Keanu Reeves reveals the official title for John Wick 3 is John Wick: Parabellum. The actor first portrayed the character in the eponymous 2014 film, which was successful enough critically and commercially to spawn a franchise. Last year's John Wick: Chapter 2 was en even bigger hit (earning $171.5 million worldwide) and ended with a rather tantalizing cliffhanger, meaning a third installment was in order. Production on what has been called Chapter 3 started back in May, well ahead of its premiere next summer.

Also in May, the film's working title changed from Alpha Cop to Parabellum, which is the Latin word for "prepare for war." As it turns out, director Chad Stahelski and company liked the name so much, they decided to let it stick. John Wick 3's official subtitle will be Parabellum.

Reeves discussed the title in an interview with ComingSoon, giving the outlet more context behind its meaning:

Prepare for war. It’s part of that famous sentence, “Si vis pacem, para bellum,” which translates as, “If you want peace, prepare for war."


All things considered, this is actually a fitting title for the trilogy's closing installment. Fans may recall at the end of Chapter 2, John was excommunicado from The Continental and had to go on the run for his own safety. Judging by where things left off, Parabellum is essentially going to be "John Wick vs. the world," as the former hitman wards off everyone who wants to earn the $14 million bounty on his head. Presumably, this could be the end of the road for Mr. Wick, as the phrase Reeves references alludes to John's pursuit of finding a peaceful existence. Perhaps he can finally put his former life behind him and ride off into the sunset, dog by his side. After all John's been through in these movies, that would certainly make for a cathartic conclusion.

Of course, even someone as skilled as John Wick is going to need some help. During his interview, Reeves touched on John's relationship with new character Sofia (Halle Berry), who might have "some information from him." The two have a shared history, so it'll be interesting to watch their dynamic unfold as the film plays out. Berry is no stranger to action roles herself, meaning she could get her hands dirty as the battle against the High Table heats up. Hopefully, whatever Stahelski has planned lives up to the bar set by the first two, cementing John Wick as one of the best modern action movie franchises.

John Wick: Chapter 3 (2019) release date: May 17, 2019