1

thats cool, keanu is cool, i dont know why people give him such a hard time, there are worst actors out there. Cowboy Bebop is awesome and with Keanu on board, no doubt its gonna be cool!

Lou on Jul 30, 2008

2

should be interesting. Hes doing a few things i see. Cnt wait for TDTESS!

BIG R on Jul 30, 2008

3

Hmm… I'm down..
At first I was like WTF!!! Thats bad casting.. But now i've calmed down and thought about it a little bit, and yeah he'll probly do well…

I'm all for live action anime movies..

Blake B on Jul 30, 2008

4

Keanu definitely has my vote, seeing those two pics side by side. He definitely has a striking resemblance to renegade Yakuza Spike Spiegel. His physique fits, plus all the kick arse martial arts experience he got from the Matrix movies will only make it betta!

Nwazo on Jul 30, 2008

5

he is to old for this!

mke on Jul 30, 2008

6

if not keanu, you know who kinda would look a lot better for spike! Adrien Brody! he kinda looks like him.

Lou on Jul 30, 2008

7

My first reaction is to agree with #6. However, Keanu Reeves is a good actor, so maybe he'll be able to pull off the persona that is Spike. That and I can't think of someone who is right for the role.

Whatwasthatfor? on Jul 30, 2008

8

Adrien Brody? Man, Spike is supposed to be good looking and rough around the edges. Brody is neither of these.

Marty Martin - IMAGEN Films on Jul 30, 2008

9

Well my first reaction to the announcement of this movie was pretty negative, and although I'm not a big Keanu fan I actually think he's perfect for the role. a lanky yet physically fit all around cool dude. take neo and mix in some bill and ted and it should be interesting.

Alexander on Jul 30, 2008

10

I like Keanu Reeves a lot, he is very underrated. And he is great in those type of characters. The most important for this project is: WHO will direct it?

Sam on Jul 30, 2008

11

GO BACK TO THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE! I SAID THAT THREE LINES IN!!!!

Kent on Jul 30, 2008

12

i love love love keanu but i do think he's a bit too old for this role. needs to be a guy in his 20s

ybne1 on Jul 30, 2008

13

you know…i think keanu is a good pick for this role. and the bigger the budget, the greater it'll be. i imagine the atmosphere to be a bit like blade runner, but larger and more technology based.

Matt Suhu on Jul 30, 2008

14

as much as i don't want this film to happen, keanu would be great for this role. nice casting

Darrin on Jul 30, 2008

15

absolutely not. Keanu can play mysterious and stoic well but he literally acts exactly the same in every movie. spike as a character is very expressive, he moves around alot (watch the fight scenes from the show) he is emotional and rash and reactive. keanu is none of these things. honestly i dont even know if he'll make a good klaatu.

Tait Howard on Jul 30, 2008

16

plus, spike is lanky and skinny. keanu may have a similiar face but he's got the completely wrong body type.

Tait Howard on Jul 30, 2008

17

Keanu is waaay cool! Sometimes, too cool for his own sake. Let's be real, Spike has HIS face!

Sam on Jul 30, 2008

18

Nice! Im in. I think Keanu Reeves is perfect for this part, but I don't dislike him like others so….. who knows

Traveler on Jul 30, 2008

19

I really would hate to see Keanu portray Spike…
I love Cowboy Bebop, and I love Keanu Reeve's movies, but I hate Keanu Reeves. He can't act

Mr. Pockets on Jul 30, 2008

20

Good, Reeves is great. I never figure out why people give him a hard time.

#19 why do you hate him, he's not in the news being a dumbass and a coke head, can you give a proper explanation of why you hate KEANU REEVES???

And Reeves can act watch A, Scanner Darkly, or Rivers Edge.

Xerxex on Jul 30, 2008

21

Keanu was ace in Street Kings. If he mixes Tom Ludlow and John Constantine, he will make a great Spike. And, for real, that "can't act" spell that people use to say about him is unfair. A man can't be Ted Logan and Neo (or Tom Ludlow, for that matter) and still labelled as someone who can't act! Those characters are different from each other as they can be!

Sam on Jul 30, 2008

22

I never thought I would think this, but Keanu would make a pretty good Spike I think, though there may be better Im sure.

I think his real problem is that he takes a lot of crappy scripts, which makes him seem 1 dimensional with his acting.

Breach on Jul 30, 2008

23

I can't think of any other actor who looks so much like Spike. Maybe Adrien Brody, but not quite. He doesn't really have an action hero vibe, while Keanu's Matrix skillz could come in handy here. Hard core fans will probably holler for an unknown or a young newbie to be cast, but I think the reason the studio is willing to give the film a big budget is because of the big name attached. Minor star gets a minor budget from them and Cowboy Bebop deserves a big budget. Look at how cheap and cheesy Street Fighter looks. A cheap Cowboy Bebop could easily end up like that. And of all the big names that the studio would give out a big budget to, Keanu best fits the role. I'm sure they wouldn't mind casting Matt Damon or Bale or Crowe, but Keanu is actually a good compromise with the fans between big name and most fitting to the looks and type of the role IMO.

Deb on Jul 31, 2008

24

I'm sorry for Dave13, he will hate this when he sees this.

lol.

SillySil on Jul 31, 2008

25

Interesting that the anime character has more of a personality and more depth than the actor that could portray him.

Why is it that people just insist on hiring people like Keanu Reeves, Brad Pitt, and Tom Cruise for everything, regardless of whether they fit, or if someone else would be better suited to the role.

Why the heck not pick someone with a less recognizable face, perhaps someone that better embodies the character? They would save money, and make a better film without insulting the original source.

People liked Spike on Cowboy Bebop because he WASN'T boring, so why cast Keanu Reeves?

I cringe at who will get cast for the rest of the characters.

Limmic on Jul 31, 2008

26

"People liked Spike on Cowboy Bebop because he WASN'T boring, so why cast Keanu Reeves?"

Because he's probably the farthest from 'boring' among Hollywood actors.

Anakin McFly on Jul 31, 2008

27

Well unlike Mr.25, I think Brad Pitt would make an excellent Spike. Spike is laid back and funny and sarcastic and has an 'i don`t care' smile. Everything Brad can do.
He doesn`t even need to dye his hair because evidentially actors don`t need to look a thing like the anime characters (see the upcoming DBZ movie)
But Keanu…?
I mean I loved him in Matrix but everything else? He`s monotonous, uses the same face for every emotion, and has the warmth of a snowpea…
That isn`t Spike.
I wouldn`t choose Adrian either. Too old and too…what`s the word…well, all the movies he plays these very stiff, polite, well polished characters and I just couldn`t see him playing Spike.
And don`t even suggest Nicholas Cage because I have only three words for anyone who does.
HE.
CAN`T.
ACT.
^^ That is all.

Torq on Jul 31, 2008

28

why……

zwandaba on Jul 31, 2008

29

Pitt? Bale? Damon? For Hell, none seems like Spike! If it is to depart from the look of the original character, so hire an unknown. Keanu looks like Spike. Well, Spike looks like Keanu Reeves, he is like a Keanu manga. And, for real, anyone who saw Street Kings knows the guy can act the hell out, he was great in it, that opening scene with the Korean guys sold me on him big time (basically a Asian looking guy mocking two other Asian looking guys…). Shame few people saw it and still thinking he is the God-like pensive Neo. He isn't like that. And to call Keanu boring or dumb shows none of you guys knows a thing about him. The guy is very funny and wit (see Matrix Revisited or Devils Advocate commentaries), the problem is that he doesn't give many interviews and, REALLY, never appears on the media selling his private persona as it was a character. He hides the whole time and only shows up when promoting a movie. IMO that is why so many people relates him with his characters, as the real Keanu never really shows his real face.

Sam on Jul 31, 2008

30

of all the people!!!!!!!!
seriously the man is a plank, how can he ever be able to carry the suave coolness of spike.

he only ever plays detached characters, and on top of that if anyone has watched the episodes
u'll know that despite his matrix 'training', he lacks the fluidity and grace of spike's fighting style
and is probably to old to ever be as limber as spike.

if the world was a sane place, i would leave this beauty of a show as an animation,
and pump up the budget on that!!!

