Keanu Reeves Admits Some ‘John Wick’ Stunts Made Him ‘Puke'

During a conversation to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the original John Wick, Keanu Reeves revealed (via People) that some of the film’s stunts were so intense they made him throw up. The talk, held at the AMC Century City 15 in Los Angeles, found Reeves and co-star Ian McShane reminiscing about filming the then-inconspicuous actioner alongside director Chad Stahelski and producer Erica Lee.

John Wick grossed over $86 million worldwide on a budget of around $30 million, making it a surprise hit. The combination of Reeves’ steely performance, which revitalized the actor’s career, and the film’s revolutionary action sequences made John Wick one of the most popular, if unexpected, franchises in the last decade. It spawned three sequels in addition to two spinoffs, The Continental and Ballerina. A fourth theatrical installment is currently in development.

Calling the original John Wick a “gift,” Reeves praised the stunt performers and action choreographers who made the movies something truly special. “I had so many wonderful teachers and guidance and worked with so many talented actors, actresses and stunt people in the sense of it's such a dance and collaboration and cooperation,” he said. Reeves added: “So there's a couple of times where you throw up or puke or whatever, but that's what makes it good!”

McShane agreed, telling the audience that Reeves is known on set for pushing himself to create the best possible version of the movie. “He pushes the envelope all the time. So when your leading actors says, ‘We'd like do another [take],’ and it's raining for the seventh day in a row outside…and you're standing there, whatever. And you go, ‘Well, Keanu's doing it. Here we are. Here we go,’” McShane said.

Each of the John Wick movies are available to rent on Amazon Prime Video.