
So what do John Wick and the New Zealand Government’s Protective Security Requirements (PSR) have in common? ICARAS Security Consultants explores a few lessons from the underworld.
The John Wick franchise has enthralled audiences with its balletic gun-fu, unflinching intensity, and intricate lore of a hidden assassin world governed by codes, gold coins, and unbreakable rules.
Beneath the relentless action sequences lies a surprisingly rich canvas for examining physical security risk management. The films portray layered defences, controlled environments, vigilant personnel, and rapid crisis responses in a high-stakes underworld.
While dramatised for cinematic effect, these elements offer thoughtful parallels to real-world protective practices, particularly those encouraged by New Zealand’s Protective Security Requirements (PSR).
“Few elements in the John Wick series are as iconic as the Continental Hotel’s strict neutrality and layered access protocols.”
The PSR promotes a disciplined, risk-based approach to safeguarding people, assets, and information. It emphasises understanding…


