(Bill and ted's bogus adventure should not even be used as an example to highlight mr reeves
dynamic acting ability)

*********despair

grham on Jul 31, 2008

31

I hope the producers are speaking to the creators of Bebop to get more of the backstory. I'm sure they know who Spike was based off of originally, and that goes for the rest of the characters as well. I think Keanu can pull it off, but I'd like to see more comments from the creators.

And Yoko Kanno better be producing the soundtrack for this.

Diego on Jul 31, 2008

32

The only argument i see against Reeves being Spike is that he can't act. Other than that he fits the bill perfectly. Just gotta have some faith that he can pull this off, because i definitely agree with comment #23, there is no better actor that can fit the role like Keanu and if u get a no name newb actor it might not the fame and high budget is needs to be a good moive. So all u cyring babies need to stfu and just have a lil faith in Keenu this time. He might impress.

OrangeMysterio85 on Jul 31, 2008

33

I was barely able to read that article. F*** NO KEANU!
why is he still employed? he can't play spike! well my day just got ruined.

dave13 on Jul 31, 2008

34

I'm with 32 (except it didn't ruin my day), Keanu seems like a poor choice. I agree that they look similar, but Spike's supposed to be 27, and Keanu's 45 this year. New face is likely a better option, but if Keanu's already attached…. I hope they reconsider–or at least cast better for the rest of the gang. Think they'll die Keanu's hair greenish.

Dee on Jul 31, 2008

35

I really dont agree with Reeves as Spike. The only person i can think of with the true fluidity of Spike would be an actor like Jason Statham. although im not exactly sure how well that would work out.

i dont hate Reeves but he really does not have the right fit with anything about Spike. especially in speaking.

Kyle on Jul 31, 2008

36

No to Keanu!!

1) He's old (Spike is 27). He won't be able to be the swift, able-bodied kind of guy Spike is. If you think his experience in the Matrix will pull for that… that was nearly a decade ago and pretty much all CG.

2) He can act a little, but Spike has real depth and real charm. There's no way that Keanu can pull off so much vibe. He's a frickin sex symbol in the animeverse for Christ's sake (see link):

http://www.neighborhoodies.com/anime-raised-standards-high-real-p-182.html

3) Maybe the dub has bewitched me, but I'd really like someone with as sexy a voice as Steve Blum to play Spike. Can you imagine Keanu having to say "my my right eye sees the present, while my left eye sees the past" without it sounding completely cheeseball? Nuh-uh.

I can kind of see DiCaprio playing this role, but I'd prefer a B or C class actor putting on the honor of Spike.

I wonder if this is going to play up on Vicious or just be some goofy bounty hunter movie. We should remind the execs that this is the single-most popular anime in the entire United States (not so much in Japan). And I swear to god they better use the same music!

P.S. Alex, either you used Wikipedia or are a fan yourself. If it's the latter I have a good deal more respect for you. ^_^

Nettle on Jul 31, 2008

37

Daniel Day-Lewis.

completely impossible, but he should play Spike. right body type and looks, but too old.

In reality, I think it should be someone more like Jim Sturgess, after physical training, or Billy Crudup, whose unfortunately pretty short.

a-ritt on Jul 31, 2008

38

What sad news…if Keanu is playing this role, Spike will end up like every other character he has played since Bill and Ted…they should get Ben Whishaw for the role, who played the Jokerman/Thief aspect of Bob Dylan in "I'm Not There." He totally has that chain-smoker, insomniac look, and is a fantastic actor. And I hope that they can incorporate the cool influences from the show, like the feel of film noir, french new wave, 60's spy movies, and modern sci-fi. I hope it doesn't suck…

Oliver on Jul 31, 2008

39

You know, it's the voice that is so crucial for Spike, I don't think Keanu's beach vibe is right for Spike. I'm not saying I have a better choice, I mean, the appearance is fine, but the voice is going to be a failure.

Paul on Jul 31, 2008

40

He actually fits the part…….Hope they don't screw up the rest of the people

insanartist on Jul 31, 2008

41

Can't belive they didn't mention Jame's Cameron's Battle angel

as for Reeves, my 1st impession is what? with that heavy surfer-accent, and that dumb look thats always on his face, i can't see him as Spike… but his looks are close, and if he can get the attitude, he might be OK

zipper on Jul 31, 2008

42

F***. Nevermind.

Eirraca on Jul 31, 2008

43

Reeves is totally wrong.

Spike has easy swagger and charm. The same kind of thing that made Sean Connery good as Bond, while Roger Moore seemed stiff.

And as someone else above brought up, Reeves voice blows it - no slag to him - just completely miscast.

Off the top of my head, this guy would be better - http://tinyurl.com/67efmq


They've got to use Yoko Kanno for the music - no questions asked.

giantrockstar on Jul 31, 2008

44

PLease let this project fall into the pits of hell. I shudder at the thought of Keanu Reeves as Spike. I could see it now, Danny Devito as Jet Black, Lassie as Ein, Mary Kate Olsen as Ed, oh god, i think im gonna be sick.

suddenlysuicidal on Jul 31, 2008

45

He's too old!!! though I like the fact that there is a big name attached to the project but we need someone younger!!

mike on Jul 31, 2008

46

Ryan Renolds!!

EvoDC on Jul 31, 2008

47

More importantly, who is going to get cast as Faye Valentine?

And will Hollywood keep her yellow two piece outfit?

Bob on Jul 31, 2008

48

Cowboy Bebop is already cast!

Jeffrey Donovan as Spike
Bruce Campbell as Jet
Gabrielle Anwar as Faye

It's pretty much Burn Notice on USA only with a serious budget. The movie pretty much writes itself.

Byrd on Jul 31, 2008

49

PLEASE GOD NO!!!!!!!

Worst.. actor.. EVER. ;_;

UGH on Jul 31, 2008

50

Keanu as Spike? Oh god no…

HollywoodGame on Jul 31, 2008

51

@#48 Byrd:

Where'd you find that? That sounds… perfect. Gabrielle Anwar has some pretty tiny boobs compared to Faye's, but nothing else seems bad about any of them.

I even googled Bruce Campbell and got a picture of him with a prosthetic arm from another film.

Nettle on Jul 31, 2008

52

I think adrian brody would be much better…

Halfcabbage on Jul 31, 2008

53

You've generated quite the buzz Alex! Congrats. Way to go on your exclusive scoop man!

And Keanu as Spike gets a thumbs up for me too. It's okay with me.

pepperup potion on Aug 1, 2008

54

oh for the love of all things sacred, WHY?

darkcloud on Aug 1, 2008

55

i don't care who plays it as long as they get the look and the voice right, damn spike makes me wet.

MEOw on Aug 1, 2008

56

ooh i really am with 38 37 has a good idea too

keanu is to stiff for the role.. physicly his good bu the voice and his move.. :/

rahciach on Aug 1, 2008

57

No. There is somebody far superior to play Spike… Lee Pace from "Wonderfalls" and "Pushing Daisys" fame. He looks exactly like him and is the appropriate age…

Andrew on Aug 1, 2008

58

OMG! you're so right! XD Lee is great and so tall
but can he play badass? ._.

rahciach on Aug 1, 2008

59

I was actually excited when I first heard about this movie…until now.

Cowboy Bebop is one of my favorite television shows of all time, and trust me when I say this - Keanu Reeves is no Spike Spiegel.

I guess we'll just have to see what happens.

Squeak on Aug 1, 2008

60

it would be a travesty if he played spike! They need someone who can actually act to play him!

me on Aug 1, 2008

61

There goes my enthusiasm for the Cowbow Bebop movie.

Pato2747 on Aug 1, 2008

62

KEANU SUCKS!!
his only good film was Breakpoint, he should've retired after that!

If Christian Bale wasn't playing John Connor he would be nice for that, but I'm placing my bet for Jake Gyllenhaal!!! he's young enough for the role

David on Aug 1, 2008

63

David, kill youself now. You're way too stupid to live.

foxy on Aug 1, 2008

64

Keanu Reeves isn't a bad actor, it's just that his role in those Bill and Ted movies cause him to get roles as stupid people, thus making him unlikeable in quite a few movies.

Give the guy a chance.

Booze Zombie on Aug 1, 2008

65

Whenever I think of Keanu trying to act 'dangerous', all I see is him taking a single huff out of a cigarette, throwing it down, and stepping on it while looking like an insomniac on crack.
That's not Spike.

