The release of John Wick: Chapter 4 was highly anticipated following the success of the first three films in the franchise. Hailed as the best action movie of the year, what sets this chapter apart from the rest is its introduction of diverse and captivating characters. Stealing the show is genre-defying popstar Rina Sawayama who makes her feature acting debut as Akira Shimazu – a fierce leather-clad, bow and arrow-wielding fighter who reluctantly teams up with John Wick and her father, manager of the Osaka Continental, Koji Shimazu (Hiroyuki Sanada), to help fight off hitmen who are out to kill them.
Although new to acting, Rina Sawayama is no stranger to performing. The Japanese-born London-based singer, songwriter, producer and model has been donned a “musical chameleon”. Her innovative music blends pop, R&B, and electronic genres and her bold activism and unique sound have made her an influential role model, earning her a spot on The Guardian’s 18 for ’18 and Dazed’s 100 people shaping culture in 2017 lists. The iconic Lady Gaga has praised Sawayama as “an experimental pop visionary who refuses to play by the rules.”
Sawayama originally turned down her role, but Director Chad Stahelski saw that the singer’s background in music and performance proved to be the perfect fit for the high-octane action franchise.
He said in an interview: “Something about her look and something about her performances in her music videos was… she seemed right out of an anime, and Japanese anime is a big influence for this… We knew we had the right person.”
Sawayama’s stage presence and charisma translated seamlessly to the big screen and her experience in dance and choreography was valuable when she underwent extensive stunt training for the role, which included archery, sword fighting, and martial arts. Additionally, Sawayama’s unique style and personality brought a fresh perspective to the Wick-iverse and its rich tapestry of characters.
For fans who missed the opportunity to see Sawayama’s performance on the big screen, fans can now experience her breakout role in the comfort of their own homes with the home entertainment release of John Wick: Chapter 4.
John Wick: Chapter 4 is available now digitally and on Collector’s Edition, Steelbook, 4k Ultra HD, Blu-Ray and DVD.
