Keanu Reeves replaces Reacher star Alan Ritchson in new Netflix action movie

Keanu Reeves is replacing Reacher star Alan Ritchson in an upcoming action film for Netflix that's said to be inspired by Die Hard.

The John Wick star has been cast in Maelstrom from Carry-On director Jaume Collet-Serra, Page Six reported this week. The action film centres on a Federal Marshall who's tasked with protecting the fiancée of an arms dealer who is seeking witness protection as she prepares to testify against him.

As a hurricane rolls in, the pair has to fend off the elements as well as the army of men working for the arms deal who are on their tracks.

Related: Best streaming services

Originally sold as a spec script in 1993 by former Warner Bros boss Jeff Robinov, who oversaw box-office hit franchises like The Dark Knight and The Hangover, Maelstrom is penned by late screenwriter Gregory Fitzpatrick, whose first draft has been polished by How To Rob a Bank's Mark Bianculli.

The film marks the first project in Robinov's deal with Netflix. Back in 1993, Variety reported that Maelstrom was "widely described as Die Hard in a hurricane" and was sold for roughly $225,000 to $625,000, which today would translate to $500,000 to $1.4 million, adjusted for inflation over 33 years.

Meanwhile, Reeves has previously been confirmed to return to the world of John Wick, though not in the role that fans would expect.

Reeves has famously played the dog-loving hitman in the franchise created by Derek Kolstad, with Wick's final appearance in chronological order being 2023's John Wick: Chapter 4.

While Wick's death in Chapter 4 leaves little room for a possible return – there's no confirmation that Reeves will be appearing in a greenlit John Wick 5 – the star will be voicing the character in an untitled John Wick video game for PlayStation 5. Reeves is also involved in the game's production, as is franchise director Chad Stahelski.

Visit our Streaming Guide now to see at a glance where you can view ALL your favourite shows and movies.

The new edition of Legends, a 100-page celebration of the world of K-pop, is here. Buy K-Pop in newsagents or online.

Reporter, Digital Spy

Stefania is a freelance writer specialising in TV and movies. After graduating from City University, London, she covered LGBTQ+ news and pursued a career in entertainment journalism, with her work appearing in outlets including Little White Lies, The Skinny, Radio Times and Digital Spy. 

Her beats are horror films and period dramas, especially if fronted by queer women. She can argue why Scream is the best slasher in four languages (and a half).