Rob on Aug 1, 2008

66

When I think of a live action cowboy bebop movie. I think of Johnny Depp playing spike.

Justin on Aug 1, 2008

67

Insomniac on crack….that is freekin hilarious…..but really…. Keanu needs to step out of these type of roles and get into some pure, real and deep emotional range! I mean……make me feel its real Keanu and stand up for some academy cheer!!!
Rachxoxoxo

Rach on Aug 2, 2008

68

"Can we give him a chance in Cowboy Bebop?"

No.
No, we cannot.

MRL on Aug 2, 2008

69

f^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ck! why not john cusack?

nooooooooo on Aug 2, 2008

70

What's with all the irrational Keanu support?

He catches crap because he's an incredibly wooden actor. Yeah, he looks okay as Klaatu. But Klaatu is *supposed to be* uptight with inhuman emotions, so his wooden acting suits the role.

Not Paul Shaffer on Aug 2, 2008

71

I don't care who plays who.

No live-action movie needs to be made. Period. Squabbling over who plays what role is pointless.

NO LIVE-ACTION MOVIE SHOULD BE MADE OF BEBOP.

Lil on Aug 2, 2008

72

I'll keep it going -

Johnny Depp's too old.
Keanu has absolutely 0 swagger.
Jake Gyllenhal looks like a monkey - go watch Bubble Boy again.
Cusack is a little too old and doesn't have the baddassery (my word).

As much as Jeffrey Donovan blows them all out of the water, I know I can get some agreement on this sentiment from the realm of nerddom -

Bruce Campbell as Jet or I walk!

Byrd on Aug 2, 2008

73

"NO LIVE-ACTION MOVIE SHOULD BE MADE OF BEBOP."

Eh, I don't see why not. The live-action Akira is a potential disaster, and the live-action Dragonball was doomed from the start, but Bebop should be a pretty easy translation. It could work particularly well if they get a highly-stylized director. Robert Rodriguez, maybe. Get him to stop making stupid ass Red Sonja remakes and Tarantino-fueled intentionally crappy movies and get him back to his roots.

Not Paul Shaffer on Aug 3, 2008

74

Noo.

Don't spoil this anime masterpiece, please.

Vanechan on Aug 3, 2008

75

Stephen Dorff as Spike
Bruce Campbell as Jet

There's your movie right there

Spike785 on Aug 3, 2008

76

keanu Reeves is an amazing guy
i think he is perfect to play spike and quit the crap guys he deserves this part jeez

dino_robot on Aug 3, 2008

77

Hell NO!!!

Keanu is too old to play Spike! and… he can't act!

C. on Aug 4, 2008

78

I think Keanu for this part is good. Not a perfect fit, agreed. He is a little too old for Spike, #77, and he isn't a high calibre actor, but he has made leaps and strides in recent years.
I wonder if you saw A Scanner Darkly, which was very creative and entertaining especially since it had Robert Downey, Jr. and Woody Harrelson in it. I think it's good that Keanu has this kind of ambition to keep doing these varied roles despite the bad rap he gets for his acting. Props to Keanu and a big ol' go fuck yourselves to the rest of you. Maybe you're upset that he's famous and you're not. Either way, I look forward to this and The Day the Earth Stood Still.

JL on Aug 5, 2008

79

he can't act, cause all he does is act…… and he doesnt have a good life or an emotional range within that life, to bring into all these B grade back to back roles…
Rachoxox

Rach on Aug 5, 2008

80

Keanu CANNOT pull off Spike he cant act, but im with the rest of the crowd when i say A LIVE ACTION BEBOP IS AN ABOMINATION AND SHOULD NEVER BE MADE! But if they are going forward with it get a better actor, someone who can be a believable Spike, as cliche as it sound having recently watched Fight Club and Snatch i think Brad Pitt could pull it off. I think he would do quite well and then i saw someone mention Jeffrey Donovan and i think he would be absolutely perfect though i dont know about his martial arts ability. I really hope this project dies just like the Eva on did.

Thanatos on Aug 5, 2008

81

Tahmoh Penikett as Spike

I like Bruce Campbell as Jet

Cymon on Aug 6, 2008

82

Keanu should get married and be happy and love his wife heaps…….and then he would be able to act…..cause he will be all warm and fuzzy instead of dark and demonised.
The poor guys has been through so much, but haven't we all……..time to move on and get happy Keanu and bring it to the screen.
Sorry, but I cant watch him in any of these robotic films.
I mean, I was at the Street Kings premiere and I had to walk out.
Its just not the 'true' Keanu, all this darkness that he is portraying. \
Keanu to me, will always be the cute surfer, tanned and healthy and hot in Point Break….not these pointless, unrealistic hereos that were first a drawing and or someones paranoid nightmare(Matrix)!
Each to their own opinion however, but in my opinion….Keanu is yet to become the man he truly is and this sort of B grade film just doesnt reach the league that he needs to rise up 2!
Reach Keanu, dont fall into averageness again just because it is safe!!!!!
Rachooxox

Rach on Aug 6, 2008

83

Wait, Keanu in The Day the Earth Stood Still is playing Klaatu instead of Gort? When I found out he was attached to the movie I thought someone had finally recognized him for the robot he is.

Also, Keanu as Spike sounds about as fun as driving nails through my eyeballs.

readabook on Aug 7, 2008

84

Keanu is the most underrated actor , It's all rep in the biz, Keanu is not the first actor to struggle first out of the gates in the begining of his career , His rep will never change because people are ignorant but i have seen all his work and he is great in alot of his movies early on there was growing pains , The Matrix masterpeice i don't blame keanu for the sequals i blame producer Joel silver and the sister's Directors for that , Speed Classic and A Scanner DArkly special , His collaboration with River Phoenix is magic and Devil's He stand toe to toe with Pacino, sur perhaps he should have made (1995) Heat that would have helped i think Deniro could have added something to his craft and helped his credibilitiy, It's all rep but to me the work stands out and critic Gene Sieskel before he past said good things about Keanu and his work in "little Buddha " i feel Keanu Grew up but the rep will never change i'ts a whixh hunt at this point

jade on Aug 7, 2008

85

who gives a toss what he has been in, gone in, done before or even after, by the looks of it……..its not good enough and he is not in the lime light for being a philanthropist either, he is just not inspiring the way Bono, Bill Gates, Angelina etc are…its just boring really! And if you aren't in the A +++ league, then you may as well never have gone to Hollywood in the first place. Win at your chosen game or get lost ……or shall I say lost-er!
Rachxoxo

Rach on Aug 8, 2008

86

keanu is a gr8 actor….i wonder why people say that he cannot act….he has ptrayed so many different roles and he is perfect for the role of spike….the both look alike….i think keanu should work more n choose mayb a negative role….for a change u see….

Nishant on Aug 9, 2008

87

I'ts all reputation in the biz , people being negative towerds Keanu has and always be , He's not the first actor to struggle first out of the gates but he's been crucified for more than others , Theres actors actress that have oscars are nominations and there not great Cathrine zeta -jones , Queen Latifa .
It's all Reputation because the work stands out , yes he has a poker face but alot is internal he has come along way but for me i rather see Keanu than any other actor because he's not fake like most of the industry Anglina goth one day mothe hen the next , keanu has always been the same and he is a philanthropist he just doesn't have to tell everyone he gives alot of his money away and has even said that " money is meaningless"

sar on Aug 9, 2008

88

Reputation is definitely not on Keanu's side and he is loooooong out of the gates I am afraid. Like he has been in 60plus films.
His work stands out because he is able to physically take on a role but I believe that he is emotionless because he doesn't believe in true love……alas why he is the only man in Hollywood not married.
As far as I can tell and have been told Keanu uses/pays women for sex and takes out allll his baggage on them and then moves onto the next one without an incline of love or respect for a commitment…..hence why he is emotionless in his films as well as in real life.
'Money is meaningless', I am sure for a guy that works the Hollywood system and kisses industry ass while he tops up his bank account to over $400 million. It's sad and its pathetic and his manager is even more so.
Being a philanthropist is very important in todays world, because as the rich get richer and the poor get poorer……people are dying and starving because of this sin of greed.
Keanu doesn't care because he is too busy feeling sorry for himself…cause his baby and girlfriend died…….as he he picked making Matrix in Australia and leaving them….OVER….caring for them! So in fact alllll his Matrix money is indeed blood money! But instead of giving that money away and correcting his 'bad choice'….he takes it out on others and hides in the shadows with his demons and the women he uses for sex.
The guy is a loser, its best to face the facts world. He is like hellbound for sure.
But feel free…..go give him your money at the box office so he can get richer and become a dirty old man……..and think geeeezzz yeharrrrr, you can help create that in this already corrupt world!
YAHOOOOOO…..NOT!!!!!
Rachxooxox

Rach on Aug 10, 2008

89

Wow, Rach that was brutal…ly honest. Thank you. Now no one is allowed to say he's a good actor.

