In a candid interview, Keanu Reeves discusses his thoughts on death, his new novel co-written with China miéville, and the creative process behind his latest project

Hollywood star Keanu Reeves has always been known for his introspective nature, but his latest revelation brings new depth to his public persona. At 59, Reeves admits to thinking about death frequently, viewing it not as a source of dread but as a catalyst for appreciating life. “I’m 59, so I’m thinking about death all the time,” Reeves shared with BBC News. He sees this contemplation as a way to foster a deeper appreciation for life and relationships.

This introspection forms the backdrop of his new project, “The Book of Elsewhere,” his first foray into novel writing. Co-authored with acclaimed British science fiction writer China Miéville, the book tells the story of an immortal warrior named B, who longs for the peace of death. The novel expands on the themes explored in Reeves’ earlier comic book series, BRZRKR, which has gained substantial popularity and is set to be adapted into both a Netflix film and an anime series.

Meeting in a dimly lit hotel bar in central London, Reeves and Miéville discuss their collaboration. The Canadian actor, who juggles his time between acting and his band, Dogstar, appears somewhat fatigued but remains passionate about the novel. “The Book of Elsewhere” continues the narrative from the BRZRKR series, featuring a character who, despite his supernatural abilities, grapples with profound existential questions.

The character B, who bears a striking resemblance to Reeves with his long dark hair, contrasts sharply with the actor’s gentle, real-life persona. While Reeves is known for his kind demeanour, B is depicted as a figure of intense violence, capable of extreme brutality. Reeves acknowledges that his role in action films like “John Wick” and “Speed” likely influenced the character’s violent traits.

Critics have responded positively to the BRZRKR comic book, though its depiction of violence has sparked debate. Reviews vary, with some praising the book’s creativity and others noting its graphic content. When asked about the connection between on-screen violence and real-world aggression, Reeves hopes readers will understand that the book’s violence is meant to serve the story, not inspire real-life actions. Miéville shares this perspective, arguing that blaming media for violence is a distraction from the real issues at play.

Reeves reflects on the creative process, suggesting that building fantasy worlds offers comfort and a way to channel pain into art. Despite his reputation for generosity and minimalist lifestyle, he asserts his enjoyment of owning things and challenges the notion that he gives everything away.

“The Book of Elsewhere,” published on 23 July by Penguin, marks a significant milestone in Reeves’ career. His exploration of mortality and the creative process adds a new layer to his multifaceted public image, blending personal reflections with imaginative storytelling.

Analysis:

Political:

Reeves’ reflections on death and his creative endeavours touch on broader political themes of how society deals with existential issues. His openness about mortality contrasts with societal tendencies to avoid or stigmatize discussions about death. By addressing these themes in his novel, Reeves challenges conventional attitudes and encourages a more thoughtful engagement with life and its impermanence.

Social:

Reeves’ approach to discussing death and creating art underscores a shift towards more open conversations about mental health and existential concerns. His novel reflects a growing trend where public figures use their platforms to explore deep and often difficult topics. This candidness may inspire others to confront their own thoughts on mortality and seek meaningful ways to engage with their lives.

Racial:

While the novel itself does not directly address racial issues, Reeves’ and Miéville’s collaboration highlights a diverse cultural exchange. Miéville’s involvement brings a distinctly British perspective to the project, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. This cross-cultural partnership reflects broader trends in the global entertainment industry, where diverse voices and experiences contribute to richer storytelling.

Gender:

Reeves’ portrayal of B, a character marked by extreme violence, contrasts with his real-life image as a gentle and thoughtful individual. This divergence highlights the often complex relationship between public personas and the characters they play. The novel’s exploration of gender roles through its protagonist’s actions and struggles could also prompt discussions about masculinity and its representation in media.

Economic:

From an economic perspective, Reeves’ venture into novel writing and adapting BRZRKR into a Netflix film and anime series represent significant commercial opportunities. The success of such projects not only boosts Reeves’ career but also has broader implications for the publishing and entertainment industries. The financial success of these ventures will likely influence future collaborations between actors and authors, setting a precedent for similar cross-industry projects.

In summary, Keanu Reeves’ latest work and his reflections on mortality offer a window into the evolving nature of public discourse on existential themes. His collaboration with China Miéville and the resulting novel, “The Book of Elsewhere,” exemplify how personal experiences and creative exploration intersect to create impactful art.