Reasons Behind Keanu Reeves’ Absence in Speed 2 and the Fate of His Character Jack Traven

Keanu Reeves is a household name in the action film genre, largely thanks to his iconic role in Speed. While that 1994 blockbuster firmly established him as an action star, Reeves made a notable decision to decline the offer for the sequel, Speed 2: Cruise Control. Following the success of Point Break, Reeves’s portrayal in Speed brought him tremendous acclaim and paved the way for his future roles. However, he wisely chose not to participate in the 1997 sequel, which featured Sandra Bullock reprising her role as Annie, while Jason Patric stepped in as the new lead, Alex. Their characters find themselves in a dire situation on a cruise ship taken over by a vengeful hacker.

Unfortunately for the sequel, Speed 2 was both a critical and commercial failure, earning a meager 4% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Its lack of success was compounded by its inability to recover its substantial budget. Bullock has openly acknowledged her regret over participating in the film, and Reeves’ decision to pass on the role has been viewed retrospectively as a stroke of genius. Nevertheless, the choice came with repercussions; Reeves later revealed to GQ that he was effectively blacklisted by Fox for nearly a decade due to his refusal to join this ill-fated project. Even without Reeves, it is evident that the sequel’s fundamental flaw lay within its questionable premise.

Keanu’s Discontent with the Speed 2 Script

Criticism of the Cruise Ship Concept

Upon receiving the script for Speed 2: Cruise Control, Reeves immediately identified a significant issue: the decision to title a film “Speed”while it took place on a cruise ship, which typically has a maximum speed of about 30 mph. This was significantly slower than the speed that the bus had to maintain in the original film. During an appearance on The Graham Norton Show, Reeves expressed his concerns about the direction of the sequel.

At the time I didn’t respond to the script. I really wanted to work with Sandra Bullock, I loved playing Jack Traven, and I loved ‘Speed’, but an ocean liner? I had nothing against the artists involved, but at that time I had the feeling it just wasn’t right.

Critics echoed Reeves’ sentiments, primarily citing the absurd premise as a major flaw. A reunion between Reeves and Bullock in Speed 2 might have alleviated some of the film’s shortcomings, especially considering the lack of chemistry between Bullock and Patric. However, it seems likely that even their joint presence could not have salvaged a concept as weak as this one.

Years later, Reeves and Bullock reunited for the 2006 romantic drama, The Lake House.

Unpacked Relationships in Speed 2

Annie’s Reflections on Love

Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock in Speed

One of the standout elements of the original Speed was its ability to convincingly depict a romantic relationship between Jack and Annie within a high-stakes scenario. After a harrowing journey to prevent a disastrous explosion, the couple shares a kiss, leaving audiences hopeful about their future together. Yet, by the time of Speed 2, we learn that Jack and Annie have broken up, with Annie now in a relationship with Patric’s character, Alex.

The sequel briefly glosses over the reasons behind their breakup, with Annie simply stating that their romance did not endure. The narrative leans on a previously established quote from Annie, who remarked, “Relationships based on intense experiences never work”—an assertion that resonates strongly in the light of their adrenaline-fueled bond in the first film. This notion raises the possibility that as the intensity of their experience faded, they realized their connection was less substantial than they believed, leading to their separation.

The transition from Jack to Alex feels somewhat lazy, with Alex portraying yet another daring cop. The plot also features Alex’s attempt to propose to Annie amidst the turmoil onboard the ship, a moment that may have felt more genuine if it were Jack making the proposal instead.

Hope for a Possible Speed 3 with Bullock and Reeves

A Glimmer of Possibility

As 2024 marks the 30th anniversary of Speed, the film’s popularity seems to be at an all-time high. Recently, Reeves and Bullock, along with director Jan de Bont, reunited for a special anniversary screening where they discussed the potential for a third installment in the franchise, provided that a compelling concept is proposed. Studio executives at 20th Century Studios, like Steve Asbell, have indicated that they are seriously considering Speed 3.

It is one of those last movies that we haven’t remade. And to really be a reason to come back, it’s got to be a great idea and an idea that excites (Bullock and Keanu Reeves). Because that’d be the reason to see it. It’s obviously a really important title for us, but it’s not something we would handle lightly or just try to press them into service.

Although no official green light has been given, the prospect of a third Speed installment feels more plausible now than ever. That said, Bullock has been known to shy away from sequels following her experiences with Speed 2 and Miss Congeniality 2. Despite her reservations, the actress has expressed a clear affection for the original film, which significantly boosted her career, and is eager to collaborate with Reeves again. However, it would require a truly exceptional script to convince her to step back into the franchise.

The Speed Franchise	Budget	Box Office	Rotten Tomatoes Rating
Speed (1994)	$30 million	$350 million	95%
Speed 2: Cruise Control (1997)	$160 million	$164.5 million	4%

With Reeves recently displaying a greater willingness to revisit past roles—as shown in Bill & Ted Face The Music and The Matrix Resurrections—the idea of reuniting Reeves and Bullock for Speed 3 is certainly tantalizing. Nonetheless, this sequel requires a solid premise to captivate audiences. The original possessed that engaging aspect, while Speed 2 notably lacked it. Should they successfully craft an enticing story, there’s no reason a new chapter in the franchise couldn’t thrive.

Sources: Rotten Tomatoes, GQ, CNN, THR, Box Office Mojo

Source & Images