Nettle on Aug 10, 2008

90

The only people that say that he is a good actor is those that feel sorry for him. 'Pitying' someone can earn millions! And Keanu is good at making people feel sorry for him….thats how he gets most of his female into bed….then he throws them some loose change……
As for the industry folk….they think he is angelic cause he kisses ass, but then behind closed doors he doesnt give a shit….as long as he can scull his expensive wines and buy $50K prostitues now and again while he gets off on porn!
Rachxoxoxox

Rach on Aug 10, 2008

91

look, this is not supposed to be a movie. They are taking a big risk by making it into a movie. This is going to be hard as crap to make live action. I am a huge fan, and i know too much stuff is going to be really fake looking. 90% is going to be CG. So whats the point? Keanu Reeves cannot act. He will be a horrible Spike. And i can only imagine who will be faye. I think the only thing they may get right is Ein. So yeah, this movie is going to be horrible.

Stormy on Aug 14, 2008

92

jim sturgess for spike?

teehee on Aug 14, 2008

93

keanu reeves is a freaking bobblehead. there is no way he could ever be as cool as spike. spike has more awesome in his pinky than keanu reeves will ever have in his entire life.

leanne on Aug 17, 2008

94

cowboy bebop was truly and awesome series with so much depth to it…I am extremely distressed to hear that fox and keanu reeves are the main names behind its movie form…I see no subtlety in Keanu Reeves' acting and Fox is just there to make a bunch of money. I am doubtful that the movie will be anywhere near as good as the cartoon series. so so so sad …please change the people behind this movie.

Barry on Aug 17, 2008

95

Keanu Reeve = poo poo head

Sapan on Aug 17, 2008

96

Has anyone actually seen cowboy bebop?!?! how could you even think about making a live action movie about it with Keanu Reeves? I bet he has never seen an episode in his life or has even heard about the anime. I will be boycotting this movie, unless they get a better cast. FOR SHAME on you FOX, bunch of money grubbing jerks.

Jeff on Aug 17, 2008

97

Rachel you are a psycho ignorant idiot

jade on Aug 19, 2008

98

Rachel who do you like paris hilton ,britney ,lindsey and angelina for someone who doesn't like keanu you sure have gone psycho in saying so for me keanu has good qualities that i like and i understand there is bashers but you really dont know what you are saying , Hate is baggage and keanu will go on making movies if you like it or not so take a midol

kate on Aug 19, 2008

99

If Reeves could in fact pull it off, it could be the performance and revival of his career as a credible drama actor (which he was in the early late 80s to early 90s).

Suffice it to say, I feel Reeves is completely wrong for the role. Though he could pull off the physical aspects, he's still too old for the part. They need someone in their late 20s early 30s to be sure. Then on the other hand, a more mature actor may be the ticket to pulling off Spike's world weary swagger and charming dangerous charisma.

I for one would opt for someone like Ryan Gosling. He's perfect for Spike. Tall, rough features and small eyes. He's got the physical quality and the acting chops to boot. Proving a romancer in The Notebook and a dangerous force in The Believer and a brooding presence in Half Nelson.

Vera Farmiga is perfect for Julia (Just check her out at the end of The Departed in that black trenchcoat—spitting image!)

Amanda Bynes or someone like her for Ed is inspired but unlikely. I'm going to have to go with Ellen Page. She's perfect.

Faye is next to impossible to cast. They'd better go with someone unknown, though it will be hard to sell it that way. Rhona Mitra or a more in shape Anne Hathaway would be decent (though none of those actresses I feel have the chops to play Faye. If Angelina Jolie hadn't starred in every other action film for the last six years, she'd be good, but she's too well known and familiar to play the role.

For Jet, they should cast somebody like Ving Rhames.

Cowboy Bebop was one of the greatest achievements of popular culture and art of the last decade or so, in any medium. If Hollywood screws it up, its likely as a fan I'll never forgive them. However, that doesn't mean I'm not looking forward to it.

Zeiram on Aug 19, 2008

100

Each to their own opinion in what knowledge they have observed/acquired about the subject of Keanu! Shining a light on the truth can hurt, but alas it stands as is!!!!! So back off!
I 'hope' Keanu improves in his career and deals with his emotions, so that his work shines more than it has done, same goes with his personal life.
But alas this type of role isnt going to help his cause….IN MY OPINION!!!!!!!
Whats Midol?
Is that a drug that makes the rich richer while turning the human race into non opinionated zombies?
I rest my case!
Rachxoxox

Rach on Aug 20, 2008

101

rachel get a life please , and the real boblehead actor is Gorge clooney , Midol is for p.m.s which is for crazy smelly fat cow women that don't know what they are saying why don't you try acting out , it's pretty stupid to write a million comments bashing keanu when you can go feed the poor do something with your life and talking about emotions all these people think there shit don't stink look in the mirrior everyone all of you sux thats why Keanu is a movie star and the rest of you are nobody's

jade on Aug 20, 2008

102

There are so many better casting decisions then Keanu. and i agree, fox is probably just backing this to make money off of an already awesome franchise.

although i agree that they couldve casted worst, i just dont see keanu as a cool headed guy like spike spiegel. and knowing the movie industry, i know theyre gonna have a fucking terrible soundtrack compared to the series

Jason on Aug 20, 2008

103

jade stop popping pills and get a real opinion that people actaully can learn something from…. and while you are there make sure you get a neck collar for the hound from hell role that you have appointed yourself to.
Rachxoxo

Rach on Aug 21, 2008

104

Arrrgh, this film shouldn't be made FULL STOP!

All this talk about physical attributes and action skills and Keanu not being lanky enough or lanky enough is stupid - Spike is a fictional character and a very stylised one at that, so how could they really find a human that resembles him? I can see what a disaster this could be - hopefully they don't base everything on the film (such as costume - which I can already see becoming a tack-o-rama fiesta if so) it would be more suited if it was more the story and plot they base the film upon. Its not going to be a surprise if Fox makes a real flop out of this - it definately will not do the original justice.

Also I never thought Keanu would have so many fans considering all he does is stare into space like Mischa Barton - all those who think he is so great really should go rent out "Much Ado About Nothing".

The bigger question should be who the hell will play Faye??

boba on Aug 22, 2008

105

Lee Pace should place Spike. Hands down, all seriousness. The man is a chameleon. Watch Pushing Daisies. Now watch The Good Shepherd. Now watch Infamous. The man is A CHAMELEON. He has plays a bit younger than he is, and, physically, he's perfect for the role. Unimaginably tall, lanky, angular, fit. The nose, the smirk. Dye that boy's hair green and GET HIM IN THIS MOVIE.

I think the cast should be 'B'-listers and unknowns. Stop forcing Hollywood Star/letts into roles they don't fit just to bring a bigger box office draw. Get some weird androgynous kid to play Ed, the WEIRD ANDROGYNOUS KID.

That said, and though I recoiled instinctively at the idea, Anne Hathaway as Faye would not be terrible casting. She's very sexy, but she can be sort of a goof and a spazz. She's not married to an idea of always looking a certain way on screen, and that's better than, say, Angelina, who I don't think would be suited to Faye's more mad-cap qualities, not to mention the fact that she's too old. MOST of the Hollywood players people have been talking about for these roles are too old. Including Keanu.

Though that is HARDLY the biggest reason not to cast him.

