Keanu Reeves Dodged the Biggest Movie Disaster of the 90s

The bravest decision an artist can make is to say no, and Keanu Reeves did just that with the notorious sequel to Speed.

Just look at the numbers: the original Speed (1994) remains at an almost-perfect 95% on Rotten Tomatoes, while its sequel, Speed 2: Cruise Control (1997), sits at an embarrassing 4%.

The gap between these scores is shocking, and the movie itself can rightfully be called the worst sequel of all time.

The words of film critic Kenneth Turan (Los Angeles Times) about the original Speed say it all:

“Nothing this film puts on screen hasn’t been done before, but director Jan De Bont and company manage to make it feel fresh and exciting.”

And here's what he had to say about the sequel:

“Even the film's big-ticket closing stunts are more impressive for their size than for any excitement they generate.”

In other words, bigger isn't always better. But how could a follow-up to such a beloved action thriller go so terribly wrong? And more importantly, what made Keanu Reeves, at the height of his fame, walk away from a guaranteed $12 million check?

Let's figure this out.

Why Keanu Reeves Rejected Speed 2: Cruise Control

Well, Reeves explained his decision himself on The Graham Norton Show, saying:

“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.” (via CNN)

A polite and cordial response, as always. We didn't expect anything less from him. And, honestly, he's right. You just can't recreate that same intensity the first part had on a massive boat. A cruise ship just feels like they were trying too hard to go bigger without actually thinking about how to make it better.

Speed 2 Lacked Reeves and Bullock Chemistry

It’s safe to say that Reeves' absence really affected the movie.

One of the original movie's secret weapons was the chemistry between Reeves and Sandra Bullock. Their characters, Jack and Annie, fell in love while trying to save a bus full of people (talk about a unique first date!). But Speed 2 fumbled this winning formula. The sequel awkwardly explained Jack's absence with a throwaway line about him and Annie breaking up.

As a result, the movie disappointed viewers from the start. No Jack? No interesting story.

So next time you're in the mood for some '90s action, take a cue from Keanu and stick with the original Speed. Both films are available on Apple TV+, but trust us (and Keanu): you only need to watch one.