Keanu Reeveshas been one of Hollywood’s biggest stars for decades now, with his filmography including incredible action movies, some of which changed the game forever. From his unforgettable role asNeo inThe Matrixto his legendary run in theJohn Wickfranchise, Reeves has delivered performances that redefined the action genre. Keanu Reeves is known for being incredibly dedicated to his roles, and it is no different for his action-orientated characters.
Ranking Reeves’ best action movies is thus no easy feat, as his repertoire boasts a lineup that any star would envy. From high-risk stunts to perfectly timed headshots, his performances are the stuff of legend, making it no surprise that a couple of his action titles are considered to be some ofthe best movies of all time. Whether his characters are excelling in martial arts, riding motorcycles, or dropping great lines, Reeves’ career is a masterclass in staying true to oneself while still delivering blockbuster magic.
47 Ronin
Cast
Based on a true story set in 18th-century Japan, 47 Ronin is a fantasy-action film that takes an extreme fantasy approach to the tale. A half-Japanese, half-English man named Kai is saved by a kindly ruler, only to be soon betrayed by those in his own hold. Kai and several other samurai are branded traitors for their loyalty to him. Seeking revenge, the 47 ronin band together, facing men and monsters alike.
While it received a disappointing 16% on the Tomatometer, reflecting largely negative critical reception,47 Ronin’sterrible Rotten Tomatoes scoreisn’t even close to being Keanu Reeves’ worst on the platform. The plot is based on a Japanese legend of 47 ronins (masterless samurais), who joined forces to avenge the death of their lord. Reeves plays Kai, a half-Japanese, half-English outcast whom the group reaches out to for help.
47 Roninended up with a hefty $175 million budget, largely because of extensive re-shoots and a prolonged post-production phase. Keanu Reeves had to film additional scenes numerous times, mostly because the studio wanted more of him in the movie.
While47 Roninis an ambitious film that blends action, fantasy, and historical drama, it also struggles in key areas. Its weak plot, somewhat underdeveloped characters, and uneven direction ultimately prevented it from reaching its full potential and achieving the balance needed to make it truly memorable. Notably, it may very well still appeal to fans of fantasy-action films and those interested in samurai culture, but the 2013 title isn’t one of Reeves' strongest action films.
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.
InChain Reaction, Keanu Reeves is Eddie Kasalivich, a young scientist who gets caught in a high-stakes conspiracy after his groundbreaking work on clean energy is sabotaged. The star brings his signature charm to the role, making Eddie a relatable and likable hero, even with the outrageous action sequences featured throughout.
Despite being a great blend of thriller and action,Chain Reactionis ultimately the product of its time. The plot quickly falls into a predictable formula, the villains are kind of unconvincing, and one can see the twists from a mile away. While it’s undoubtedly still an enjoyable watch for action fans, it simply doesn’t rise to the level of Reeves’ more notable action work, such asSpeedorJohn Wick. So, even though it has a cult following,Chain Reactionremains a more niche entry in the actor’s filmography.
Street Kings
Street Kings is a gritty crime thriller that delves into the moral complexities of the Los Angeles Police Department. It follows a veteran detective as he navigates a web of corruption and betrayal while trying to clear his name. The film explores themes of loyalty, redemption, and justice amidst a backdrop of intense action and suspense.
Fans of Denzel Washington’sTraining Daywill undoubtedly appreciateStreet Kings,the Keanu Reeves and Chris Evans’ underrated crime drama, as the perfect follow-up story. However, those who haven’t seen the former have nothing to worry about, asStreet Kingscomes with its own moments.
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Stepping into one of his rare bad-guy roles, Reeves masterfully plays Tom Ludlow, a tough, corrupt LAPD cop struggling with personal demons. The movie offers edge-of-your-seat thrills, gritty action, and a stellar cast. Notably, despite some serious action-heavy moments,Street Kingshas a slightly more cerebral edge compared to typical shoot-‘em-up movies. However, while serving as proof of Reeves’ acting range, the corrupt cop narrative is well-trodden. In the end,Street Kingsstruggled to break free from the genre limitations it set on itself, making it fall short compared to Reeves’ other movies and other crime dramas in general.
John Wick: Chapter 4
Following the events of Chapter 3 - Parabellum, John Wick Chapter 4 will see the titular character battle against some of his most dangerous foes yet. With a bounty on his head that continues to skyrocket, John decides to take the fight to the High Table on a global scale and battles across areas like Osaka and Paris to wipe out some of the strongest players in the underworld.
John Wick 4is considered by many to be the best in the franchise, which is not what many fourth installments of a movie franchise can say. The 2023 movie scored an impressive 95% on the Tomatometer, standing out as one of the actor’s best movies ever. However, with several other action films starring Reeves that hold cult classic status or are simply instantly associated with his career, this one doesn’t quite belong among the actor’s very best projects.
Nevertheless,Chapter 4raises the bar for action, featuring breathtaking set pieces and creative combat sequences any high-intensity fan will rejoice over. Thanks to its visual grandeur,John Wick 4is more of a visceral cinematic experience than a mere action spectacle some may have expected. It is truly a fitting, explosive chapter in the saga of one of cinema’s most iconic assassins.
Constantine
Constantine follows John Constantine, a chain-smoking occult detective who has journeyed to Hell and back. Released in 2005, the film pairs him with a policewoman to investigate her twin sister’s mysterious suicide, taking them into a hidden world of demons and angels in modern Los Angeles.
Constantinestands out as a unique action-horror film, with Keanu Reeves delivering a memorable performance as a tormented antihero, John Constantine. While it did not receive the best reviews at the time of its release,thanks to its stylish take on the subgenre, it remains a fan favorite, as well as a standout in Reeves’ repertoire.