This movie is a bad idea, and this is why: It wasn't made five years ago. If, five years ago, they had gotten a team of artists together to make this movie- actors with a passion for the project, writers who were addicted to the show and understood the genre, and a director with vision- Julie Taymor, David Fincher, Cameron Crowe, Guy Richie, Robert Rodriguez…. But that's not what's happening.

Fox is letting Keanu Reeves' manager jump on the 'we're turning serious anime films into blockbuster hits' bandwagon. There was a rapid influx of superhero movies that did extremely well. They're going to hope the same thing happens here. But whereas John Fevreau, a die hard fan and extremely passionate filmmaker who loves BOTH mediums equally, took Iron Man to a new level of quality for superhero flicks, I don't think Cowboy Bebop- though God knows the material more than deserves it- will be given the same treatment. It makes me sad.

awerats on Aug 26, 2008

106

Joseph Gordon-Levitt gets my vote, great young actor, same age as Spike, even looks just like him.

http://fs1.us.cyworld.com/data3/2006/07/19/058/1153368458006680_file.jpg

http://img2.timeinc.net/ew/dynamic/imgs/080226/Joseph-Gordon-Levitt_l.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/xofhmgirl/R-ocp7B72UI/AAAAAAAABxo/hPqrxzBG5RM/s400/claudia-schiffer-gq-07.jpg

Baz on Aug 28, 2008

107

Okay, here's the deal with Keanu. He is, indeed, a poor actor. I know acting - I have a master's degree in it, have performed off-broadway, regional, etc., and have coached many, many actors, including a couple who've been on Broadway. I adore the craft of acting and can say without a shadow of a doubt that Keanu Reaves is a bad actor. This doesn't mean he shouldn't be a star, though. Stardom and acting talent don't always go hand-in-hand. He's good looking and kinda interesting, but is no actor.

Someone blamed his performances on typecasting. Nope. He has had a wonderful range of opportunities - it's just that he does the same thing over and over. He blocks. He holds his breath. He's just far too conscious of himself - and it's okay. Many actors suffer through that, and I guess if I were him I wouldn't be too concerned about changing anything either. It's too bad, though, because he probably has the potential to do something quite wonderful. Aaaaahhh…if only he'd allow me to coach him for a while.

Anyway…it's nothing personal, Keanu. I still watch your stuff. Just wish you'd delve a bit deeper into the craft is all.

S.

steve on Aug 30, 2008

108

105, your choice for Spike is unbelievable. YOU should have done the casting. Lee Pace would be so perfect for him… for any of you guys who don't know what he looks like, go here:

http://handson.provocateuse.com/images/photos/lee_pace_01.jpg

As for Faye, I'd pick Kate Beckinsale. She's definitely got the face and the body. And come on, she's such a badass.

But seriously, guys, you never know… Keanu might actually be able to pull this off. Stop whining about his personal life… oh, and to all of you who keep saying "ZOMG WTF HE CAN'T ACT", lay off. He's not a "plank", he's just often cast in very detached roles because it's what he's best known for! Keanu is an ACTOR, which means he's going to BE whoever he's cast as. In other words, he's not going to act like Neo in Bebop, he's going to act like Spike. Just try to have an open mind, because Fox isn't gonna listen to us, no matter how much we complain. -.-

Rynn on Aug 30, 2008

109

"the bigger the budget, the greater it'll be" that's probably the most foolish thing I've read today. There are dozens of movies that come out every year with huge budgets and they're absolute crap. Keanu is a horribly flat actor and I'm really surprised by all the people saying how perfect he would be for this role. Spike is a very subtle character, so a lot of his personality comes out through his small expressions and body language, something Keanu is horrible at doing. He couldn't even cough realistically in Constantine. Infact, use that movie as an example. In the Hellblazer comics John Constantine was full of personality, almost like a dark rundown Spike in someways. The smooth yet reluctant kind of character. All that vanished once it was translated to the movie. Keanu kept none of that personality, instead turning him into a boring cardboard cut out with a huge budget backing him up. This movie really should never be made. I hope they at least get Ron Perlman to be Jet, that would be perfect casting. *end rant*

Wage on Sep 3, 2008

110

Oh and P.S. for Faye Valentine it should be someone like Ziyi Zhang, just look at her in 2046, perfect, and she's an amazing actor. You guys do realise Faye is Chinese right? She's from Singapore, so I don't know why everyone's suggesting American/caucasian actors for her.

Wage on Sep 3, 2008

111

109 - Why would Ron Perlman be perfect casting?, he hasn't even got the look or facial features of Jet, he's just big.

110- You don't have to be Chinese to be born in Singapore, remember cowboy bebop is set in the future and has characters from all races throughout the series. Faye Valentine isn't even a Chinese name.

baz on Sep 4, 2008

112

i agree with #15, he just isnt expressive enough to pull off. I really cant imagine Keanu in that role. Sure he has a similar appearance but just at his roles in The Matrix, Constantine, A Scanner Darkly, and Bram Stoker's Dracula - all the same emotionless, slow talking performance with breaks in odd places.
My vote, if it has to be a well known actor, would be Jonny Depp. He's got the range and he's got the look, and I think its a roll that would interest him.

Sam on Sep 5, 2008

113

Keanu as Spike isn't bad. Brad Pitt would be better though. I would take this news with a grain of salt though, because look at the Dark Knight. God knows how many rumors were floating around about who was going to be the Joker. Even if Reeves is cast, why count him out? He may do really well. No one thought Ledger would be a good Joker at all, and he kicked that role's ass.

I wonder how/if they'll do his hair. I think as far as Spike's hair goes, they shouldn't try to get it as poofy as it is in the anime. They should go for realism. The only character who's hair needs to keep with the anime is Vicious.

Alex on Sep 5, 2008

114

Brad Pitt as Spike hahahah. Depp would be ideal for good looks and personality for Spike but would probably be too lazy to learn martial arts

joe bloggs on Sep 5, 2008

115

Keanu Reeves is a horrible choice for Spike. Keanu did a good Neo because he practically created Neo. There really was no Neo before Keanu which means that the Neo they wrote about could be adapted. Brad Pitt is a worse choice, as is Johnny Depp. In fact, I don't think you could get much worse than Johnny Depp who is equivalent to a girl, compared to how manly and nonchalant Spike is.

Why do we need Hollywood actors? Why can't they choose a tall, good-looking Jewish man who is a good actor, but unknown?

If you make this movie a Hollywood movie, it will be ruined.

Broggi on Sep 6, 2008

116

Joseph Gordon Levitt might make a good Spike… if they can make him look a little more… tough?

I also enjoy his acting, so who knows? He's already rumored to be playing Tetsuo, isn't he?

Broggi on Sep 6, 2008

117

As long as Yoko Kanno does the music, I'd go see it. Even if all the actors are terribly cast for thier roles, Kanno's score will make the entire movie worth watching.

omgshoes on Sep 6, 2008

118

See, I'm dying inside at the idea of them making a Bebop film, but with Reeves, there is a little hope.
Appearence wise, the idea that he's too old is ridiculous, for starters, Reeves looks brilliant for his 40 (I think he's 40), and Spike's age is completely irrelevant to the plot. Keanu rocked the suits-and-smokes look in Constantine, so I think he can pull it off in this. The only problem is the hair…
As for acting ability? Well, it'll be an action movie…

I think I'm just relieved. I was worried they were going to cast a "oh-he's-so-hot-right-now" tool. All things considered, it could be a lot worse.

I'm more worried about Faye, to be honest… If they cast Angela Jolie or Jessica Alba, I WILL be throwing numerous tantrums.

yaface on Sep 8, 2008

119

Johnny Depp as spike? Brad Pitt as Spike?! Neither of them look or act at all like Spike. Johnny Depp is waaaayy too old for it, and does not look the part. He's a good actor, but does not fit the role. Same with with Brad Pitt, he's a great actor, but does not fit the role. Why is everyone focusing on big name actors, that's the worst way to cast this. I'd agree with what another poster said and go with Lee Pace, he seems like he'd do a good job, and he's not a huge hollywood actor either. And Ron Perlman would be great because he DOES look like Jett, and IS a good actor. He has that perfect demeanor of a guy who tries to act tough but is actually a softy when pushed. Yusaku Matsuda is who Spike was mainly based off of, he was a very famous Japanese actor. You can see in his movies how he had that perfect balance of cool smooth one moment, and tripping over his own feet the next. The actor who plays Spike has to be able to get that across. You can see how similar he is here (in the red shirt), although he's more on the serious side in this.

http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=nXuL0phlRjY

But by the end of it all, this movie should just not be made, like so many comic/cartoon remakes.

