Keanu Reeves at 60: Celebrating the Nicest Man in Hollywood with His Top 20 Films
From playing good cop to bad cop, and even stepping into the shoes of Shakespearean villains, Keanu Reeves has conquered a dazzling array of roles over his illustrious career. To honor the milestone birthday of this beloved Hollywood icon, Anne Billson revisits and ranks his 20 finest performances. Here’s a look at the cinematic journey of a man who has transcended genres and won hearts worldwide.
20. Little Buddha (1993)
In Bernardo Bertolucci’s visually stunning drama, Reeves takes on the role of Siddhartha with surprising ease, sporting kohl-lined eyes and long hair. Despite the film’s shortcomings, his calm presence and inventive use of a cobra as an umbrella remain unforgettable.
19. Much Ado About Nothing (1993)
Often criticized for his performance as the scheming Don John, Reeves nonetheless stands out in Kenneth Branagh’s Shakespearean romcom. Whether shirtless in a massage scene or strutting in leather trousers, he exudes a magnetic charm.
18. Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992)
Reeves’ turn as Jonathan Harker in Francis Ford Coppola’s gothic masterpiece drew mixed reviews, especially for his English accent. Still, his performance remains compelling in a film full of over-the-top moments, including Gary Oldman’s theatrical Dracula.
17. My Own Private Idaho (1991)
In this groundbreaking queer cinema landmark, Reeves plays a privileged rich kid opposite River Phoenix. The film is hauntingly poetic, even if its Shakespearean dialogue occasionally feels forced.
16. Something’s Gotta Give (2003)
Reeves charms as a dashing doctor who complicates Diane Keaton’s love triangle with Jack Nicholson. His presence adds warmth and credibility to Nancy Meyers’ romantic dramedy.
15. Street Kings (2008)
Reeves goes gritty as a morally conflicted cop caught in a web of corruption. Though the film loses momentum, his brooding performance anchors the intense narrative.
14. The Devil’s Advocate (1997)
Paired with Al Pacino in this supernatural thriller, Reeves plays an ambitious lawyer navigating moral dilemmas. As Pacino’s devilish antics steal the show, Reeves provides a grounded counterbalance.
13. Destination Wedding (2018)
This sharp-tongued anti-romcom reunites Reeves with Winona Ryder as two misanthropes bickering their way through a wedding weekend. Their witty dialogue and undeniable chemistry shine.
12. Constantine (2005)
Despite fan backlash over his casting as the titular occult detective, Reeves delivers a compelling performance in a visually arresting battle between good and evil.
11. The Gift (2000)
Reeves surprises as a menacing husband in this southern gothic thriller. Cate Blanchett may lead, but his chilling turn leaves a lasting impression.
10. A Scanner Darkly (2006)
In this mind-bending, rotoscoped adaptation of Philip K. Dick’s novel, Reeves embodies paranoia and existential dread as an undercover agent spying on himself.
9. Johnny Mnemonic (1995)
Dismissed at the time, this cyberpunk gem has aged well, thanks to its imaginative world-building and Reeves’ unforgettable “room service” rant.
8. Man of Tai Chi (2013)
Reeves’ directorial debut sees him as a villain in an old-school martial arts epic. With philosophy and action in equal measure, it’s a passion project that impresses.
7. River’s Edge (1986)
In his first major role, Reeves portrays a conflicted teenager in this stark teen drama. His nuanced performance holds its own against Dennis Hopper’s eccentric turn.
6. Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey (1991)
Reeves and Alex Winter elevate this sequel into a cult classic, playing dead and outwitting Death in a whimsical journey through hell and back.
5. Point Break (1991)
Reeves shines as Johnny Utah, an undercover FBI agent infiltrating a gang of surfer-bank robbers. Kathryn Bigelow’s adrenaline-fueled direction and Reeves’ earnest performance make this an action classic.
4. John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023)
With its breathtaking action sequences and emotional depth, the latest John Wick installment cements Reeves’ status as a tireless action star.
3. The Matrix (1999)
As Neo, Reeves redefined the action genre, blending vulnerability with badassery. The groundbreaking effects and choreography make this a landmark film.
2. Speed (1994)
Reeves’ turn as the heroic Jack Traven in this high-stakes thriller showcases his ability to combine action with heart. Sandra Bullock’s chemistry with him adds to the film’s enduring appeal.
1. John Wick (2014)
This revenge thriller reintroduced Reeves as an unstoppable force. With impeccable choreography, emotional resonance, and a world of intriguing characters, John Wick remains his crowning achievement.
Keanu Reeves’ journey from surfer dude to action icon is a testament to his versatility, dedication, and enduring appeal. As he celebrates 60, his filmography stands as proof that he’s not just one of Hollywood’s nicest guys but also one of its most memorable stars.