The Continental is a thrilling prequel series set in the iconic John Wick universe, exploring the origins of the world-famous hotel that serves as a sanctuary for assassins.
Produced by Peacock, The Continental dives deep into the dark, gritty, and action-packed world that fans of John Wick have come to love.
This article provides a comprehensive look at the plot, filming locations, cast, and director details for The Continental, giving viewers an in-depth preview of what to expect from this highly anticipated series.
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| Based on | John Wick by Derek Kolstad |
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| Opening theme | “Hard Times” by Baby Huey & the Babysitters |
| Composer | Raffertie |
| Country of origin | United States |
| Original language | English |
| No. of episodes | 3 |
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| Production location | Hungary |
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| Running time | 79–97 minutes |
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| Network | Peacock |
| Release | September 22 – October 6, 2023 |
Plot Summary of The Continental
Set in the 1970s, The Continental follows a young Winston Scott as he navigates the criminal underworld of New York City and gradually rises to power within The Continental hotel, a neutral ground for assassins, mercenaries, and underworld figures. The series explores the origins of this sanctuary and how it became a pivotal institution for the criminal elite, bound by a strict code of conduct and rules that ensure safety and neutrality.
The story delves into Winston’s struggle to claim control over The Continental and establishes the intricate codes, rules, and allegiances that define the John Wick universe. Fans can expect the series to capture the same high-stakes action, moral ambiguity, and shadowy intrigue that made the John Wick films so popular, all while adding new layers to the mythos.
Where Was The Continental Filmed?
The Continental was primarily filmed in Budapest, Hungary. Known for its architectural beauty and versatility, Budapest provides an ideal backdrop for recreating the gritty and atmospheric streets of 1970s New York City. The production team transformed parts of Budapest to capture the dark, intense, and immersive look that’s essential for the series. With Budapest’s historic architecture and versatile cityscapes, the filming location perfectly complements the vintage, noir-inspired style of The Continental.
Director and Production Team
The show’s directing team includes Albert Hughes, known for his work on Menace II Society and The Book of Eli. Hughes directed two of the three episodes of The Continental, bringing his gritty, stylized vision to the series. His directorial style, marked by intense visuals and a focus on character-driven stories, is ideal for exploring the morally complex world of The Continental.
The series was developed by Greg Coolidge, Kirk Ward, and Shawn Simmons, who bring experience from action-driven and character-centric productions. Together, they create a nuanced backstory that aligns with the rich, violent atmosphere of the John Wick universe.
Cast and Characters
The Continental features a talented cast that brings new depth to familiar characters while introducing new faces that add to the series’ intricate web of alliances and rivalries:
- Colin Woodell as Young Winston Scott: Portraying the ambitious and cunning future manager of The Continental, Woodell’s Winston is determined to rise in the criminal underworld despite the risks.
- Mel Gibson as Cormac: A ruthless character who serves as Winston’s adversary, Cormac is a key figure in the series, adding intensity and conflict to Winston’s journey.
- Ayomide Adegun as Young Charon: The character that fans recognize as Winston’s trusted confidant in the John Wick films, Charon’s origin story is explored in The Continental.
- Hubert Point-Du Jour as Miles: A close ally of Winston who helps him navigate the challenges of the underworld.
- Jessica Allain as Lou: A character with ties to the underworld, Lou’s resourcefulness and strength make her a significant ally.
- Mishel Prada as KD: A dedicated law enforcement officer with her own agenda, bringing a new dimension to the moral complexities of the Continental world.
- Ben Robson as Frankie: Another key character who plays a role in Winston’s rise to power.
The cast brings a fresh perspective to the John Wick franchise, with characters that embody both loyalty and betrayal, trust and treachery — all essential elements to the Continental world.
Themes and Influence of The Continental
The Continental explores themes of power, loyalty, and survival, delving into the morally ambiguous world where violence is currency, and every decision has consequences. The show takes viewers through the origins of the hotel’s codes and the rise of the institution that would later become central to John Wick’s story. Fans of the John Wick franchise will enjoy seeing familiar concepts and alliances come to life in a new light, along with new storylines that build on the saga’s legacy.
Conclusion
The Continental offers a deeper look into the John Wick universe, expanding on the lore and backstory of the iconic assassin’s hotel. With a compelling plot, high-caliber cast, and a dark, immersive atmosphere, the series is poised to become a must-watch for fans of action, mystery, and intrigue. Set in the gritty 1970s underworld and directed by seasoned filmmakers, The Continental promises to deliver a thrilling and complex experience, enriching the beloved John Wick universe.
