Whenever people think ofKeanu Reeves, their mind likely goes to one of his big action or sci-fi franchises, yet it’s a whole different genre where he’s actually at his best. It’s understandable to feel that action and sci-fi are Reeves' sweet spots, considering his track record there. Films likePoint BreakandSpeedmade him an action star, whileThe MatrixfranchiseandConstantineboosted him in the eyes of sci-fi fans.
The 2010s and beyond have seen him lean more into the realm of action with the outstandingJohn Wickfranchise, where he even does a lot of his own stunts. However, to find where Reeves is truly at his best, it’s worth looking back to the very beginning of his career. Reeves first broke through as one of the titular characters in theBill & Tedfranchise, showing a hilarious side that is actually still what he shines at.
Keanu Reeves Is Better In Comedic Roles Than People Realize
His Comedic Timing Is Underrated
Since his biggest roles have been outside of the comedy world,people tend to forget just how funny Keanu Reeves is. Dating back to his early success, he’s perfect as the dim-witted but lovable Ted Logan in the first twoBill & Tedmovies. While he moved away from the genre for the most part, it’s not like Reeves has avoided comedy forever after these films. In fact, Reeves reprised his role as Ted decades later inBill & Ted Face the Music, where he received praise for his performance.
It has flown under the radar but Keanu Reeves has appeared in a handful of comedies over the years, showcasing his talents in the genre. He starred in the rom-comDestination Weddingand the sports comedyThe Replacements. The funniest role for Reeves has to be whenhe played an outlandish version of himselfin the Netflix originalAlways Be My Maybe. Seeing him play off the hilarious Ali Wong and Randall Park made for a standout cameo.
Keanu Reeves' best comedic work often comes from voice acting.
However, Keanu Reeves' best comedic work often comes from voice acting. In 2016, he lent his voice to the titular cat in the aptly named action comedyKeanubefore providing the voiceover work for Duke Caboom inToy Story 4, where he steals the show. Since then, Reeves has also done voice work forSonic the Hedgehog 3andDC League of Super-Pets,both in roles that are among the funniest in the films.
Keanu Reeves' Comedy Roles Are More Consistent Than Any Other Genre
It’s next to impossible for any actor, no matter how good they are, to have a filmography where every movie was well-received. In the case of Keanu Reeves, there are indeed ups and downs, mostly spread throughout his action and sci-fi roles. Though they’re what he’s most known for, it’s a mixed bag. For everyThe Matrix,Speed, orJohn Wick, there’sThe Day the Earth Stood Still, 47 Ronin, andReplicas, which all received lackluster reviews.
However,when looking at Keanu Reeves in the comedy genre, it’s mostly a bunch of ups. TheBill & Tedmovies have mostly been met with a warm reception, whileAlways Be My Maybe,Toy Story 4, andSonic the Hedgehog 3are all movies that were appreciated by audiences and critics alike. Even the comedies he makes that are less popular, likeHardballandThe Replacementsstill received at least mixed reviews. Keanu Reeves' comedy slate is impressive.