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The arguably underrated 2005 title seamlessly combines action-packed sequences with the dark supernatural, which is what sets it apart from typical action films. The character of Constantine was adapted from DC’sHellblazercomics but was criticized by some fans of the source material for not being authentic enough. However, for anyone else in the mood for intense scenes of demon-slaying and hellish landscapes,Constantineis still a must-watchand has aged incredibly well, especially compared to other superhero films.
Point Break
Point Break is a 1991 action film in which Keanu Reeves stars as an FBI agent going undercover to investigate a group of elusive bank robbers known as The Ex-Presidents.
Starring Keanu Reeves and the late Patrick Swayze,Point Breakis a classic action movie well worth watching. The story follows an FBI agent, Johnny Utah (Reeves), who is tasked with investigating a series of unusual bank heists. As he sets out to nail the culprits, he gets enchanted with Bodhi (Swayze), a surfer who might be behind it all.
Point Break’spremise combined high-stakes crime with the world of extreme sports like surfing and skydiving, which is still a fresh take on the action genre. The adrenaline-pumping sequences, set against stunning natural backgrounds, give the film a unique energy and visual flair that separate it from most of its kind. Sure, it has its flaws, butPoint Breakis still a wild ride that’s bound to entertain. Additionally, it has one ofSwayze’s greatest movie fight scenes of all time.
John Wick
John Wick is a 2014 action thriller featuring Keanu Reeves as a retired hitman. The film follows John Wick as he emerges from retirement to avenge the loss inflicted by a group of gangsters, setting the stage for a relentless pursuit and exploration of a shadowy underworld.
Keanu Reeves completely transforms into the now legendary character of John Wick, a retired hitman seeking vengeance after the death of his dog, a final gift from his late wife. His emotional drive fuels theJohn Wickstory, all while delivering some of the most impressive fight sequences of Reeves’ career.
“John Wickexcels, unapologetically, at what it seeks to be: a fun, pulpy, violent B-movie action romp, built upon a cool mythology within a compelling Noir world.” -Screen Rant’sJohn Wickreview
The first installment of what is now a billion-dollar movie series lifted gun-fu to new heights, popularizing the subgenre of martial arts movies like few have done before.Wick’s stylish quest for vengeance ultimately becomes a cathartic experience for both the character and the audience, showcasing what might be, according to many, the pinnacle of modern action cinema. Notably, a decade later and four movies in,noJohn Wickscene has ever beaten the Baba Yaga momentfrom the first film, and that alone speaks volumes about its quality.
Man of Tai Chi
Man of Tai Chi is a martial arts film directed by Keanu Reeves in his directorial debut. It stars Tiger Hu Chen as a skilled Tai Chi practitioner who is lured into an underground fight club. As he ascends through the ranks, he grapples with the moral implications and the potential corruption of his traditional values while combating ruthless opponents. Reeves also stars as the enigmatic organizer of the fight club.
Man of Tai Chimight not be the highest-rated action movie in Keanu Reeves’ portfolio, but it definitely deserves a spot near the top, if only for how it honors martial arts tradition. Not only does Reeves star in the movie, but it also marks his directorial debut, which itself makes it very special in Keanu Reeves' career. It’s a love letter to the genre and a prelude to what Reeves would show inJohn Wick.
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Unlike many action films that focus solely on brute force,Man of Tai Chidigs into the philosophy of martial arts, with Tai Chi at its core. To top it off, Reeves takes on the role of the villain, giving fans a refreshing change of pace. Meanwhile, Tiger Chen, an actual martial artist, delivers action with precision and brings authenticity to the story. Reeves had a personal connection to the material, which is whyMan of Tai Chiis one of those grossly underrated2013 movies that really deserves a second look.
Speed
In Jan de Bont’s 1994 action thriller Speed, LAPD officer Jack Traven (Keanu Reeves) works alongside passenger Annie (Sandra Bullock) to safely stop a bus that will explode if it goes below 50 mph.
When one thinks of Keanu Reeves' action movies,Speedis probably one of the first titles that comes to mind. This adrenaline-pumping thriller put him on the map as an action star, and it’s easy to see why it’s still a fan favorite. Despite its at times formulaic premise,Speedoffers incredible pacing, great action scenes, and brilliant performances from Reeves and Sandra Bullock, who make for the perfect duo.
Notably, Reeves’ action classic was not aiming for realism, but, in a world where action movies sometimes forget about the thrills that come with simplicity,Speedis a reminder that sometimes less really is more. It doesn’t need to be utterly convincing; it just needs to keep the excitement rolling, and this one absolutely does, even decades after it first hit the screens.
The Matrix
The Matrix, released in 1999, is set in the 22nd century and follows a computer hacker, Neo, portrayed by Keanu Reeves. He joins a group of underground insurgents led by Morpheus to combat the domineering computers that control the earth, in a battle that blurs the lines between reality and illusion.
The Matrixwill always be the ultimate movie of Keanu Reeves' career. As one of the best movies ever made, the mind-bending sci-fi action flick didn’t just change the game, but it rewrote the rulebook for action movies. Ultimately,The Matrixisn’t just a movie. It’s a cultural phenomenon that still serves as the blueprint for action and sci-fi films year after year.
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From the iconic bullet-dodging scene, a visual feat that’s been copied countless times since, to the"I know Kung Fu"moment, the fight scenes inThe Matrixwere groundbreaking for their time. Each character in the film has etched their place in pop culture, whether it’s Laurence Fishburne as Morpheus, Carrie-Anne Moss as Trinity, or Hugo Weaving as the menacing Agent Smith. And of course,Keanu Reeveswas born to play Neo. While the sequels weren’t as great,The Matrixremains a masterpiece movie everybody needs to watch at least once.
