Bucking the 90s Action Movie Mold: How Keanu Reeves Defied Studio Pressures to Redefine the Iconic Role

Summary

Speed script doctor Joss Whedon recalls how Keanu Reeves' character suggestions for Jack Traven broke away from action movie norms of the time.

Reeves immersed himself with actual SWAT officers to prepare for his role and proposed that his character adopt a more polite approach by addressing people as "Sir" and "Ma'am". He even recommended that his character refrain from using his firearm, although this idea was not accepted.

The blend of affability, charm, and physical presence in Reeves' performances enhances the lasting impact of many of his action roles, including the role of Traven, which serves as a remarkable illustration of his talents.

Keanu Reeves' iconic role in the movie Speed, released in 1994, challenged the norms of 90s action films, according to the movie's script doctor. In a recent interview on the 50 MPH podcast, Joss Whedon, who has been mostly out of the public eye due to misconduct allegations, disclosed that Reeves played a vital role in giving life to the character of Jack Traven. Reeves brought forth character suggestions that defied the conventional hero image typically seen in action movies of that era. See Whedon's comment below.

Reeves discussed his research with the SWAT team, noting their consistently polite behavior. He realized that their emphasis on defusing situations by addressing everyone as 'sir' or 'ma'am' was crucial in understanding his character. Instead of being a flashy hero, he portrayed the character as a lateral thinker who followed his instincts with an unconventional approach, which generally proved effective.

The significance of their courteous mannerisms stood out to Reeves, as the typical action movie heroes relied on bravado. This approach was the exact opposite. Reeves also acknowledged his character's reluctance to use a gun, but understood that the studio would not allow him to completely avoid it.

Keanu Reeves Is The Perfect Action Hero

Speed is a prime example of how Reeves excels at portraying characters that go against the norm. Traven, in particular, stands out as a memorable hero because Reeves infuses the role with his own unique energy, steering away from the aggressive and dominant action heroes that were popular during that time.

What sets Traven apart is Reeves' portrayal, which gives the character a softer and more likeable demeanor. Yet, along with his likability and charm, Reeves brings a remarkable physicality to his action-packed roles, evident in his impressive stunt work. This winning combination is also evident in films like The Matrix, where Reeves' character Neo starts off as somewhat goofy and endearing, only to transform into a skilled martial artist and weapons expert.

Reeves has recently carried this energy over to the John Wick franchise, where Wick exhibits a no-nonsense and stoic demeanor. However, one could argue that the franchise's success heavily relies on Reeves infusing the assassin character with a certain warmth and charm, despite his ruthless killings of numerous enemies. Speed remains one of Reeves' most beloved and iconic films, underscoring his significant contribution in elevating the character of Traven.