The Continental is set to spin off the John Wick franchise in big ways. The franchise has come a long way since it debuted in 2014. John Wick reinvigorated the career of star Keanu Reeves. The film's plot involved Reeves’ hit man, the titular John Wick, being unceremoniously forced out of retirement by the reckless act of a gangster’s son. The film was a modest hit financially, grossing $43 million at the domestic box office, along with another 43 million dollars worldwide. A return to the basic plot conventions of a lean and mean revenge thriller combined with excellent camera work and stunt coordination struck a nerve with audiences. Word of mouth propelled John Wick to many must-see lists in 2014.