Exclusive Interview with Keanu Reeves: “There’s Always Someone Worse Off Than You”
Exclusive Interview with Keanu Reeves: “There’s Always Someone Worse Off Than You”
Renowned Canadian actor Keanu Reeves, best known for his roles in iconic film series such as “The Matrix” and “John Wick,” as well as movies like “Speed,” “Dracula,” and “The Devil’s Advocate,” shares his perspective on fame and life.
Celebrating Milestones
Keanu celebrated his 50th birthday at home with his sister, who baked him a chocolate cake. It’s safe to assume that his 55th birthday was celebrated just as modestly. The best gift for both him and his fans was the announcement of the fourth installment of the cult classic “The Matrix” series. This news thrilled fans who closely follow the life of their favorite actor.
Life’s Tragedies and Triumphs
Keanu’s life has seen its share of tragedies, including the stillbirth of his daughter in 1999 and the death of his partner, actress Jennifer Syme, in a car accident less than two years later. Despite these hardships, Keanu’s reclusive nature and private life do not indicate a man burdened by sorrow. In fact, he has been quoted as saying, “You need to be happy to live, but I don’t need to be.” Additionally, in 2011, he published a book titled “Ode to Happiness,” where he wrote captions for illustrations by a friend, one of which reads, “There’s always someone worse off than you.”
The Enigmatic Actor
Keanu is often compared to the tragic figure of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Despite the massive success of “Speed,” which catapulted both him and Sandra Bullock to stardom, Keanu surprisingly turned down the sequel to perform as Hamlet in a theater production in Winnipeg, Canada. Despite lacking formal acting education, Keanu not only drew attention to the theatrical production but also earned praise from professionals.
Early Life and Career
Keanu’s parents met in Beirut, where his English mother and Hawaiian father, who had served a prison sentence for drug dealing, were living. After their divorce, Keanu’s mother traveled the world with her two children before settling in Canada. Keanu changed schools frequently and appeared in commercials and TV series. He moved to Los Angeles in his twenties and lived in hotels until he bought a home in West Hollywood.
Passion for Motorcycles and Action Roles
Keanu has played numerous roles on the silver screen, often characterized by their taciturn nature. He is renowned for his martial arts skills, performing many of his own stunts. His passion for motorcycles led him to establish his own motorcycle company, Arch Motorcycle. This hobby also inspired the storyline for “John Wick,” written specifically for Keanu by former stuntmen Chad Stahelski and David Leitch.
The John Wick Phenomenon
The debut film was a financial success and critically acclaimed, leading to two sequels. The story of John Wick, a former hitman, begins with the search for thieves who broke into his home, stole his car, and killed his puppy, a gift from his late wife. The film is akin to a high-quality video game, filled with chases, stunts, and fights.
Meeting Keanu Reeves
We met Keanu in New York before the premiere of the third “John Wick” film, where he starred alongside Halle Berry. Keanu rarely goes out and is usually at home or work. Dressed in all black, including a suit, shirt, and silk tie, he looks younger than his age. His dark hair and beard match his inquisitive eyes, giving him a gypsy-like appearance. His voice is low and slightly hoarse, and he often responds with friendly jokes.
Interview Highlights
Q: How did John Wick end up being from Belarus?
A: Our films are not based on pre-existing books. The story of John Wick is created parallel to the filming. For the second film, Chad Stahelski suggested linking John Wick’s past with Russian gypsies. We discovered that many of them lived in Belarus. We were impressed by their desire for freedom and independence, as well as their sense of community. John Wick being an orphan adds to his mystery.
Q: How do you manage to keep your personal life private despite your fame?
A: I rarely go out. I am usually at home or at work.
Q: What does fame mean to you?
A: The English word “fame” comes from the Latin “fama,” meaning “right to be known” (smiles). Seriously, I have had a good experience with fame. Many of my works have been well-received by audiences. It always amazes me when strangers ask for autographs or selfies. It’s also incredibly pleasant when talented artists and interesting people want to work with me, giving me the opportunity to do what I love.
Q: Have you met parents who named their sons after you?
A: Yes, I have met some of them. It is a great honor, and I am always grateful for it. If the boy is with his parents, I usually say, “Hi, Keanu! How are you?” (smiles)
Q: There is a film festival in Glasgow, “The KeanuCon,” dedicated to your films. What was your reaction when you heard about it?
A: The first thing I thought was, which films are they going to show there? Right after that, I thought it was amazing.
