In 2025, Hollywood icon Keanu Reeves is poised to captivate audiences with two highly anticipated films: Good Fortune, a celestial comedy marking Aziz Ansari’s directorial debut, and From the World of John Wick: Ballerina, an action-packed spin-off set in the gritty, adrenaline-fueled universe of John Wick. These projects promise to showcase Reeves’ versatility, blending his signature charm with wildly different genres. Yet, behind the scenes, the fate of Good Fortuneremains uncertain as negotiations involving Reeves hang in a delicate balance, leaving fans on edge about whether this ambitious comedy will soar or stumble.
Good Fortune is a bold departure from Reeves’ recent action-heavy roles. In this film, he plays Gabriel, a well-meaning but bumbling guardian angel tasked with guiding a struggling gig worker, Arj, played by Aziz Ansari. The story follows Arj, a man down on his luck, juggling odd jobs for a wealthy tech mogul, Jeff, portrayed by Seth Rogen. Gabriel, typically responsible for minor interventions like preventing car accidents, takes a risky leap by swapping Arj’s life with Jeff’s to prove that wealth doesn’t solve all problems. The plan backfires hilariously when Arj embraces his new luxurious life, leaving Gabriel stripped of his wings and forced to navigate the human world alongside a now-displaced Jeff. The film’s premise draws inspiration from classics like It’s a Wonderful Life and Trading Places, blending celestial fantasy with sharp social commentary on class divides and the gig economy in Los Angeles.
The cast of Good Fortune is a powerhouse, featuring Keke Palmer as Elena, a hardware store worker fighting for better conditions, and Sandra Oh as Martha, an angel who revokes Gabriel’s wings. The film promises a mix of heartfelt humor and chaotic misadventures, with Reeves’ Gabriel bringing a quirky, almost otherworldly charm to the role. Production, however, faced challenges. Filming began in January 2024 in Los Angeles, but Reeves suffered a knee injury two weeks into shooting after tripping in his trailer. Despite the setback, he powered through most scenes, with only a salsa dancing sequence delayed until his recovery. The film is set to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 6, 2025, with a wide theatrical release on October 17, 2025, signaling confidence in its commercial appeal.
On the other hand, From the World of John Wick: Ballerina plunges Reeves back into the high-octane world that has defined his recent career. Set during the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum, the film follows Eve Macarro, played by Ana de Armas, a young assassin training in the deadly traditions of the Ruska Roma. Reeves reprises his iconic role as John Wick, appearing alongside a stellar cast including Anjelica Huston, Gabriel Byrne, Lance Reddick, and Norman Reedus. Directed by Len Wiseman, Ballerina promises the franchise’s signature blend of stylish action, intricate world-building, and relentless intensity. The film explores Eve’s transformation into a lethal killer, with John Wick serving as a mentor figure in her journey. Scheduled for release on June 6, 2025, Ballerina is expected to expand the John Wick universe, delving deeper into the shadowy organizations that govern its assassins.
While Ballerina appears on track for its summer release, Good Fortune faces uncertainty due to ongoing negotiations. The exact nature of these discussions remains unclear, but they reportedly involve Reeves’ commitments, possibly related to scheduling conflicts or contractual details. Reeves’ packed 2025 slate, including another project titled Outcome and a potential reunion with Sandra Bullock, suggests that his availability may be stretched thin. The negotiations could also pertain to creative or financial aspects, as Good Fortune is a high-profile project for Lionsgate, aiming to revive the theatrical comedy genre. Aziz Ansari, who also wrote and stars in the film, has expressed a strong desire to make comedies a box-office force again, citing the success of films like Barbie as evidence of audience demand for shared laughter in theaters.
The stakes are high for both films. Good Fortune represents a gamble on theatrical comedies, a genre that has struggled post-pandemic. Ansari’s vision is ambitious, weaving themes of economic disparity, gentrification, and the gig economy into a fantastical narrative. The film’s Los Angeles setting serves as a character itself, reflecting the city’s contrasts between wealth and struggle. Reeves’ casting as an angel is a stroke of genius, capitalizing on his real-life persona as a kind-hearted, almost saintly figure in Hollywood. His injury during production, while minor, sparked viral concern among fans, with hashtags like #GetWellSoonKeanu trending online, underscoring his universal appeal.
Ballerina, meanwhile, is a safer bet, building on the John Wick franchise’s proven success. The series has grossed over $1 billion globally, and Ballerina aims to attract both loyal fans and new audiences with its female-led story and expanded mythology. Reeves’ involvement, even if limited, ensures a connection to the core series, while Ana de Armas brings fresh energy as a new kind of assassin. The film’s June release positions it as a summer blockbuster, likely to dominate with its choreographed action sequences and sleek visuals.
As 2025 approaches, fans eagerly await clarity on Good Fortune’s negotiations. Will Reeves’ angelic Gabriel take flight, or will the film face delays? The uncertainty only heightens anticipation, as Reeves continues to balance his action-hero legacy with unexpected comedic ventures. Both films highlight his enduring star power, from the bullet-ridden streets of the John Wick universe to the heavenly chaos of Good Fortune. Whether saving souls or taking lives, Keanu Reeves remains Hollywood’s most enigmatic leading man, and 2025 promises to be a defining year for his cinematic legacy.
