“I remember the script and I was like, ‘Eh?”: Even Keanu Reeves Wasn’t Impressed With the Script for His Iconic Movie With Sandra Bullock That Needs a Threequel Soon
- Keanu Reeves almost missed out on becoming a 'Speed' star.
- Initially unimpressed, Reeves eventually took on the iconic role.
- Despite success, he refused the sequel and stands firm.
Who would have thought that one of Hollywood’s biggest action stars nearly missed out on becoming a household name with the Speed franchise? Keanu Reeves, known for his cool and calm style, wasn’t initially excited about the script for the high-energy thriller Speed.
But behind the scenes, a series of events started that would eventually change his career and redefine the action genre. Not only did it become a box office hit, but it also received a lot of love from critics and won two Oscars for Best Sound and Best Sound Effects Editing.
Keanu Reeves Nearly Turned Down Speed Due to Its Script
Before he was Neo dodging bullets in The Matrix or John Wick taking names, Keanu Reeves was known for playing brooding, high school outsiders. Point Break, where he played a surfer-turned-FBI agent, was his entry into action films.
However, it had a stylish, almost artistic spin on the genre. So, when the script for Speed arrived, featuring a story about a bus rigged with a bomb, Reeves wasn’t exactly excited. In an interview with Esquire, the Hollywood star said:
I remember the script and I was like, ‘Eh?’ I mean, the plot’s ridiculous.
It’s surprising to hear from an actor who became famous for playing action heroes. But Reeves wanted more than just action and stunts. He was looking for a character with depth, an ordinary person thrust into extraordinary situations.
Reeves’ agent was sure Speed was the right choice. After some convincing, they managed to get the hesitant actor to agree to the role. That decision changed everything. Reeves brought something special to Jack Traven, a SWAT team member turned bus hero.
Unlike the typical action stars of the time, Reeves was down-to-earth, relatable, and surprisingly charming. His undeniable chemistry with co-star Sandra Bullock also added a romantic touch to the high-octane thriller.
Reeves Refused Speed 2, But Fans Want More
Speed was a massive success, and the nicest guy in Hollywood became an overnight sensation. But the actor was firm on one thing: there would be no Speed 2. Despite pressure from the studio and his co-star, Keanu Reeves refused to come back for the sequel, especially given it’s lackluster script.
When he was given a script about a cruise ship, he simply said, “It’s called Speed and it’s on a cruise ship.” After he turned down the sequel, 20th Century Fox didn’t work with him for ten years. Speed 2: Cruise Control was a flop, with weak chemistry between the stars and a dull plot.
While fans have been clamoring for a Speed 3 for years, Reeves stands firm in his decision. Maybe the magic of the original is in its simplicity: a ticking clock, a speeding bus, and two ordinary people in an extraordinary situation.
There’s no official date for Speed 3 yet, as it’s not in development. However, on the 50 MPH podcast, stars Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock have recently shown interest in returning.
Watch Speed on Disney+!
