Keanu Reeveshas been acting since the 1980s, and has given the world great performances in the realm of action, adventure, drama, and even comedy. It’s rare for someone whose most prolific catchphrase is “Whoah” to be able to show so much emotional depth in a wide range of roles. Reeves is known not to take himself too seriously while still being able to take on very serious roles.
The 1990s were a very rich decade forKeanu Reeves' best films, which saw him star in action-packedblockbusters likeSpeed, emotional indie films likeMy Own Private Idaho, and ensemble pieces likeBram Stoker’s Dracula. His star was on the rise throughout that tumultuous time of growth, and he’s been an unwavering part of pop culture ever since. While Reeves has a very stoic approach to acting, with some criticizing his limited range, it’s that brooding calmness that makes him so appealing to so many.His eclectic choice of roles shows just how adaptable he can be, and how many stories he chooses to help tell.
Me and Will
Cast
Me and Will follows two women who meet in rehab and bond over a shared dream of riding Captain America’s chopper from Easy Rider. Escaping the clinic, they embark on a road trip to find the iconic motorcycle, exploring freedom and friendship on their journey.
This under-the-radar indie film centers on two women who wish to have their ownEasy Riderexperience as they leave a rehab facility. As they travel the open road, they go through a series of self-destructive adventures as they still grapple with internal struggles and a whole host of personal demons.
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Written, directed by, and starring Melissa Behr and Sherrie Rose, it’s a personal project for the two women. The movie co-stars Patrick Dempsey and features Keanu Reeves as a performer with his band, Dogstar. It’s a fitting tribute to the 1969 classic with Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper, withstrong performances by the two female leads, but very light on Reeves himself.
Providence
Providence is a 1991 American/Canadian film directed by David Mackay, starring Keanu Reeves. It follows a disenchanted high school student who secretly attends Brown University, posing as a college student. He navigates challenges with students and faculty, but faces risks that could endanger his academic future.
This relatively unknown film from Keanu Reeves' early career sees an intelligent high school student sneaking into Brown University and masquerading as one of the students. As he learns more about life and stepping into adulthood, his love of education and learning is awakened in a very real way. It’s a rare gem in the superstar actor’s filmography andshows the leading man credentials he would grow into very soon. Definitely one of the Reeves fans.
Tune in Tomorrow…
Tune in Tomorrow… is a romantic comedy film set in 1950s New Orleans, centering around Martin, who works at a radio station, and his relationship with his aunt Julia. The plot unfolds as a new scriptwriter, Pedro Carmichael, creatively incorporates their romance into the station’s drama series.
With a slightly controversial premise, this quirky comedy has been subsequently renamedAunt Julia and the Scriptwriter, after the Mario Vargas Llosa novel it’s based on. This title, incidentally, gives away more of the plot than the original one does. Peter Falk plays a scriptwriter for a radio soap opera, and is inspired by a scandalous affair happening right under his nose.
Keanu Reeves' character is a young law studentwho begins a rather debatable romance with his aunt Julia (Barbara Hershey). As the story becomes more outlandish, the laughs keep coming. It’s a charming film that fits firmly in the “screwball comedy” genre, with a solid performance from Reeves and the rest of the cast.
Chain Reaction
Chain Reaction: Released in 1996, Chain Reaction is a thriller directed by Andrew Davis. The film follows two researchers, played by Keanu Reeves and Rachel Weisz, who find themselves on the run after being framed for murder and treason in relation to a green energy project.
With a rather complicated plot and lofty premise, thissci-fi action filmhas a lot of promise but can be a bit hard to follow at times. The strong cast includes Morgan Freeman, Rachel Weisz, and Brian Cox, who do their utmost to carry the story.Reeves plays Eddie Kasalivich, who works with a group of scientists on developing clean energy.
A very ahead-of-its-time idea, the movie then leans more into the mystery aspects, as a shady organization with ties to the fossil fuel agency gets involved to protect their cash cow. With a hefty dose of intrigue and some great high-octane action scenes, the film is a pleasantly enjoyable ride.
Reeves had already proved himself as a skilled lead, and his ability to mix relatability, charm, and strength in his characters is evident.
Reeves had already proved himself as a skilled lead, and his ability to mix relatability, charm, and strength in his characters is evident. With some sizzling chemistry with co-star, Weisz,Chain Reactionisone of those entertaining ’90s blockbustersthat might not change someone’s life in any major way, but will keep its audience captivated throughout its 1h 47 min run.
14The Last Time I Committed Suicide (1997)
Directed By Stephen Kay
Set in the 1940s, the film explores the life of Neal Cassady, one of the more prominent figures of the Beat Generation. Exploring this tumultuous time in history offers a glimpse into a bleak and uncertain time that impacted people in different ways.Thomas Jane plays the lead rolewith Keanu Reeves supporting as his best friend, Harry.
The film wasn’t a big production, or an uproarious success, but it touches upon many universal subjects, like depression and the feeling of being lost. While Cassady struggles in his highly chaotic relationship with troubled girlfriend, Joan (Claire Forlani), Harry leads a more wild and charismatic existence, embracing the hedonistic lifestyle of post-war America.
