Keanu Reeves has become the new lead of the action thriller Maelstrom, the upcoming Netflix film, following Alan Ritchson's departure from the project. The casting change was recently confirmed, although the exact reasons for Ritchson's exit have not been made public.
The production, directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, the filmmaker behind the hit Netflix film Carry-On, is still in an early phase. Here is a look at everything known so far about Maelstrom.
What is Maelstrom about
The script for Maelstrom is written by Mark Bianculli, who took over the project from the original draft written by the late Gregory Fitzpatrick. That first script was commissioned by Warner Bros. in 1993, making this film a project with a long development history before finally arriving at Netflix.
The plot follows a Federal Marshal tasked with protecting the fiancée of an arms dealer who has become a protected witness. During an especially violent night, a hurricane cuts off all communications, leaving the protagonists without the possibility of calling for reinforcements and allowing the dealer's men to storm the safe house where they are hiding.
Jeff Robinov is producing the film alongside Tabitha Shick from the production company Talking Pictures.
Keanu Reeves replaces Alan Ritchson as lead
The first actor announced to lead Maelstrom was Alan Ritchson, known for his role in Reacher and his participation in War Machine. However, Ritchson has left the project for reasons that have not yet been disclosed.
In his place, Netflix has signed Keanu Reeves, one of the most recognizable action stars in modern cinema. Reeves is widely known for the John Wick franchise, his role as Neo in The Matrix saga, and as the voice of Shadow the Hedgehog in the Sonic franchise.
The actor has previously worked with Netflix on the comedy Always Be My Maybe and the drama To the Bone. Additionally, Reeves remains attached to the adaptation of the comic BRZRKR, a project that has been in development for several years.
Maelstrom production status
According to available information, Maelstrom is currently in pre-production. This means that filming has not yet begun and, for the moment, there is no confirmed shooting schedule.
When will Maelstrom be released on Netflix
There is no confirmed release date or launch window for Maelstrom. Until the filming schedule is known, it will be difficult to pinpoint when the film might arrive on Netflix.
For now, estimates suggest that the premiere could take place sometime in 2028, although this date is not officially confirmed and could vary as production progresses.
Frequently asked questions about Maelstrom on Netflix
Who is replacing Alan Ritchson in Maelstrom
Keanu Reeves has replaced Alan Ritchson as the lead in the Netflix action thriller Maelstrom. The reasons for Ritchson's departure from the project have not been revealed.
Who is directing Maelstrom
The film is directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, who also directed the hit Netflix film Carry-On.
What is Maelstrom about
The story follows a Federal Marshal who must protect the fiancée of an arms dealer turned witness for one night, while a hurricane cuts off communications and leaves the characters without reinforcements against the dealer's men.
When is Maelstrom released on Netflix
There is no confirmed release date yet. The film is in pre-production and current estimates point to a possible 2028 release, though this could change.
Has Keanu Reeves worked with Netflix before
Yes. Keanu Reeves has previously participated in the Netflix projects Always Be My Maybe and To the Bone. He is also attached to the future adaptation of the comic BRZRKR.