In the realm of modern action heroes, Keanu Reeves' John Wick has cemented his status as an iconic figure. Throughout the four movies in the franchise, Wick has endured countless stabbings, shootings, and beatings, yet he always manages to persevere. This unstoppable assassin has captivated audiences worldwide. However, could another creation of John Wick writer Derek Kolstad topple Wick's reign? The answer might surprise you.
Recently, Kolstad himself addressed this question during an interview with THR. And his response was unexpected: 'It'd never get to a fight. They would show up, look each other in the eye and say, 'Let's go get a beer.'' Instead of resorting to violence, it turns out Wick and Hutch Mansell, portrayed by Bob Odenkirk in the film 'Nobody,' would find a common ground and opt for a friendly drink. While this revelation may disappoint those yearning for an epic showdown, the notion of these two formidable characters teaming up against a shared enemy is undoubtedly a concept that action movie fans would relish.
The John Wick saga began in 2014 and has since become one of the most beloved action franchises in history. Although John Wick: Chapter 4 potentially marks the conclusion of the main series, talk of a fifth installment is already circulating within the industry. Directed by Chad Stahelski, the fourth film boasted a new writing team of Shay Hatten and Michael Finch, departing from Kolstad's original trilogy. Nevertheless, John Wick: Chapter 4 received widespread acclaim, further solidifying its place in cinematic history.
On the other hand, 'Nobody' introduces us to Bob Odenkirk's Hutch Mansell, a seemingly docile family man who unveils his true character after a burglary incident involving two petty thieves. This unfortunate event propels him into a vengeful war with a Russian crime boss. Odenkirk himself acknowledges the unique appeal of his character, stating, 'A lot of action movies feature exceptionally attractive and physically imposing protagonists, making it hard for the audience to believe they are in danger. I don't have that problem. Audiences genuinely see me and go, 'Oh, jeez, this guy is screwed. He's going to get his ass handed to him.'' Hutch's lack of imposing physicality necessitates his victories to stem from tenacity and cleverness, offering a refreshing take on the action hero archetype.
'Nobody,' directed by Ilya Naishuller and penned by Derek Kolstad, presents Bob Odenkirk in the role of Hutch Mansell, a seemingly unremarkable man whose encounter with two burglars ignites an inner rage. This unleashes a brutal chain of events, unearthing dark secrets and showcasing Hutch's lethal skills. The film resonated so strongly with audiences that a sequel is currently in development. Producer David Leitch has confirmed that the script is being worked on, and actress Connie Nielsen recently confirmed the inevitable arrival of 'Nobody 2.'
In addition to their respective roles in the John Wick and Nobody franchises, Bob Odenkirk and Derek Kolstad are collaborating once again on an upcoming action film titled 'Normal.' Odenkirk will portray Ulysses, an unlikely man of action who becomes aware of a pervasive criminal conspiracy within the town of Normal. As he investigates further, Ulysses discovers that the entire community, from the bartender to the priest, is entangled in the web of corruption.
As fans eagerly anticipate future adventures with John Wick and Hutch Mansell, it's clear that these characters have left an indelible mark on the genre. Whether it's the relentless determination of John Wick or the unexpected resilience of Hutch Mansell, their unique qualities continue to captivate audiences and redefine what it means to be an action hero in the modern era.
