Keanu Reeves’ Unmissable Films: His Own Essential Picks
Keanu Reeves has played a remarkable range of roles, making it tricky to select just a handful of his must-see films. In a revealing interview, he shared 18 titles he believes everyone should watch.
There’s a running joke that Keanu Reeves is a vampire—not because he avoids the sun, but because he seems to have sidestepped the usual rules of ageing. His career, spanning decades and genres, has made him a constant presence on our screens. Whether it’s action, comedy, or drama, Reeves has tackled it all, often in the most unexpected ways. From the high-octane spectacle of The Matrix to the offbeat humour of Bill & Ted, and the poignant drama of My Own Private Idaho, his versatility is undeniable.
It’s not easy to narrow down his most significant roles, especially when considering the impact of films like My Own Private Idaho. This particular work stands out, not only for its cultural resonance but also for the chemistry between Reeves and River Phoenix. Their dynamic brought the story’s themes to life, a point director Gus Van Sant later reflected on:
“I saw a bit of the hill in Keanu’s personality and a bit of the street in River’s. They played out those extensions of themselves.”
Reeves’ ability to adapt and shine alongside any co-star is a thread running through his filmography. More often than not, he becomes the focal point, making it a challenge for fans to pick just one essential film.
Reeves’ Own List of Must-Sees
When pressed to name his essential works, Reeves didn’t settle for a single answer. Instead, he rattled off a list of 18 films during an interview with Esquire.
“Off the top of my head, if I’m going to answer this question,”
he began, before naming: River’s Edge, Permanent Record, Bill & Ted’s 1 and 2, Matrix trilogy, Constantine, Thumbsucker, A Scanner Darkly, Speed and more. Noticing he’d mentioned Constantine twice, he added a few others: John Wick, My Own Private Idaho, Generation Um…, Man of Tai Chi, The Private Lives of Pippa Lee, Little Buddha, Dracula.
“All those films kind of change your life.”
It’s a bold claim, but not without merit. Many of these titles do leave a lasting impression, especially on repeat viewings. Their layers and subtleties reveal themselves over time, offering something new with each revisit. Reeves’ career is a treasure trove for anyone keen to explore the breadth of modern cinema.
Legacy and Reflection
What’s striking is that Reeves shared this list while reflecting on his own anxieties about time passing and the things he still hopes to achieve. Yet, looking at the breadth of his work, it’s clear he’s already built a remarkable legacy. And, assuming he is in fact mortal, there’s every chance he’ll add even more to this impressive catalogue in the years ahead.
For those new to his work or long-time admirers, there’s plenty to discover. Each film on his list offers a different facet of his talent, and together, they chart the journey of an actor who has quietly become one of the most enduring figures in contemporary film.