can continue and thrive without Keanu Reeves, establishing a future for spin-offs and other stories in the franchise.

The Continental serves as a prequel to the John Wick film series, but is the spin-off as good as the original franchise that spawned it? The Continental is set over 40 years before the John Wick series and details the origin story of Winston Scott, Ian McShane's New York Continental manager from the John Wick films. Colin Woodell...

The Continental's mixed reviews reveal an unfair comparison to the blockbuster John Wick movies, which have larger budgets and different production constraints. The show explores complex character dynamics, especially the relationship between Winston and his estranged brother Frankie, adding depth to the John Wick universe. Despite budget limitations, The Continental replicates the gun-fu action sequences on a smaller scale and provides a immersive 1970s setting, with attention to detail in set and costume design.

The new John Wick spin-off The Continental has been slammed by critics, but the show is way better than reviews say. The Continental follows Winston in the 1970s as he takes over the titular hotel. The show embraces the '70s setting, introduces new characters into the assassins universe, and continues to build the ever-expanding John Wick world. Unfortunately, the series has suffered a critical scathing, as it currently sits at a "rotten" 50% on Rotten Tomatoes.

Warning: Major spoilers for The Continental episode 1 "Brothers In Arms - Night 1" below!

The Continental episode 1 reveals that the High Table, the ruling organization in the John Wick franchise, originated during the Roman Empire, making it over 2000 years old. The gold coin press stolen from The Continental's vault is believed to be irreplaceable and could potentially destroy the High Table if it falls into the wrong hands. The series explores new avenues beyond John Wick, which delves into young Winston's rise to power in 1970s New York and provides further insight into the High Table.

The High Table is the mysterious organization that rules the criminal underworld of the John Wick franchise, and The Continental episode 1 reveals something shocking about their origins. One of the elements that set the original John Wick apart from other action movies was the amount of world-building it featured, including the Continental Hotel itself.

Warning: Major spoilers for The Continental episode 1 "Brothers in Arms - Night 1" below!

The prequel series, The Continental, proves that the John Wick franchise can continue without Keanu Reeves as its lead. Episode 1 introduces a character named Frankie, who fills the void left by Wick's absence in terms of action and intensity. Frankie's death in the first episode sets up a revenge plot for Winston and shows that the franchise can create compelling new action heroes.

While John Wick 5 may or may not happen, his replacement in prequel series The Continental proves the franchise can continue if Keanu Reeves exits. Just like the Mission: Impossible movies have become almost inextricably tied to the persona of Tom Cruise, it's hard to picture the John Wick movies without Keanu Reeves. The original film is credited with rescuing the star from a career lull and was largely dependent on his cool persona and...

Warning! Spoilers ahead for The Continental episode 1.

The stairwell fight scene in The Continental's first episode was carefully planned and executed, with the team designing the action and creating tension and drama. Despite the limited time available for shooting, the crew had to be smart in how they designed the action sequence, knowing they may not have the chance to reshoot or revisit the location. The brutal action and intense fights in The Continental mirror the high quality seen in the John Wick franchise, and viewers can expect more of this in the remaining episodes.

Frankie's brutal stairwell fight in The Continental is broken down by stunt coordinator Larnell Stovall. The series, a prequel to John Wick, is set in the 1970s and explores how Winston Scott became involved in New York City's criminal underworld. Here, his younger counterpart is played by Colin Woodell, and the rest of...

Brian De Palma’s largely forgotten rock musical Phantom of the Paradise quickly disappeared from theaters, a near-universal flop, when it was released in 1974. Except, for some reason, in the Canadian city of Winnipeg, where it was a blockbuster and developed an intensely devoted following that continues to this day. The cult is the subject of a new documentary from Sundance alum director Malcolm Ingram (Small Town Gay Bar, Continental) that’s just gone into production. Ph…...

Lgbt festival to close with documentary Out To Win; Rocky Horror to screen at BFI Imax.

The full line-up of this year’s BFI Flare (March 19-29) has been unveiled in London this evening.

