The Continental: From the World of John Wick 2023 is a thrilling prequel series that takes us back to the origins of the iconic hotel-for-assassins in the John Wick universe. Set in 1970s New York City, the series follows a young Winston Scott (Colin Woodell), who is dragged into the underworld of crime and violence by his estranged brother Frankie (Ben Robson). Winston must face his past and forge his future as he becomes the proprietor of the Continental, a safe haven for killers and mercenaries.
The series is created by Greg Coolidge, Kirk Ward and Shawn Simmons, who also serve as showrunners and writers. Albert Hughes and Charlotte Brändström direct the three episodes, each lasting about 80 minutes. The series is produced by Lionsgate Television and Thunder Road Pictures, with Chad Stahelski, David Leitch and Derek Kolstad, the creators of the John Wick films, as executive producers.
The Continental: From the World of John Wick 2023 is a must-watch for fans of the John Wick franchise, as it expands the lore and mythology of the world. The series explores the history and rules of the Continental, the mysterious organization that governs the assassins, and the characters that inhabit it. We get to see familiar faces such as Charon (Ayomide Adegun), the concierge, The Adjudicator (Katie McGrath), the enforcer, and Cormac O’Connor (Mel Gibson), the ruthless boss of the New York branch. We also meet new characters such as KD (Mishel Prada), a detective who investigates the murders linked to the hotel, Miles (Hubert Point-Du Jour), Winston’s loyal friend and partner, and Yen (Nhung Kate), Frankie’s wife and Winston’s love interest.
The series is full of action, suspense and drama, as it depicts the brutal and bloody conflicts between rival gangs, corrupt cops and ruthless assassins. The series also incorporates elements of alternate history, such as the Winter of Discontent, a period of social unrest and economic crisis in Britain in 1978-79, and the rise of the American Mafia in New York City. The series also pays homage to classic crime films such as The Godfather, Goodfellas and The French Connection.
The series boasts a stellar cast that delivers excellent performances. Colin Woodell is impressive as Winston Scott, portraying his transformation from a reluctant outsider to a confident leader. He shows his charisma, intelligence and courage, as well as his vulnerability and guilt. Ben Robson is convincing as Frankie Scott, Winston’s older brother who is driven by ambition, greed and revenge. He shows his charm, charisma and loyalty, as well as his arrogance, cruelty and recklessness. Mel Gibson is menacing as Cormac O’Connor, the sadistic and powerful gangster who runs the Continental. He shows his authority, cunning and ruthlessness, as well as his humor, charisma and mentorship.
The series also features stunning cinematography by Pål Ulvik Rokseth, who captures the gritty and stylish atmosphere of 1970s New York City. The series also features a captivating score by Raffertie, who mixes electronic beats with orchestral melodies to create a tense and immersive soundtrack.
The Continental: From the World of John Wick 2023 is a brilliant prequel series that enriches and enhances the John Wick universe. It offers a thrilling and captivating story that explores the origins of the Continental hotel and its characters. It also delivers spectacular action scenes that showcase the skills and style of the assassins. It is a series that will satisfy both fans and newcomers alike.
You can watch The Continental: From the World of John Wick 2023 on Peacock in the United States or on Amazon Prime Video internationally. You can also watch the official trailer or a clip from the series on IMDB.
