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Fans love actors for many reasons, including their acting ability, charisma, charms, or the level of production they appear in. One of the most popular actors is Keanu Reeves, an action star who delivered many classic films in the 1990s and continues to produce countless entertaining flicks. Viewers love Reeves not only because of his acting style, coolness, and general likeability but also because he is a kind and empathetic soul.
From over-the-top action films to poignant dramas to goofy comedies, Reeves can entertain fans in any genre he pleases. However, with so many good films, choosing one to watch can be difficult, which is why this list will break down his top ten movies based on quality, acting, and impact on the film. This list will include a variety of projects from the actor to include as many unique films as possible, meaning there will only be one John Wick film.
10 'Point Break' (1991)
Appeared as Johnny Utah
Image via Warner Bros.
While Reeves was an up-and-coming star in the film industry, his co-lead in Point Break, Patrick Swayze, was an established icon. This unlikely duo shocked the world with their budding bond in the film, which formed after Johnny Utah (Reeves) began investigating a group of robbers. Infiltrating a group of thrill-seeking surfers, Utah slowly pieces the puzzle together while connecting with the members.
The 1990s were full of wild action films that aimed to please the audience with big explosions and in-your-face action, and that's precisely what Point Break delivered. While it may seem a bit goofy or campy, the film does and excels at what it sets out to do. Point Break is a wildly entertaining action film with impressive stunts and an emotional and tragic bond, something the Point Break remake failed to capture.
Point Break
Release Date July 12, 1991
Runtime 122 Minutes
9 'River's Edge' (1986)
Appeared as Matt
Image via Island Records
River's Edge was one of Reeves' first films, which might have gained him the most recognition early in his career. The film is loosely based on the real-life murder of Marcy Renee Conrad in 1981. After a teenager murders his girlfriend and leaves her exposed corpse lying by the river, he brings his friends to laugh at her body. However, the friend group now struggles with their conscience and what to do with this dark predicament.
Teen movies during this time mainly consisted of college romps and fun times, but River's Edge switched up the formula by creating one of the darkest teen movies. It was one of the earliest examples of the kid killer genre, allowing for more complex philosophical and psychological debates. River's Edge is a dark and thrilling noir, with Reeves delivering a stellar performance in one of his most profound movies.
Release Date August 27, 1986
Director Tim Hunter
Runtime 100 minutes
8 'Parenthood' (1989)
Appeared as Tod Higgins
Image via Universal Pictures
It was around this time that Reeves' career started to take off, with him starring alongside Steve Martin and Joaquin Phoenix in Parenthood. This ensemble film is about the struggles of a father trying to manage his expansive family, whether it be his rambunctious kids or unsupportive siblings. Reeves stars as Tod, the boyfriend of one of the daughters and the voice of reason and the heart of the film.
Inspired by the director, writers, and producers' parenting experience, Parenthood delivers an authentic comedy that knows when to go over the top and when to ground things in reality. The film is a hilarious and relatable journey for all ages and provides some impactful and heartfelt scenes. It even earned multiple TV show spin-offs, which gained popularity, proving how good this movie is.
Release Date July 31, 1989
Runtime 124
Main Genre Comedy
7 'Dangerous Liaisons' (1988)
Appeared as Le Chevalier Danceny
Image via Warner Bros.
Originally adapted from Pierre Choderlos de Laclos' 1782 novel Les Liaisons Dangereuses, Dangerous Liaisons remakes it into a film using Christopher Hampton's play. The film is set in 18th-century France and follows the schemes and jealousy of the royal court as they ruin each other's lives. Amidst the treacherous games, Reeves plays a handsome music teacher who falls in love with one of the protagonists.
While Reeves doesn't have the most prominent role in Dangerous Liaisons, his performance is still notable in this dramatic feast. Also one of the best films of co-star Uma Thurman, this movie is ripe with drama, intrigue, and messy schemes to hook every fan. Dangerous Liaisons is one of Reeves' critically best movies, earning seven Oscar nominations.
Dangerous Liaisons
Release Date December 21, 1988
Runtime 119 minutes
6 'My Own Private Idaho' (1991)
Appeared as Scott Favor
Image via Fine Line Features
Before the passing of River Phoenix, he starred alongside Reeves in My Own Private Idaho, a dramatic journey from coast to coast. Loosely based on a Shakespeare play, the film follows a street kid with narcolepsy and the mayor's son on a grand adventure. Set on finding Mike's mother, the duo travels across the country and eventually to Italy, discovering who they are.