Wage on Sep 9, 2008

120

Hey 111 are you retarded or have you just never watched the series? In My Funny Valentine, the doctor who is in charge of taking care of Faye is the one who names her when she wakes up. This is because her medical records, birth certificate etc were destroyed/not found.

Keanu Reeves is a block of wood, there are no two ways around it, he cannot act, give lines or anything even remotely close to something of Spike's calibre. Spike is awesome, Reeves is not.

Johnny Depp could do Spike easily especially with that Capt Jack swagger and he could pull off looking like 27.

Bruce Campbell for Jet, hands down

Travis on Sep 9, 2008

121

120- Doesnt mean that she is still oriental and has to be played by a sinagpore/chinese actress
Bruce Campbell is too old, overweight and not tall enough to play Jet.

Don't know why Ron Perlman's name keeps popping up to play Jet, he's too old aswell even older Bruce Campbell. People are forgetting that Jet is meant to be 40 and Spike 27

Ron Perlman doesn't even look like Jet. Compare the pics

http://www.geocities.com/tokyo_vigilante5k/jet14.jpg

http://www.shadow-writer.co.uk/images/RonPerlmanPublicityPic.jpg

Now this fanboy has got the right look


http://lh4.ggpht.com/_wQd7BOwu2DQ/SES2JQb2dBI/AAAAAAAAIsA/fKWg78aiTTA/IMG_0603.jpg

sm on Sep 10, 2008

122

Everyone should see Depp playing Agent Sands in Once Apon a time in Mexico. He plays a corrupt FBI agent but plays the role with character like Spike. Dark, funny charming, cool and violent.

sm on Sep 10, 2008

123

Heres a name no ones mentioned for spike : mark dacascos

He's one of the few who can act and has excellent martial arts skills.

http://z.hubpages.com/u/224274_f260.jpg

kyle on Sep 10, 2008

124

To 121, you need to look at that Ron Perlman image again.(not the best photoshopping in the world, but it gets the point across.) http://i38.tinypic.com/15s30ci.jpg

Oh and the fanboy picture does not show up.

wage on Sep 10, 2008

125

NOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Why must people ruin perfectly good Animes and videogames by making rubbish live actions!

Liam on Sep 10, 2008

126

for THe LOVE of The Great Spirit that awaits us all
KEEP KEANU or how ever the hell you spell it Reeves out of this movie
PLEASE OR I WILL BE FORCED TO START A BOYCOTT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I love this cartoon

Jeremy on Sep 10, 2008

127

124 - i love your photoshop skillz XD <3

i'm with lee pace to. guy is amazing actor i every movie different person.. even his body language changes… not my perfect spike face but it'll do.
my perfect spike looks kinda like this http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/2986/1190350838271ei3.jpg

R. on Sep 11, 2008

128

Keanu Reaves is an amazing actor, always in choice movies, but he would be a horrible Spike Spiegel, he's too slow, not tall nor slanky enough either. I think they would have better success at keeping it close to the actual show by finding a different actor, maybe a newer or lesser known one. Now, if they want to make tons of money and only have an okay movie, stick with Keanu.

Krista on Sep 11, 2008

129

i agree totally with u up there. i don't hate keanu. BUT SERIOUSLY, he cannot pull off a Spike.
Johnny Depp, anybody?
always seemed like such an easy pick for me.

achtzehn on Sep 15, 2008

130

as much as I love Johnny i think he's to old for spike :<
and maybe he is cool but phisically they're not a match.

i'm gona say Lee Pace. He's tall, skinny, with amazing voice and actor skils. he probably playd every possible character and he is different every time. even he's body language changes.
so yeah.. i'm staing with lee even though his face is not as regular and spikeish, he does have something cool in apparance.

Keanu… i'd love him in my "own private idaho" and well yeah he was neo but as a spike? he's just to serious… and he always talk so stiff…

Kumi on Sep 15, 2008

131

124- Perlman is too old and short to play Jet. He needs to be much taller than Spike who is already 6ft tall. Jet is suppose to be 37 years old and psycially fit as he use to be cop

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_wQd7BOwu2DQ/SES2JQb2dBI/AAAAAAAAIsA/fKWg78aiTTA/IMG_0603.jpg

vv on Sep 17, 2008

132

When I first heard about this movie, I had mixed feelings. I mean, Cowboy Bebop has the potential to be a great film if done right. With Keanu on board…I have some hopes for this movie. I just hope this film does justice to the Cowboy Bebop franchise.

A Hellsing live-action movie would be AWESOME.

Elizabeth Reyes on Sep 19, 2008

133

i cant wait to see what comes of this. this is one of those animes that just wont leave you alone, even if you dont watch anime regularly. and this may also be the door that opens to many people as to the culture of anime…lets see what fox can do shall we?

john on Sep 21, 2008

134

and as for a cast:
i would like to see keanu do spike
and definatly Beau M. Billingslea(the voice of jet in the dub) would be a great pick for jet
and as for faye…..jessica alba..hands down
and ed…well any kid would really work

john on Sep 21, 2008

135

Jessica Alba? I will boycott the movie.

I am still adamant about my opinion: keep a Hollywood cast as far away from this as is physically possible.

Unknown actors is the way to go… we want the emphasis to be on the characters and the movie, not on the actors in the movie.

Keanu Reeves is not a good actor and neither is Jessica Alba.

Broggi on Sep 21, 2008

136

Keanu Reeves isn't a terrible actor… but i don't want him touching anything that already has a huge fan base that is going to criticize him, he won't do it justice. Plus he looks a bit too old now.

Jessica Alba has never done a good movie, if she was in it, it would be a guaranteed suckfest.

Let's list her sucky movies, shall we?

The Love Guru
Fantastic Four
Awake
The eye
Good Luck Chuck
Honey
(skipping Sin City cause some like it)
Into The Blue

That's just about every movie she's been in since 2000.

xghjxj on Sep 22, 2008

137

enjoy your fail, FOX. Keanu Reeves is NOT Spike Spiegel… That's as dumb a move as casting Vin Diesel for Jet Black. -_-;;

panuru on Sep 26, 2008

138

Okay, so I've always wanted to see a live-action version of Cowboy Bebop. This is my favorite show of all-time, and I constantly have to explain its genius to others since most people I know don't like animation. The animated film didn't do the show justice, just being a long version of one of the few less-consequential episodes. This could easily be the best action film ever or the biggest opportunity wasted. With Keanu Reeves, I'm saying the latter.

The story is so well-told (so many cinematic devices), has so much depth (we care about the characters, which is rare in action), and the set is infinite (since it's science fiction). But I've always wanted to see an "unknown," maybe someone from a martial arts background, play Spike. There are too many obvious choices with the main cast. There are too many Hollywood things that they could do to this. Keanu Reeves is one of them.

I went through the actors mentioned here and thought about them. I think Joseph Gordon-Levitt could work if he is willing to get the martial arts training. Same with DiCaprio, who I think of as being one of best of the A-list. Maybe Ben Whishaw or Jake Gyllenhaal…(Beau Billingslea would make a great Jet, as would Bruce Campbell or Ron Perlman.) Please, though, just finding a tall, good-looking Jewish man with martial arts skills would be easier and cheaper than putting Reeves on a diet and hiring stunt doubles.

If they give this to someone who understands and loves the show, this could make George Lucas look like Ed Wood. If they forget that this should be pulp-arthouse-noir, it's just a star vehicle floating through cinespace.

***Done preaching to choir***

Shucks~Howdy on Sep 30, 2008

139

okay. i love keanu, but not so much for his acting. and trust me, the role of spike will need acting.

I agree with an unknown. There is such a huge fanbase for this show that there doesn't really need to be star-power to sell it. It's still safe to go with an unknown.

And… I think I know of a good unknown that can do the part.

Aaron Lazar.
http://www.aaronlazar.com/
He's a broadway actor that's just started his way into film. He's been in a couple of comcast commercials and was an extra in New Amsterdam. I've seen him in Les Misérables, so acting, yup. Way up there in his "can do" list.

