Anatomy Of A John Wick Fan Tribute
Image Source: Culture Slate
Fan tributes are the ultimate way to pay homage to all the forms of media that we know and love. Fan tributes can take many forms, the most popular being that of cosplay. But there are many times that tributes go beyond simple costumes into more complex photoshoots.
A little background- until recently, my boyfriend was part of an Airsoft team known as the High Rollers (they disbanded, mostly due to COVID). As a result, between them all, they have a wide selection of realistic Airsoft firearms. Occasionally, they like to take them out and show them off. This is usually done in specific settings, complete with classy outfits. The shoots are therefore called “Classy AF.”
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Who Participated?
This particular photoshoot- Classy AF vol. 3- involved many people, including me. There were four photographers, nine models/actors, and one very tolerant proprietor. Note: One of the actors, Zak, also doubled as a safety officer, ensuring that the weapons used were clear of ammunition and in safety mode.
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What Was It?
As the title of this article suggests, this photoshoot was a tribute to the John Wick series of movies, done in advance of the release of John Wick 4.
What Was Used?
As the title of the photoshoot suggests, we tried to keep everything classy. This ranged from the weapons to the outfits to the various props. These included a challenge coin won at FanExpo in Toronto last year, a selection of hats from the photographers, and tin cups acquired from a clearance sale at a cat café.
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Note: This shoot took place in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. The laws in Canada are different than in the United States; as a result, the Airsoft firearms we used were not required to have orange tips.
When Did This Take Place?
This photoshoot took place on the last Sunday of March the 26th, the only day most of us could make it.
Where Did This Photoshoot Take Place?
This photoshoot occurred at The Brass Monkey, an Ottawa basement watering hole offering billiards, darts, pub grub, and regular live music.
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How Did We Do It?
By working together. We assembled like a bunch of neo-noir gun-toting Avengers.
Why Did We Do It?
Why not? It was fun, it allowed the photographers to practice their craft, and it told a story.
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The Story
The Continental has fallen. Anyone who is left has retreated to the Brass Monkey, a dark watering hole that is the only remaining neutral ground left. Individuals from many different factions are using this bar as a safe space. We are co-existing peacefully, but tensions are high, and things are liable to fray at any moment. Those within the space include the following:
The Twins: A pair of gunslinging assassins who are double the danger, but quadruple the laundry bill:
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Sam: A cat-like assassin who sometimes likes to play with their prey:
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Ethan: He is his own kind of Baba Yaga, a sharp-dressed man with a sordid past:
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Michelle: Technically, an adjudicator, might have a thing for the twin in the red cowboy shirt; definitely sick of everyone’s crap:
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Laz: One of the only things keeping the peace together in this place is that everyone owes him a favour.
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As was stated, the peace in the place is holding, for now. But as the night goes on, tempers might flare, impulses might trip, and chaos may reign.
The whole thing took a lot of work, but it was a hell of an experience. I was able to step out of my shell and have a fun time while hanging out with my friends. If I ever get the chance, I will definitely do it again.
Sources: Personal experience. Special thanks goes to Laszlo Kovacs for creative assistance on the story.
Note: Yes, the one in the red shirt is actually my boyfriend.
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