While fans most know Reeves for his exciting action movies, movies like My Own Private Idaho have established him as a renowned actor. He gives a beautiful performance in a profound film that defined queer culture in cinema, revolutionizing the industry. This emotional film is full of ups and downs, but the quality is consistently amazing, delivering an eye-opening experience.
Release Date February 1, 1991
Runtime 104 Minutes
Main Genre Drama
5 'Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure' (1989)
Appeared as Ted
Image via Orion Pictures
Tests were one of the worst parts of school, especially when students went to them without studying. Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure solves that problem by making studying interesting. The titular characters go on a time-traveling journey, encountering historical figures that will help the two learn everything they need for their history test.
In action or drama, Reeves can do it all, but Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure proves he can hold his own as a lead in a comedy movie. Duo comedy films are a staple, and Bill and Ted capitalize on the hype at the perfect time to deliver a unique and goofy comedy that never takes itself too seriously. The cheesiness and humor never stop, making this one of Reeves' most rewatchable films, and fans will find value in it every time.
Release Date February 17, 1989
Director Stephen Herek
Runtime 90 minutes
4 'Toy Story 4' (2019)
Appeared as Duke Caboom
Image via Pixar Animation Studios
The Toy Story franchise ended perfectly, wrapping up the trilogy as one of the most influential animated films of all time. However, Toy Story 4 returned the original cast with Reeves for a new adventure. On a road trip with their new owner and toy, Forky, the toys suddenly separate, leading Woody and Forky to embark on a long journey to return to their owner.
While no one asked for or needed a new Toy Story, the fourth entry is still a phenomenal animated film, with Pixar proving the franchise can still be fresh and exciting. Toy Story 4 is one of the best recent Pixar films, exploring mature themes while delivering an entertaining experience for all ages. Despite his limited role, Reeves is a highlight of the film and a cherry on top of another Pixar masterpiece.
Release Date June 21, 2019
Director Josh Cooley
Runtime 100 Minutes
3 'Speed' (1994)
Appeared as Jack Traven
Image via 20th Century Studios
Reeves stars as Jack Traven in Speed, a Los Angeles police officer who pisses off the wrong person. Out for revenge, the criminal plants a bomb in a bus, with it set to explode if the vehicle slows down below a specific limit. Traven must cleverly find a way to defuse the bomb with the driver and other passengers while it is still moving, leading to intense scenarios.
No one thought riding the bus would make a great movie—until the film Speed proved otherwise. This action-packed thrill fest is an over-the-top masterpiece that knows when to go above and beyond or take a breather while maintaining the perfect flow and pace. It blends comedy, action, and romance while switching between grittiness and absurdity, creating one of the most unique action movies ever, making the prospect of Speed 3 interesting.
Release Date June 10, 1994
Runtime 116 minutes
2 'John Wick: Chapter 4' (2023)
Appeared as John Wick
Image via Lionsgate
John Wick: Chapter 4 is the thrilling finale of one of the greatest modern action franchises that will continue with spin-offs like Ballerina. After the whole world hunts Wick in the third movie, the fourth and final film has him seeking vengeance on the untouchable High Table, who betrayed him. This is one last epic fight Wick faces against his most formidable opponents yet.
All four John Wick movies would make this list if possible, but to include a variety of Reeves' films, only the best John Wick movie made the list. As the most recent film on this list, John Wick: Chapter 4 is fresh in everyone's mind and isn't likely to leave any time soon, considering the last impact and memorable moments. It is the ultimate conclusion to his story, with some of the most impressive action sequences, worldbuilding, and thrilling details.
Release Date March 24, 2023
Runtime 169 minutes
1 'The Matrix' (1999)
Appeared as Neo/ Thomas Anderson
Image via Warner Bros.
This wouldn't be reality if The Matrix weren't on this list, considering it is one of the most influential sci-fi films ever. Capitalizing on the fear of the Internet and the World Wide Web, this movie follows Neo as he learns about the truth of this world. With machines ruling humanity, he must lead a revolution against them to free the world while struggling to decide whether he prefers reality or fantasy.
Fans can debate which is Reeves' best movie, and while there are many incredible ones, none has the lasting legacy and impact as The Matrix. The film was a technical innovation responsible for bullet time and many other filming techniques that are now a staple. Besides the mind-bending visuals, The Matrix offers stellar action sequences and one of the best plots in an action movie, resulting in Keanu Reeves' best film.
The Matrix
Release Date March 31, 1999
Runtime 136 minutes
English (US) ·