Anyways, he fits the character. Has the same body structure and athletic, as well as the skills to bring spike to life!

Take a look at his gallery! There's a photo in there at a bar… ZOMG it's frickin' Spike!!!

He's the perfect candidate!

Key on Oct 2, 2008

140

Terrible…. just terrible, I'd be like if they cast George Bush to star as Barrak Obama in a movie, complete opposites, just being "barely similar" won't make for a good movie, I'd almost prefer they voice over (using Spike's voice actor) while using a guy who just looks more like him. Because you can't shove any dildo into the role of Spike Speagle, no matter "what" he played.

Forte on Oct 3, 2008

141

Those guys Lee and Aaron Lazar def fit.

I am the only one who thinks Edward Norton belongs in this film?

Nzr on Oct 5, 2008

142

Edward Norton is a great actor, but I am convinced that this movie will be infinitely better if it stays clear from Hollywood.

All they need are great, unknown actors and a kickass writing team.

You want to sell the work… the movie… not the actor.


Personally, I don't think Ed Norton fits very well in here… but he's still a great actor.

Broggi on Oct 5, 2008

143

It doesn't ,atter if Reeves is the best actor in the fucking world (He's not.) They need to get someone who is the same age as the character. Spike is 27. 27! I don't think Keanu can pull that off now that he's OVER 40!

BayMustDie on Oct 6, 2008

144

Keanu SHOULD NEVER PLAY SPIKE! I think Jared Leto should play Spike. Go watch Requiem For a Dream and see for yourself. My other choices would be Josh Hartnett or Casey Affleck (he was pretty badass in "Gone Baby Gone". Who's with me?!

Actor in Iowa on Oct 9, 2008

145

Keanu would be interesting…
But I think Lee Pace would be a better choice… Tall, lanky, expressive eyebrows…. YUH.

Sparky on Oct 13, 2008

146

Someone else that I just thought of to play Spike could be Matthew Fox. He's tall, lanky, and expressive eyebrows (you'd know what I mean if you watch lost) and his voice is pretty close. The only downfall is his age, but it all depends on where the Cowboy Bebop timeline in the movie is taking place.

Actor in Iowa on Oct 13, 2008

147

Didn't Fox already make a live action Bebop? Wasn't it called Firefly or Serenity or something?

Seriously, they should be calling the production crew for Firefly back specifically for this. The Old west and Asian mixes where mirrors of the Bebop world. And of course Joss Whedon is an amazing writer and already has the feel for that type of world down. Humor with some serious story together. They really would just need to recast Firefly and be set. (Not saying I don't like the cast, that show was awesome)

I'm not to keen on Reeves as Spike. Echoing what others said he's never seemed energized enough. And in everything I've seen him in, he always seems rather dumb or thick. If he says "whoa" I'll be likely to throw my popcorn at the screen. Lesser to unknowns would be better for the whole cast.

And yes, Yoko Kanno has to be involved. The music in that series tied the whole feel together. She's also one of the best.

But it's fox so who knows what we'll be stuck with. :/

AMgirl on Oct 14, 2008

148

i say bring back the anime man i mean live action would be cool and all but bringing back the series would be way better man.

hector on Oct 21, 2008

149

this is gonna sound wierd but i like keanu reeves despite his horrible acting.

but if they cast him as spike spiegle they are all going to hell!

im not very helpful though,i cant picture anyone kick ass enough to play spike.

jay on Oct 26, 2008

150

NO!!!!! THIS CAN'T HAPPEN!
the live action idea is bad enough.
finding someone good enough to play spike??
that'll never happen.
and why does it have to be friggin live actionnn?

soraya18 on Oct 27, 2008

151

I can't say I'm happy with the idea of a live action movie.
I'd really miss the English cast voices from the show.
And Keanu Reeves doesn't fit the part. If they're going to do this, I suggest looking for someone new; an actor no one's familiar with.

And yes, if they're going to bring it back, bring back the series.

Matt on Nov 8, 2008

152

yeah we dont need another freaking live action there are making every thing live action now and that sucks balls!!

hector on Nov 8, 2008

153

http://images.tabulas.com/104339/m/bebop.jpg

I'd really love that spike were played by johnny depp, would be interesting.
keanu reeves just doen't have that "that"

An on Nov 9, 2008

154

Okay before anyone says "I already said that" i only read up to post 25 or so and i have to say something cause you people are retarted and pissing me off. First of all Cowboy Bebop is the greates anime series ever made. So why re-make something that is already great? Are they remaking the movie for those who don't watch anime? To that i say too bad for those people they'll have to miss out on this great series or watch the anime. So there suppost to re-make the series into a movie and why would you try to remake something that is already perfect. You know the movie will not live up to the standards of the anime meaning that it won't be as good. And as far as Keanu Reeves goes i don't think he has enough acting talent to play a role such as Spike's. Spike is way too cool of a character to ruin. Just leave the show as it is and it you want to see Cowboy Bebop watch it how it was intended. Oh yeah by the way that side by side picture looks nothing like spike and you people who think it does look like him you all are dumb.

Hollywood is going to ruin this wonderful series.

The Boss on Nov 9, 2008

155

As much as i love Keanu Reeves (actually i hate the man) Spike speagal needs to be played by someone who isn't fat.

Thats like getting Robin Williams to play Desert Punk.

Doesnt fit.

King Donut on Nov 11, 2008

156

Keanu reaves aside,

does anybody else think that Ron Perlman would make THE PERFECT JET?

Jason on Nov 13, 2008

157

I reallly hope he stays with this, I have actually grown to completely think of keanu as the live action spike, I think he could really pull off the role as he'll get so into spike and his feelings and relate to them, especially the stuff with Julia. All I can say for those who think hes the wrong guy, at least its not Mark Wahlberg.

Bex on Nov 20, 2008

158

Don't look at it as a lesser of two evils. I'd rather them not make this movie at all than allow Hollywood to abort it on the big screen in front of us, for all to see.

Broggi on Nov 21, 2008

159

Keanu looks the part, but his voice is just so damn emotionless… Get Steven Blum for the vioce and I'll be happy.

lolcast on Dec 3, 2008

160

I think this guy looks just like Spike. He is tall, skinny, and has the hair and the face.

http://img26.picoodle.com/img/img26/3/12/3/f_l7dfcb3ab07m_5675d6d.jpg

Fortissimo on Dec 3, 2008

161

too bad george clooney is too old because i think he would be perfect for the role. i mean his character, Danny Ocean from the Ocean movies seems similar to how spike would act. this is just my opinion of course.

-SX- on Dec 7, 2008

162

If not Reeves, then how about Orlando Bloom as Spike? I think he'd do pretty well.

And what about Tom Sizemore as Jet?

I agree with the person that suggested Kate Beckinsale as Faye. She does resemble Faye a bit in her Role as Selene in Underworld and she can certainly nail Faye's attitude. But most of all, it's cuz I'm a slavering Kate fan. ^_^

LCB on Dec 17, 2008

163

I'm a Keanu fan but I have to agree that he's too old to play Spike.
Same case with Pitt, Clooney, Damon etc.
Better put in someone fresh faced to play Spike. Keanu can play the bad guy in the movie.

Lucy on Dec 17, 2008

164

Adrien Brody would be a waaaaaaaaaaaayyy better spike. If Keanu Reeves cares about this film and the fans, he will not play Spike. Please Keanu, cast Adrien Brody as spike.

A.D.Colabel on Dec 18, 2008

165

Aight, whether you're a Keanu fan or not, you have to admit that as soon as he appears on stage the movie becomes a "Keanu movie". I can't even see him as Neo in the Matrix any more. He's just Keanu Reeves to me no matter what role he plays.

That said, I'm not too familiar with his work as a producer, but I hope he will take a lot of input from Shinichir? Watanabe, Keiko Nobumoto and the rest of the creative force behind the original series.

And this better not be another rubber-suit, bad dialogue let's make this look like the cartoon-fest. Put on a nice suit, play some jazz and a clever storyline and this movie will be set without all the glam of hollywood.

/agree on Kate Beckinsale as Faye. No Tom Sizemore as Jet.

