The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert feat. Keanu Reeves | Colbert Classic Release Date: January 6, 2025

Introduction to Keanu Reeves

In this special "Colbert Classic" episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert, host Stephen Colbert welcomes the multifaceted star Keanu Reeves. Known for his iconic roles in films like The Matrix and John Wick, Reeves brings his unique blend of humor, depth, and humility to the conversation.

Big Questions with Even Bigger Stars

Timestamp: 01:20 – 07:00

Colbert introduces a revived segment titled "Big Questions with Even Bigger Stars," aiming to delve into profound topics with influential figures. This segment sets a playful tone as Colbert engages Keanu Reeves with a series of philosophical questions.

• Existence and the Universe

  • Colbert (03:08): "Where do we go when we die?"
  • Reeves (03:10): "I don't know, but I hope they have mozzarella sticks."

• Youth and Wisdom

  • Colbert (03:19): "Do you think youth is wasted on the young?"
  • Reeves (03:23): "I don't remember because I spent so much of my youth wasted."

• Reality Simulations

  • Colbert (03:32): "Do you ever think maybe life is just a simulation?"
  • Reeves (03:40): "Oh, right. Tron."

• Memories and Reality

  • Colbert (06:03): "How do you know that memories are real?"
  • Reeves (06:06): "Oh, because you can close your eyes and visualize being there."

This segment blends humor with introspection, showcasing Reeves' ability to balance lightheartedness with meaningful discourse.

Injury and Resilience

Timestamp: 08:09 – 12:54

Colbert shifts the conversation to Reeves' personal experiences, addressing an actual injury Reeves sustained earlier in the year.

• The Accident
  • Colbert (08:28): "You got an actual injury. To your left knee."
  • Reeves (09:05): "I had an ouchie."

Reeves recounts the incident during a film scene with Aziz Ansari and Seth Rogen involving a cold plunge. His knee injury, resulting from an unfortunate slip, showcases his dedication to performing physically demanding roles.

• Surgery and Recovery
  • Reeves (12:00): "I was losing feeling and like I was kind of starting to fall in the shower..."
  • Colbert (12:16): "Wow."

Reeves discusses overcoming spinal injuries and the rigorous process of recovery, highlighting his resilience and commitment to his craft.

Collaborative Creativity: The Book of Elsewhere

Timestamp: 12:54 – 18:28

A significant portion of the interview delves into Reeves' foray into writing, specifically his collaboration on The Book of Elsewhere with acclaimed author China Miéville.

• Collaboration Process
  • Reeves (14:02): "We would meet, and then he did a draft. We gave some notes, some thoughts, and then another draft..."
  • Colbert (14:18): "So it's in that Berserker universe."

Reeves explains the creative synergy between him and Miéville, emphasizing mutual respect and the blending of their unique storytelling styles. The book is described as an extension of Reeves' graphic novel Berserker, expanding its universe through collaborative narrative.

• Emotional Investment
  • Reeves (13:16): "I'm going to cry, man, because we've been working on this for years..."
  • Colbert (17:53): "Oh, that's good. Probably. Could you please take that probe out of my butt?"

The conversation underscores the emotional depth and personal significance of the project for Reeves, illustrating his passion beyond acting.

Revisiting Past Roles and Future Projects

Timestamp: 18:04 – 22:54

Colbert explores Reeves' cinematic journey, focusing on his desire to revisit past characters and upcoming projects.

• John Constantine Revival
  • Colbert (16:33): "Is there a character you've played before you'd like to play again that no one is asking you to?"
  • Reeves (16:45): "I would love to play John Constantine again from Constantine."

Reeves expresses enthusiasm for reprising the role of John Constantine, hinting at potential future collaborations with Colbert in a hypothetical sequel.

• Music and Dogstar
  • Colbert (18:35): "Your band, Dogstar, is going out on tour next month."
  • Reeves (19:08): "I really enjoy it. I love playing music."

Discussing his musical endeavors, Reeves highlights his love for performing with Dogstar, revealing his artistic versatility beyond acting.

• Instrumental Interests
  • Colbert (19:09): "What do you play?"
  • Reeves (19:15): "Yes, electric bass."

Reeves shares his passion for the electric bass and his interest in learning the cello, demonstrating his continuous pursuit of artistic growth.

Reflecting on Iconic Films and Their Impact

Timestamp: 21:03 – 23:07

In a nostalgic segment, Reeves reflects on significant anniversaries of his landmark films, sharing personal anecdotes and the profound influence these works have had on both himself and audiences worldwide.

• The Matrix
  • Reeves (22:29): "The Matrix changed my life. And then over these years, it's changed so many other people's lives in really positive and great ways."
  • Colbert (22:00): "The Matrix. We'll be right back after this."

Reeves extols The Matrix not just as a career-defining role but as a cultural phenomenon that has inspired countless individuals, underscoring the film's lasting legacy.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Timestamp: 23:07 – End

As the interview wraps up, Reeves promotes the release of The Book of Elsewhere, inviting listeners to engage with his latest literary endeavor. Colbert thanks Reeves for his candid and insightful participation, closing the episode on a heartfelt note.

• Book Release
  • Reeves (23:07): "The Book of Elsewhere is in bookstores tomorrow."
  • Colbert (23:07): "Thank you for listening to The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert."

Notable Quotes

• Keanu Reeves on Life and Simulations:

  • "Do you ever think maybe life is just a simulation?" (03:32)
  • "If you knew you were going to die tomorrow, what would you do today?" (04:05)

• On Collaboration:

  • "We would meet, and then he did a draft. We gave some notes, some thoughts, and then another draft..." (14:02)

• Reflecting on The Matrix:

  • "The Matrix changed my life. And then over these years, it's changed so many other people's lives in really positive and great ways." (22:29)

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert offers a profound glimpse into Keanu Reeves' life beyond the silver screen. From philosophical musings and personal injuries to creative collaborations and musical passions, Reeves showcases his depth as an artist and individual. Colbert's witty and engaging hosting style complements Reeves' introspective yet humorous demeanor, making for a compelling and memorable conversation.

For fans and newcomers alike, this episode provides rich insights into Keanu Reeves' multifaceted career and personal philosophies, all delivered with the signature charm and wit that define The Late Show.

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