Ana de Armas Channels Wick's World: From 'Knock Knock' with Keanu Reeves to Action Stardom in 'Ballerina'

2025-06-05
Ana de Armas Channels Wick's World: From 'Knock Knock' with Keanu Reeves to Action Stardom in 'Ballerina'
The Associated Press

Ana de Armas is proving her versatility as an actress, seamlessly transitioning from a subtle erotic thriller to a high-octane action star. Fans might remember her earlier collaboration with Keanu Reeves in the 2015 film 'Knock Knock,' a stark contrast to her current role in 'Ballerina,' a spin-off from the 'John Wick' universe. This new role sees her wielding ice skates as deadly weapons, showcasing a thrilling and unexpected skillset.

From Romance to Ruthless Action

‘Knock Knock,’ directed by Collin Farrell, presented de Armas as a seemingly innocent young woman who seduces two men (Keanu Reeves and Alex Pettyfer). The film, an erotic thriller, offered a glimpse of de Armas’s talent, albeit in a dramatically different genre than her current project. Reeves, known for his iconic action roles in 'The Matrix' and 'John Wick' franchises, provided a valuable early experience for the Cuban-born actress. It marked a significant stepping stone in her career, building a foundation for the diverse roles she would later embrace.

'Ballerina': A Deadly Dance

Now, in 'Ballerina,' de Armas embodies a skilled assassin with a background in ballet. The film is set within the intricate world of the John Wick universe, promising a blend of stylish action, intricate choreography, and a compelling narrative. The trailer alone has generated considerable buzz, with audiences eager to see de Armas’s transformation into a lethal ballerina. The concept itself – a trained dancer utilizing her grace and precision as tools of destruction – is both innovative and visually captivating. The film is directed by Lenny Kravitz, known for his artistic vision, which adds another layer of anticipation to the project.

De Armas's Rising Star

Ana de Armas's career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. Following 'Knock Knock,' she steadily gained recognition with roles in films like 'Blade Runner 2049,' where she captivated audiences with her portrayal of Joi. Her breakthrough performance in 'Knives Out' solidified her status as a rising star, earning her critical acclaim and a wider fan base. Her subsequent roles in 'No Time to Die' and 'Blonde' further demonstrated her range and ability to embody complex characters.

Keanu Reeves' Endorsement

While details about Reeves' involvement in 'Ballerina' remain scarce, his early collaboration with de Armas undoubtedly played a role in shaping her career. His reputation as a dedicated and professional actor likely provided a positive learning experience for the young actress. The shared history between the two stars adds a layer of intrigue to de Armas’s current success.

'Ballerina' is shaping up to be a major cinematic event, and Ana de Armas’s performance is undoubtedly a key factor in its potential success. From the quiet suspense of 'Knock Knock' to the explosive action of 'Ballerina,' de Armas continues to redefine her image and establish herself as one of Hollywood’s most talented and captivating actresses. Audiences are eagerly awaiting the premiere to witness her stunning portrayal of a ballerina turned assassin, and to see how she continues to evolve her craft.

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