As previously announced, the 29th edition of the Lgbt film festival will open with Justin Kelly’s I Am Michael, starring James Franco and Zachary Quinto.

It was revealed this evening that the festival will close with the European premiere of documentary Out To Win on March 29.

Malcolm Ingram’s film examines of the lives and careers of aspiring and professional gay and lesbian athletes from all over the world, featuring contributions from Billie Jean King, Martina Navratilova, David Kopay and John Amaechi, among others.

It marks Ingram’s return to the festival having previously screened documentaries Small Town Gay Bar and Continental. Out To Win will world premiere at SXSW on March 15.

Gala screenings

The Accenture Gala will be the European Premiere...

The documentary Continental faces a tough challenge: Very little film footage or still photos exist for the legendary NYC bathhouse in its heyday. It's understandable -- this was not a place where many people wanted their pictures taken. But it means Continental has to drum up visual interest in other ways.

The movie takes us along on a breezy historical tour of the Continental Baths, one of the most well known and innovative bathhouses in New York in its prime. Steve Ostrow invested in the facility when it was a dark, dank warren of gay sex, and transformed it into a sophisticated gathering place and much cleaner, safer warren of gay sex. Eventually the Continental even drew a straight nightclub crowd for its concerts -- this is the place where Bette Midler launched her career.

Midler isn't one of the interview subjects -- she's represented only by still photos --...

Coming on the heels of some exceptionally strong Lgbt docs at both Sundance (Marta Cunningham's "Valentine Road" and Roger Ross Williams' "God Loves Uganda")  and Berlin (Sébastien Lifshitz's "Bambi" and Angela Christlieb's "Naked Opera"), SXSW continued what is clearly shaping up to become a banner year. In its previous two editions, SXSW was the theatrical birthplace of both Andrew Haigh's romantic drama "Weekend" and Jonathan Lisecki's gay man/straight girl romantic comedy "Gayby," establishing the festival as just as reliable a place to find quality queer narrative films as its two aforementioned predecessors.  But this year was all about non-fiction. Three documentaries -- Malcolm Ingram's "Continental," Jeffrey Schwarz's "I Am Divine" and Pj Raval's "Before You Know It" -- each premiered at the fest, and each will deservedly be a highlight at the scores of doc and Lgbt-focused festivals they'll surely...

As has been the case for several years now, Indiewire is the place to get to know the SXSW Film Festival filmmakers. Over the next week, we'll be posting the 2013 batch of filmmaker profiles. Indiewire invited directors with films in the the Competitions, Headliners, Spotlight, Visions and Midnighters sections to take part by submitting responses to a series of questions in their own words. Full List (click on name and title to view profile): #1. Zach Clark, "White Reindeer" #2. Malcolm Ingram, "Continental" #3. Travis Stevens, "Cheap Thrills" and "Big Ass Spider!" #4. Vincent Grashaw, "Coldwater" #5. Adam Rifkin, "Reality Show" #6. Zak Knutson and Joey Figueroa, "Milius" #7. Calvin Reeder, "The Rambler" #8. Christopher Smith and Merete Mueller, "Tiny House" #9. Louis Alvarez, Andrew Kolker, Peter Odabashian and Paul Stekler, "Getting Back to Abnormal" #10. John Sayles, "Go for Sisters" #11. Penny Lane, "Our Nixon" #12. Katie Graham...

Documentary filmmaker Malcolm Ingram, whose work has focused on issues facing the gay community, tells the historical story of the notorious 1970s New York City bathhouse that transcended sexuality in "Contintental." The film charts the pivotal role the Continental Bathhouse played in social tolerance and the creation of a safe haven for gay men at the time, as well as being a hub for the discovery of several legendary musicians. What it's about: "Continental" is the story of the infamous bathhouse in New York City that came to prominence in the 1970s that's known today mostly as the place where Bette Midler was discovered. It's is a stylish examination of a hedonistic clubhouse that opened pre-Stonewall and helped usher in a new age of sexual freedoms, social tolerance and creative energy. What else do you want audiences to know about your film? I would like audiences to realize, like I did while shooting this project,...