Mary Allen
Introduction: The Dog in John Wick 2
One of the most memorable aspects of the film John Wick 2 is the presence of a canine character. The dog, who becomes a loyal companion to the titular character John Wick, plays a significant role in the film’s plot and emotional impact. In this article, we will explore the breed of dog featured in the film, how it was cast and trained, its role in the story, and its impact on audiences.
The Breed of the Dog in John Wick 2
The dog in John Wick 2 is a Belgian Malinois, a breed known for its intelligence, loyalty, and athleticism. Malinois are often used as police and military working dogs, and are trained for tasks such as detecting explosives and apprehending suspects. This breed was chosen for the film because of its physical abilities and its reputation as a fiercely loyal companion. The dog in the film is played by a female Malinois named Asia.
How the Dog was Cast for John Wick 2
The filmmakers of John Wick 2 knew from the script that a dog would be a central character, and began searching for the perfect animal to play the part. Asia was selected from a group of potential canine actors because of her intelligence, obedience, and ability to perform the necessary tasks. The filmmakers also wanted a dog that had a strong bond with its owner, as this was essential to the story. Asia’s handler, Andrew Simpson, was cast as John Wick’s stunt double and worked closely with the dog throughout filming.
Training the Dog for John Wick 2
To prepare for her role, Asia underwent extensive training with Simpson and other trainers. She learned to perform a variety of tasks, including attacking on command, retrieving objects, and following specific paths. The filmmakers also wanted Asia to have a strong emotional connection with Keanu Reeves, who plays John Wick, so the actor spent time with the dog off-set to build a relationship. Asia’s training was essential to the success of the film, as her performance helped to create a realistic and emotionally engaging character.
The Role of the Dog in John Wick 2
The dog in John Wick 2 is a catalyst for the story, as her tragic death prompts John Wick to seek revenge against those responsible. The dog symbolizes John’s humanity and his connection to something pure and innocent in a world of violence and corruption. The dog’s loyalty and love for John also provide an emotional anchor for the audience, making her death all the more devastating.
The Relationship Between John and the Dog in John Wick 2
The relationship between John and the dog is a central theme of the film. John is a hardened killer who has lost everything, and the dog represents a chance for him to connect with something good. As John and the dog bond, we see a softer side of his character emerge, and his determination to protect her becomes a driving force in the story. The dog’s death is a turning point for John, as it pushes him to seek revenge and ultimately leads to the film’s climactic action scenes.
Filming with the Dog in John Wick 2
Filming with a dog can be challenging, but the filmmakers of John Wick 2 were committed to creating a realistic and engaging performance. Asia worked closely with her trainers and Reeves to ensure that every scene was executed to the best of her abilities. The filmmakers also used a variety of techniques to capture the dog’s performance, including using a camera strapped to Asia’s back to give viewers a dog’s-eye view of the action.
Behind the Scenes: The Dog in John Wick 2
Behind the scenes, the dog in John Wick 2 was a beloved member of the cast and crew. Asia’s trainer, Andrew Simpson, spoke fondly of the dog’s intelligence and personality, and many crew members formed strong bonds with her during filming. Reeves also formed a close relationship with Asia, and the two could often be seen playing together between takes.
The Impact of the Dog in John Wick 2
The dog in John Wick 2 has had a significant impact on audiences, who have praised the character’s emotional depth and realism. The dog’s death is one of the most heartbreaking moments in the film, and has been cited as a reason why many viewers were emotionally invested in the story. The dog’s performance has also been praised by critics, who have noted the animal’s intelligence and obedience in executing complex tasks.
The Legacy of the Dog in John Wick 2
The dog in John Wick 2 has become an iconic character in the film’s franchise, with many fans citing her as one of the most memorable aspects of the films. The dog has inspired fan art, merchandise, and even tattoos, and has helped to define the emotional core of the series. The character’s legacy has also inspired other filmmakers to include dogs in their films as important and complex characters.
Fan Reactions to the Dog in John Wick 2
Fans of John Wick 2 have expressed strong emotions about the dog character, with many citing her as the reason why they became invested in the story. Social media has been filled with posts mourning the dog’s death, and many viewers have praised the filmmakers for their realistic and emotional portrayal of the character. The dog has become a symbol of the series’ themes of loyalty, love, and revenge.
Conclusion: The Importance of the Dog in John Wick 2
The dog in John Wick 2 is a complex and emotionally engaging character who has had a significant impact on audiences. The filmmakers’ commitment to creating a realistic and engaging performance, along with Asia’s intelligence and obedience, has helped to create a character that is both memorable and heartbreaking. The dog’s legacy has inspired other filmmakers and has become a symbol of the franchise’s themes. Overall, the dog in John Wick 2 is an essential part of the film’s emotional impact and has helped to define the series’ identity.