@ the Boss, you know exactly why they're doing it and you know you can't stop it and you knew it was going to happen eventually, so might as well roll with the punches on this one and just remember, this is NOT a part of the series. I mean… Vicious dies at the end and Spike may or may not have also. This is likely to be a prequel which SUX but you just have to take it out of context or your mind will disintegrate.

stilldeciding on Dec 18, 2008

166

Also /agree on AMgirl

stilldeciding on Dec 18, 2008

167

http://www.clumsyfingers.net/misc/keanu-spike.jpg

Um…

Keanu Reeves as Spike

stilldeciding on Dec 18, 2008

168

keanu reeves must not be allowed to play spike. theres no way he can capture that devil may care laidback attitude.

no other suggestions though…

beboplives on Dec 19, 2008

169

also… the smile is one of the most important things about spike. has anyone ever, ever, ever seen keanu reeves smile like that?

Johnny Depp could pull off the smile, but not the look…

but lets face it, no matter who they get, its not gonna be the spike we all know and love.

beboplives on Dec 19, 2008

170

It would just be better I think for all of us, if then live-action movie weren't made at all. The cartoon is way too amazing to have Hollywood just fuck it all up to make a quick buck. The only good thing about making this movie is hopefully getting more people interested enough to watch the series to see really how amazing it can be.

Blake on Dec 20, 2008

171

Shave and fix up the dew and he almost looks like Spike Spiegel. And maybe (agreeing with #170) it'll probably be a good idea to air this on T.V., not late at night, and show people this one of the best anime ever to see how many people like it. I know my grandma likes it.

Dude on Dec 21, 2008

172

Reeves bares a resemblance to Spike physically allright, but I cant see him portraying the brooding nature of the character. Adrian Brody though, that I can see.

TJ on Dec 22, 2008

173

He defiantly looks a little like Spike, but I don't know if anyone really COULD play spike well (Maybe Christian Bale?) But Reeve sis either to serious ( The matrix, the day the earth stood still) or TO FREAKING GOOFY! (Bill and Teds). But if he could do it right, it could be very good.

Gizmo on Dec 22, 2008

174

This is the all-time worst idea. Bebop is my favorite series of anything and this news is like that of a death in the family. Reeves is a horrible actor and a bafoon. This isn't a sit around and look pretty character - it's not all "whoas", "two parts of my brain are competing?", "it has to be that way" and "let's go for the 2 point conversion"'s in this role. This just yet again goes to show that studios will ruin everything good eventually.

Reeves' thoughts read like a teleprompter in his vacant doe eyes…. Spike Spiegel? Arguably the all around coolest fictional character of all time? My day is ruined. I guess anime isn't cool anymore - thanks Hollywood.

Thanks for the update!

mikomi on Dec 23, 2008

175

I think Keanu would be good in the role, it would be bloody hard to cast the other characters but you can pretty much garantee it will be an overall bad film, because it is hollywood who is making it, and hollywood cannot make an anime-to-movie film. I also wouldn't trust the project to an indie filmmaker (i am one myself, so i know it would be way out of their league), what i think should be the focus of the film is that it is being made at all.
yeah, it will not be an amazing film, and i will be willing to stab anyone with a fork who goes in there expecting it to be and comes out saying "aww that was crap!" because we all KNOW it is going to be BAD. So just enjoy the idea.
I think Keanu will do fine, even if it's only in relation to the film as a whole.
We just have to accept it.

NJ Finch on Dec 23, 2008

176

LOOK AT THIS!

So basically Keanu has already been chosen for the part, there is probably no way around it now. And it actually sounds like he is enthusiastic about it and is going to try his best, hopefully.

And Keanu may have the dark hair and all but he just doesnt look like Spike. Spike is tall and pretty skinny and Keanu just isnt quite there and plus Spike is 27 and Keanu is like 44.

Anyways to the point, this person here is a very close friend of mine who I think looks EXACTLY like Spike. I know its kinda difficult to see from the picture but trust me he does. It is seriously as if the character of Spike was based off of this person, no joke. All of my friends, who are avid fans of the show, completely agree that he is the real life version of Spike. Even a few of my family members, who havent really seen the show regrettably, say he looks just like him. I probably know more than 15 people who say he is the spitting image of Spike.

This guy is tall, about 6'2" and skinny. He has the hair, the face, even the personality and the voice. I mean Im serious when I say that he is the real life version of Spike.

So, PLEASE, if you could take a second and tell me what you think it would be greatly appreciated. It seems that everyone else on here is posting their ideal person for Spike and I want to do the same, even though this person really is the IDEAL person for the role.

Its just too bad that he wont be, for he would really make the greatest Spike, but like I said, Keanu is most likely going to be Spike whether we like it or not.

Sorry if this is cheesy, I just had to get it out there because Ive felt this way for so long.

http://img34.picoodle.com/img/img34/3/12/23/f_Project1m_8f866d8.png

Okami on Dec 23, 2008

177

God FUCKING Dammit.

I can just hear the executives at FOX already: "First off, we gotta ditch this soundtrack. We were thinking more along the lines of Nine Inch Nails or Tool. People just don't want this crazy jazz stuff. What? Look we focus tested this several times, people don't like the jazz. We're just trying to hit the widest audience here. Oh yea, and get Keanauauou on this . We need someone kind of action-y for Spick. What? Oh right, SPIKE. Whatever. And about this "Ed" character. We're not really sure how to market him. Her? Really? See this is what I'm talking about. So we think it might be just easier to replace Ed with a funny CGI alien character that can make wise cracks while the action is happening. We have some mock ups of the toy already, cute ain't it? It'll help pep up this depressing tone don't you think? Basically what were going for is a Matrix, meets Bladerunner, meets Wall-E romantic comedy, saving the galaxy, summer popcorn extravaganza. Trust us, this is gonna make SO much money."

ChrisL on Dec 29, 2008

178

hahaha! oh man. i love you Christ (177). perfect description. im a huge fan of cowboy bebop and i am dreading this film, not as much as im dreading dragonball though.

zero on Jan 5, 2009

179

and i also love you too mikomi (174).

zero on Jan 5, 2009

180

i could play a better spike than keanu. holy fucking shit. there's no point in making a movie if you're just going to put keanu in it.

oh and mickey rourke as jet.

matt on Jan 5, 2009

181

"Can we give him a chance in Cowboy Bebop?"

NO! That's a horrible casting choice and I think Bebop fans need to show their reaction to it in droves. Keanu Reeves can never do justice to the role of Spike.

Daniel on Jan 10, 2009

182

Hollywood's going to rape this film till there's nothing left but some overbudgeted film. I love cowboy bebop but please leave anim to the professionals. I just saw the trailer for the dragon ball z movie and I almost shit my pants at how horrible it looked.

Jreilc on Jan 11, 2009

183

Has anyoine seen Thumbsucker? Keanu's role in that (a philosophising dentist) makes me think he could actually pull off the `easy chalm' of Spike.

Is Bruce Willis too old for Jet? He's plaid an aweful lot of `ex-cops' already, why not another one? But I like the Ron Perlman idea. Could Selma blaire pull off Faye then (hellboy reunion) I know she's not as curvy as the cartoon evrsion, btu few women are. No ideas for Ed.

Earlofthercs on Jan 13, 2009

184

adrian broady would be waaaaay better.

julietoscrnvmbr on Jan 14, 2009

185

No! Not my Bebop!!! Of all the anime series they could taint with Keanu Reeves, it just had to be Bebop. This sucks, matrix or not, he is just not Spike. What next? Dakota Fanning for Ed?

Catillac on Jan 16, 2009

186

This is the fucking worst thing that could ever happen to anime….

someone on Jan 16, 2009

187

I have my reservations.. I wouldnt mind seeing it if it were well put together. But noone wants to see Keanu or anyone else ruin the series for perspective new fans. This idea is taking a huge gamble on whether or not existing fans will dish out the 10 bucks to watch it. Guess we'll see when Dragonball hits theaters

Germz on Jan 16, 2009

188

Found this on 4chan… hell yea!

Anyhow, I hope this is a trilogy… or something with sequel potential. The series isn't exactly open ended >.>

Anon on Jan 16, 2009

189

lol but i think he's not suited for the role. but it would be funny to see him in that messed up afro hair style that spike has

frost viper on Jan 17, 2009

190

mark wahlberg = spike!<