Maelstrom: Keanu Reeves Replaces Alan Ritchson in New Netflix Action Movie
The draft screenplay has been around since 1993
Keanu Reeves has found his next film project: According to Page Six Hollywood, Reeves will take on the lead role in the new Netflix action film "Maelstrom". Originally, "Reacher" star Alan Ritchson was considered for the project, but he left the production.
Die Hard Meets Disaster Movie
"Maelstrom" will be directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, who previously helmed the Netflix action thriller "Carry-On". The story centers on a U.S. marshal tasked with protecting the fiancée of a dangerous arms dealer. The woman wants to testify against her partner and is therefore to be placed in the witness protection program. But just as they're on a joint mission, a massive hurricane strikes. Communication with the outside world breaks down, and backup is no longer available. As the storm rages outside, the two must simultaneously defend themselves against a horde of armed attackers.
The screenplay is currently being reworked by Mark Bianculli, who worked on "How to Rob a Bank", among other projects. It is based on an earlier draft by the late screenwriter Gregory Fitzpatrick. The project has a long history: Fitzpatrick's screenplay draft was sold to Warner Bros. as early as 1993. Jeff Robinov, who is now involved in the film as a producer, was working as an agent at the time and brokered the deal for the script. Even back then, the concept was described as a sort "Die Hard" set during a hurricane. It is said that between $225,000 and $625,000 was paid for the draft at the time. A production never materialized – until now!
Other Projects with Keanu Reeves
In addition to "Maelstrom", Keanu Reeves has a number of other projects in the works. According to Deadline, he will also star in the spy thriller "Kill Current". "Kill Current" is a film adaptation of the novel of the same name by author Oliver Lowe. However, the book itself has not yet been published – its release is scheduled for May 2027. The story is described as a true spy thriller: tensions between three governments, shadowy intelligence agencies, and international settings. The plot takes viewers from Shanghai to Berlin. However, it won't stop at just one novel – according to Deadline, an entire book series is planned. Whether multiple films in the thriller series will be made remains to be seen. At this time, no details regarding the release date of "Kill Current" are known.
And then there's the new film from "Deadpool" director Tim Miller. Reeves plays an unsuccessful smuggler who's tasked with completing a job in the Caribbean. In the process, he has to deal with pirates, corpses, and hungry sharks. On top of that, he's trapped in a deadly time loop! This wild mix of genres is said to be reminiscent of the popular sci-fi action film "Edge of Tomorrow", starring Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt. We'll see "F1" actress Callie Cooke by his side. The release date is currently scheduled for August 13, 2027. However, it's still unclear what the sci-fi film starring Reeves will be called. Initially, there was talk of "Shiver". However, it's now reported that this is not the final title.