Keanu Reeves Urges Caution on Constantine 2 Marvel-Style Rewrites

If you're a fan of Keanu Reeves, there's exciting news: a sequel to his hit film Constantine has been in development for a while. However, recent comments from one of his co-stars in the original movie suggest Reeves isn't entirely satisfied with the scripts that have emerged during the process.

"There's been a lot of back and forth because I don't think Keanu is particularly happy with the scripts," actor Peter Stormare shared in a recent interview with The Direct. "The first movie wasn't an instant box office success; it gained a following over time and is now considered one of the biggest cult classics ever. For a sequel, studios often want spectacular elements—cars flying through the air, elaborate fight scenes with acrobatics."

Stormare, who played Lucifer in the 2005 film and is set to return for the sequel, added that Reeves prefers not to overload the next installment with action.

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"Keanu has said, 'I've done John Wick.' This film is more spiritual, focusing on demons and ordinary people. He wants to preserve that tone," Stormare explained. "We discussed having God appear in a similar fashion—dressed in a black suit, resembling Lucifer from the first movie. I'm 12 years older now, so replicating the original exactly will be challenging. But I believe Keanu is committed to making a sequel that stays true to the spirit of the first film."

It also seems Reeves is concerned that Warner Bros. might push for an overly grand production, similar to a Marvel film. This isn't entirely surprising, as Constantine is loosely based on the DC/Vertigo comic Hellblazer, and comic book adaptations are highly sought after. Reeves recently met with DC Studios about the project, but making it too extravagant could undermine the film's core appeal—something Reeves appears to recognize.

"The original took years to become a cult favorite. It resonated deeply with audiences then, and it will again," Stormare noted. "There's no need to pack it with action and gunfights. There are other movies for that. Don't Marvel-ize it—avoid constant harness-flying and excessive shootouts. Keep the big guns out of it. Let the story breathe."

Director Francis Lawrence is confirmed to return for the sequel, though a start date for filming and a release window have not yet been announced.