Mumbai: Ana de Armas, who made her English-language debut alongside Keanu Reeves in Knock Knock (2015), reunites with him nearly a decade later in the much-awaited John Wick spinoff Ballerina. The action-packed thriller is set to release in India on June 13, and early reactions are largely positive, with many praising the film’s stylish action and Ana’s commanding performance.
A Full-Circle Moment
For Ana de Armas, Ballerina represents a significant career milestone. In Knock Knock, she was still learning English, delivering lines phonetically. Now, in 2025, she leads a global action franchise opposite Keanu Reeves once again—this time as a fully formed action star.
Keanu, who has observed her career growth firsthand, spoke warmly about working with Ana again.
“She’s a wonderful actress, so talented. And that inner strength and motivation, being able to draw that up and to show that in the stillness of the scenes that we had together. She’s quite a presence,” Keanu said.
Director’s Praise
Ballerina director Len Wiseman also heaped praise on Ana’s dedication to the physically demanding role.
“She’s perfect for the role in many ways. What I love about this franchise is that it is more actor-based action, and so we see the actors doing more of their own performance and choreography. And she was game with that,” he said.
About the Film
Ballerina follows the story of a young, elite assassin—played by Ana—on a relentless mission for vengeance after her family is murdered. The film is set between the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum and John Wick: Chapter 4, expanding the universe while maintaining the high-octane, stylized action the franchise is known for.
Ana de Armas’s transformation from a newcomer reciting English lines phonetically to an Oscar-nominated actress (for her portrayal of Marilyn Monroe in Blonde) and now an international action lead is a testament to her relentless work ethic and star power.