Chapter 4′ breaks franchise records in Russia with fulfilling releases amid boycotts

John Wick: Chapter 4 was released to unprecedented positive response from audiences and critics alike. The fourth part of Keanu Reeves-led franchise made a historic appearance at the box office and critics’ charts for an action thriller that led to a record-breaking domestic launch and was dubbed the the best action movie in the last ten years. Praise for the film’s action choreography and Reeves’ genuine acting work continues to draw praise, with director Chad Stahelski delivering on his promise to bring audiences a vastly new and unique Keanu adventure.

After such promising feedback from multiple areas, John Wick: Chapter 4 became a surprise hit in Russia. The film surpassed the third film in the franchise and earned $4.3 million on its debut in local theaters, which added to its total global opening of $137.5 million. Early last year, the American film industry pulled the plug on the Russian market after the country’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. As part of the sanctions against the country, major Hollywood studios refused to show their films there, beginning with Disney’s To redden and Warner Bros. The Batman.

Per meeting, the film has been given a theatrical release date in Russia due to previous deals, Lionsgate Motion Picture chairman Joe Drake told them. In his statement to meetinghe said,

“We had preliminary contracts. We had obligations to fulfill. As part of fulfilling these commitments, we conducted extensive investigations into the involvement of non-sanctioned parties. There were a number of steps we had to take. We felt comfortable delivering the film and consulted with talent.”

Lionsgate had sold the rights to a theatrical release in Russia before sanctions were imposed on the country. In the case of John Wick: Chapter 4, a Maltese company called Unicorn Media Limited, oversaw the release and marketing of the action sequel in that territory. The film was only released after Lionsgate worked with the US State Department to find out which companies are not sanctioned and could therefore go through the process. Lionsgate also paved the way for films like forced marriage, levelAnd Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre by other companies. However, it’s not clear if the studio has an agreement for its other prominent tentpole releases this year.

meeting went on to report that despite the sanctions, several pirated Hollywood films have made it into theaters there. These include such as Avatar: The Way of Water, which, even after a significant boycott, leads to a profitable market for theaters and screens in Russia. As sanctions continue to be imposed on Russia, it is unlikely that Lionsgate will finalize a new deal for the films due later this year.

John Wick: Chapter 4 is currently in theaters and has proven to be the biggest hit of the year. Hold 95% now Approval rating on Rotten Tomatoesit is considered the most successful action thriller for a long time.