Why Netflix Should Prioritize a ‘Kate’ Prequel Over Another ‘John Wick’ Expansion
The action movie landscape is littered with attempts to replicate the success of John Wick. While the recent Ballerina, a Wick spinoff, stumbled at the box office, a different, arguably more deserving candidate for a prequel series was largely overlooked: Netflix’s 2021 gem, Kate. The potential for a compelling, expandable universe within Kate’s world isn’t just present – it’s arguably greater than what remains for John Wick, offering a unique opportunity for streaming dominance in the action genre.
The Prequel Problem: Why Some Action Franchises Don’t Stick
The allure of prequels is obvious. Established fanbases, recognizable worlds, and the chance to fill in narrative gaps. But Ballerina’s underperformance highlights a crucial truth: a compelling world isn’t enough. Gunpowder Milkshake, with its vibrant visuals, and Nobody, with its mysterious protagonist, both attempted to capture the Wick vibe but ultimately fell flat. Why? Both lacked the subtle world-building and character depth that made John Wick resonate. They prioritized style over substance, leaving audiences feeling disconnected.
‘Kate’s’ Untapped Potential: A World Ripe for Exploration
Kate, starring Mary Elizabeth Winstead, sidestepped these pitfalls. The film delivers relentless action sequences alongside a quietly compelling narrative. It’s a streamlined story of a hitwoman on her final assignment, but that very finality is its strength. Unlike John Wick, which can perpetually reinvent itself, Kate’s story demands exploration of its past. We need to know how she became the lethal operative we meet in the film.
The Father Figure Dynamic: A Story with Emotional Weight
The most compelling avenue for a Kate prequel lies in her relationship with her handler, played by Woody Harrelson. The film hints at a complex, father-daughter dynamic destined for betrayal. A prequel series could meticulously unravel this relationship, exploring the initial mentorship, the gradual erosion of trust, and the events that ultimately lead to the heartbreak hinted at in the original film. This emotional core is something the John Wick universe, focused primarily on action and lore, often lacks.
A Code of Honor: Exploring Kate’s Moral Compass
Another fascinating element ripe for exploration is Kate’s reluctance to kill in front of children. This seemingly small detail suggests a deeply ingrained moral code. A prequel could delve into the origins of this code – what experiences shaped it, and what sacrifices has she made to uphold it? This internal conflict adds layers to her character, making her more than just a skilled assassin.
The “Villain of the Week” Potential & Streamlined Storytelling
Kate’s skillset lends itself perfectly to a serialized format. Imagine a “villain of the week” structure, with Kate taking on a diverse range of targets, each assignment revealing more about her past and the shadowy world she inhabits. This contrasts sharply with the increasingly complex and sprawling narrative of the later John Wick sequels, which sometimes felt overburdened by their own mythology. Kate’s streamlined approach allows for focused storytelling and character development.
Netflix & the Prequel Advantage
While Mary Elizabeth Winstead’s current role in Star Wars presents scheduling challenges, her involvement in a galaxy famous for its successful prequels could be a boon. The success of shows like Andor demonstrates the audience appetite for well-crafted prequels that deepen existing lore. Netflix, with its vast resources and global reach, is uniquely positioned to deliver a Kate prequel that rivals, and potentially surpasses, the John Wick spinoffs. See, for example, how Netflix has successfully expanded other action franchises like The Old Guard.
The action genre is hungry for fresh, compelling narratives. Kate offers a unique opportunity to deliver just that. It’s a world brimming with potential, a character with a rich backstory, and a narrative structure perfectly suited for a serialized format. Netflix should seize this opportunity before another studio does.
What kind of backstory would you like to see explored in a Kate prequel? Share your ideas in the comments below!
