Many thanks to L for sending it in!
Markus Tschiedert interviewed Keanu Reeves at the Munich press junket for Ticket. The interview is in German but it translates well. with the google translator. Here are some of the highlights:
- Keanu was asked why his last two films were based on Asian culture and kung fu. He replied that he had no control over the fact that both films came out in the same year. He mentioned that he had the idea for Man of Tai Chi five years ago. After 47 Ronin was filmed, he was able to realize his own directorial debut. He also said that he was interested in Asian philospohy and kung fu movies since he was a child.
- He was asked if dealing with other cultures helped him in his life. He said: certainly, although he also did not want one more than others. He likes doing good things and trying everything just not to be a bastard. He also mentioned that there were great values at stake in 47 Ronin such as love, honor, revenge.
- In a follow-up, he was asked which of the values were more important to him personally. Keanu said that he could not put them in order by relevance. As a romantic, he would put love in first place because above all it requires passion and dedication.
- In view of the fact that he has been in the busines for over 20 years, he was asked how he manages to stay in the tough business and maintain balance in his life. Keanu said: “Well, not with yoga, as you might expect.I can not really say, except that as a child I was already a pretty down to earth guy.”
- The interviewer said that in view of all of his fung fu movies, he should be a martial arts expert and Keanu said he was just a movie kung fu expert. The martial arts requires life long practice but when it comes to movie fighting, he is an expert and has found his own style.
- He was asked about his experience for playing the outsider Kai and Keanu talked about all of the school changes and his heritage again.
- He was asked if he has a happier life today as a follow up. Keanu said: “Yes my life is not so bad. It has its ups and downs, even tragic events – but these are experiences that everyone has.
- He was also asked about turning 50 and Keanu talked about thinking more about death.
- When told that he doesn’t look like a nearly 50 year old, Keanu said told the interviewer that he needed to see his knees.
- the interviewer asked if he was chosen as the ‘Sexiest Man Alive” Keanu said not that he was aware of and he wouldn’t believe it anyways.
- He was asked if others have a misconception about him. Keanu said many have argued about what is wrong with him – I was shy, I was sad, I was a womanizer, then gay.I take it with humor.