David Castañeda Talks “Ballerina” and Expanding the John Wick Universe – Interview

David Castañeda reveals how Ballerina pushes the John Wick universe further.

David Castañeda, known for his breakout role as Diego in The Umbrella Academy, joins Ballerina’s ever-expanding John Wick universe, playing a surprising yet pivotal role that caught even some fans off guard. During our recent conversation, Castañeda opened up about stepping into this high-octane world, the intense stunt work, and the collaborative process behind bringing his character, Javier, to life.

A Surprise Role That Sets the Story in Motion

Castañeda admits that his appearance in Ballerina was meant to be a surprise for audiences. I told him, “I had that full Leonardo DiCaprio moment referring to his unannounced role. Playing Eve’s father, Javier, Castañeda’s character becomes the emotional catalyst that drives the film’s narrative. “It was kind of mind-blowing,” said Castañeda. “I was so shocked that I was going to play Eve’s father and sort of play part of the catalyst in the main character’s origin story.”

Preparation and Training With the Best

Joining a franchise known for its brutal, intricate fight choreography meant Castañeda had to fully commit to the role’s physical demands. “The stunt team was so pivotal for my immersion into this film,” he said. Filming in Budapest, he trained for four weeks prior to shooting to nail down Javier’s unique fighting style, which focuses on disarming and protecting rather than killing. “There was a massive thing about him not killing. It’s more about disarming and being able to do as much as you can to get away from things.”

Working With Len Wiseman’s Ballerina Vision

Director Len Wiseman, known for his action-packed visual style, brought a collaborative approach to the production. “Len was great. He was very collaborative in asking about how I felt about certain things,” Castañeda shared. This partnership allowed Javier’s character to reflect emotional depth and unique physicality, aligning perfectly with the film’s high-energy action scenes.

The John Wick Standard of Action and Safety

Safety was always top priority with Ballerina upholding the John Wick franchise’s reputation for intense action sequences. But that didn’t mean bumps and bruises didn’t happen. “There were moments where I passed by limping,” he laughed, adding that Chad Stahelski (who oversees the franchise’s stunt work) would catch him and joke, “Liar,” when he tried to downplay any minor injuries.

Castañeda was particularly impressed by the elaborate stunt choreography, including a standout fight sequence on an ice rink. He praised Ana de Armas and the stunt team for their seamless coordination, comparing their work to an “improv dance.”

Open to More in the Wick Universe

When asked if he’d return for a prequel or spin-off exploring Javier’s backstory, Castañeda enthusiastically responded, “Look, anything involving John Wick, I’m game. The mythology of it all is so exciting to me that I would always entertain the idea.”

Umbrella Academy and Future Aspirations

Reflecting on his long-standing role as Diego in The Umbrella Academy, Castañeda admitted he was surprised by how much audiences connected with the character’s mix of toughness and humor. Looking ahead, he shared that he seeks roles that push him emotionally and physically, saying, “Anything that delves into extreme anxiety and nerve-racking preparation—that’s my wheelhouse.”

Ballerina Expands the Franchise in Bold New Ways

Ballerina serves as a powerful expansion to the John Wick universe, with Ana de Armas leading the charge in a role filled with deadly elegance and raw emotion. Norman Reedus, Keanu Reeves, and Gabriel Byrne join the cast, alongside Castañeda’s memorable turn as Javier. Directed by Len Wiseman with franchise architect Chad Stahelski producing, the film delivers brutal choreography, stunning visuals, and rich mythology that continue to elevate the franchise.

Ballerina is now playing in theaters. Read our review here. Read more News on Nerdtropolis. Subscribe to our YouTube.