The title might sound eerie, but not for the famous actor. For him, this thought serves as a foundation for gratitude, recognizing that we are still breathing and have the opportunity to do something meaningful. For instance, like him, we could publish our first novel.
In January of this year, it was announced that Keanu Reeves is publishing a novel in collaboration with China Miéville—a historical-fantasy book that is a “spin-off” of his 12-issue comic series titled “BRZRKR.” In it, the immortal hero Berserker fights to die.
In a new interview with the BBC on the occasion of the book’s release, Reeves, now 59, says it is “logical” to constantly think about death at his age. The same goes for the mentioned character in the new “Book of Some Other Place,” who is bored with immortality and fantasizes about what it would be like if he could die. He can be injured, but his wounds heal, his severed body parts regrow, and when his entire body is destroyed, a giant magical egg appears from which he re-emerges.
“B,” as he is abbreviated, is 80,000 years old and is half-mortal, half-god. He is cursed with a “curse of violence” from which he cannot escape. Unlike his character, the actor is known for his politeness and unassuming nature, often described as “the nicest guy in Hollywood.”
He says the inspiration for such a violent character comes from the action films he has starred in, such as the John Wick franchise. However, he distances himself from the notion that violence in art can directly influence violence in reality.
The initial reviews of the book (such as this one in The Guardian) are not particularly positive, noting the bitterness and repetitiveness of the narrative, as well as the extreme, graphic violence. But if the book isn’t that great, we can look forward to the Netflix adaptation, for which Reeves already has a deal to play the role of “B,” which in Macedonian can also mean “Immortal.”
Keanu Reeves, a celebrated actor known for his roles in films like “The Matrix” and “John Wick,” has ventured into the literary world with his first novel, co-authored with China Miéville. The book, a historical-fantasy work, is an extension of his comic series “BRZRKR,” which tells the story of an immortal warrior named Berserker. This character, cursed with eternal life and endless violence, seeks the one thing that eludes him—death.
In a recent BBC interview, Reeves, reflecting on his age, expressed that thinking about mortality is a natural part of getting older. At 59, it’s a topic that occupies his thoughts, and it mirrors the struggles of his book’s protagonist.
In “Book of Some Other Place,” the immortal hero, weary of his endless existence, dreams of the peace that death could bring. Despite his ability to heal from any injury, regenerate lost limbs, and even reform his entire body from a magical egg, he longs for an end to his suffering.
Reeves describes the character “B,” who is 80,000 years old and a blend of mortal and deity. This ancient being is shackled by a “curse of violence,” perpetually engaged in battles from which he cannot escape. In stark contrast to his brutal alter-ego, Reeves is known for his gentle demeanor and humility, often hailed as one of the kindest figures in Hollywood.
He attributes the creation of such a violent character to his experience in action-packed films, particularly the “John Wick” series. However, he makes it clear that he does not believe violence in fiction directly causes real-world violence.
The novel’s reception has been mixed. Critics, like those from The Guardian, have pointed out the story’s bitter tone and repetitive elements, as well as its graphic depictions of violence. Despite these critiques, there’s anticipation for the Netflix adaptation of the book. Reeves is already slated to star as “B,” a role that taps into his vast experience with action and complex characters.
This literary endeavor marks a significant step for Reeves, showcasing his versatility beyond acting. His collaboration with China Miéville, a renowned author known for his intricate and imaginative storytelling, adds a unique dimension to the project.
The novel’s exploration of immortality, violence, and the search for meaning resonates with universal themes, making it a thought-provoking addition to both the literary and entertainment worlds.
Reeves’ journey into writing is a testament to his creative spirit and willingness to explore new artistic avenues. His portrayal of “B” in the upcoming Netflix series is highly anticipated, promising to bring the character’s internal and external battles to life on screen. As fans await this adaptation, the novel itself offers a glimpse into the darker, more introspective side of the actor’s creative vision.
In conclusion, while Keanu Reeves’ first novel may not have received unanimous praise, it represents a bold new chapter in his career. The story of an immortal warrior’s quest for death is a compelling narrative that challenges readers to reflect on themes of mortality, violence, and the human condition. Whether through the written word or on the screen, Reeves continues to captivate audiences with his depth and versatility as an artist.