Keanu Reeves delivers a magnetic performanceas a sort of poster child for the Beatniks. With a very atmospheric setting and plenty of introspective moments,The Last Time I Committed Suicidewas a well-thought-through addition to Reeves' acting resume.
Little Buddha
Little Buddha is a film directed by Bernardo Bertolucci, following Tibetan Buddhist monks as they search for the reincarnation of Lama Dorje. Their quest leads them to an American child and two Nepalese children, exploring themes of spirituality and cultural intersection.
Visually beautiful, which is to be expected in a film by Bernardo Bertolucci,Little Buddhaexplores themes of spirituality and purpose.Reeves plays Siddhartha, a prince who is set to become the famed spiritual leader. While he gives a lot to the performance, the lack of the relevant cultural characteristics required for the role feels rather jarring, especially nowadays. That aside, the juxtaposition of a modern story spliced with the historical flashback scenes is an interesting way to bring the viewer in.
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The movie received quite a lot of backlash at the time, but the glimpses of great storytelling make it one that’s worth a watch. Bridget Fonda and Chris Isaak are both assets in their respective supporting roles. An impressive array of costumes and set designs add layers of beauty to the dreamy shots, and the motives of faith and duty give the audience something to contemplate.
Even Cowgirls Get the Blues
Even Cowgirls Get the Blues follows Sissy Hankshaw, a hitchhiker with oversized thumbs, who becomes an advertising model. Sent by her agent, the Countess, to a Californian ranch for a commercial shoot, she befriends cowgirl Bonanza Jellybean amidst the setting of mating whooping cranes. Released in 1994.
Uma Thurman stars in this very quirky story based on the Tom Robbins novel of the same name. A woman with overly large thumbs embarks on a journey of self-discovery as she hitchhikes across America.The film wasn’t received particularly well, but has since become a bit of a cult classic. Keanu Reeves has a small role in the film, as he interacts with Thurman’s character on a romantic level.
Like many of the film’s plotlines, his is slightly underdeveloped, and it fades into the chaos of the outlandish story. But, the film is a snapshot of a very specific time in film making, and a very interesting part of Reeves, Thurman and Van Sant’s filmographies. It’s one for movie buffs who will either resonate with the beautiful mess, or enjoy casting their discerning eye on its imperfections.
A Walk in the Clouds
A Walk in the Clouds is a romantic drama featuring Keanu Reeves as World War II veteran Paul Sutton. Upon returning home, he encounters a pregnant and unwed woman who convinces him to pretend to be her husband to help her face her conservative family in California’s wine country.
Full of romance and pathos,this post-war-time drama sees Keanu Reeves showcase his softer side. As Paul Sutton tries to reconnect with his wife, and find himself after his experiences of World War II, he comes across a woman in need (Aitana Sánchez-Gijón). As she struggles with an unplanned pregnancy out of wedlock, Paul agrees to pose as her partner, in front of her strict father (Anthony Quinn).
With many beautiful shots in the vineyards of Mexico, and a very watchable dynamic between Reeves and Quinn, it’s the romance at the heart of it that really resonates with audiences. Those drawn to swooping love stories with many obstacles and repercussions will find a lot to love here.Not one of Reeves' biggest films, it’s certainly one of the most romantic.
The Devil’s Advocate
The Devil’s Advocate, released in 1997, follows aspiring Florida defense lawyer Kevin Lomax as he joins a New York law firm. As his career progresses, Lomax discovers sinister intentions behind his employer’s legal empire, with higher stakes in every case he handles.
One ofKeanu Reeves' many forays into horror, this psychological thriller sees Al Pacino play the actual Devil. As he manipulates the young and idealistic Kevin Lomax (Reeves) into losing more and more of his moral compass, there is a mix of supernatural imagery and some legal drama that offers a very interesting viewing experience. With themes of the dangers of ambition, and the price one has to pay for success, this movie has found a core audience since the years it’s been released.
With Al Pacino delivering a powerful performance,Reeves holds his own with many tense scenes between the two stars. Charlize Theron plays Lomax’s wife who endures harrowing visions related to her husband’s new boss. There is a good balance of drama and action, and the film holds a respectable score of 63% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Feeling Minnesota
Feeling Minnesota is a romantic crime drama featuring Sam Clayton and former stripper Freddie, forced into marriage by club owner Red. Complications arise when Freddie and Sam’s brother, Jjaks, fall in love and attempt to flee, drawing pursuit from Sam and Red, culminating in escalating tensions.
In the wake of the success of movies likePulp FictionandFargo, there wasa thirst for dark comedieswith an off-beat feel. Some films were able to achieve this more than others, andFeeling Minnesotaoffers a valiant attempt. The cast was stellar, with Reeves joined by Cameron Diaz, Vincent D’Onofrio, Dan Aykroyd, and Courtney Love, allbringingthe best of the ’90s. The writing teeters the line between comedic and hard-hitting, and the story is structured in a typically chaotic way.
With a doomed romance, and a lot of familial drama, there are some highlights in this quirky film. While not the commercial or critical success it was trying to be, the film has built a solid base of fans who appreciate this particular genre.Reeves gets to utilize his specific brand of charm with a hint of carelessness, that is synonymous with his more out-there roles.
