Where is the evidence that Keanu Reeves is critically under-rated as an actor?

Question by genuine_jon: Where is the evidence that Keanu Reeves is critically under-rated as an actor?
Why do so many contributors to movie discussion forums feel the need to defend the “steward of cool breezes” from the abuse of critics.

By and large, critics (who make a living from criticism) freely acknowledge that an actor who has held his own against the likes of Al Pacino, Jack Nicholson, Diane Keaton, Charlize Theron, Gene Hackman, Patrick Swayze and Gary Oldman, who has worked for such greats as Francis Ford Coppola, Bernardo Bertolucci, Stephen Frears, Gus Van Sant and Kathryn Bigelow, in films ranging from Parenthood (1989), through Point Break (1991), My Private Idaho (1991), all the way to Dangerous Liaisons (1988) and The Devil’s Advocate (1997), is by no means short of talent.

Which is not to say that the films in which he has starred haven’t received their fair share of critical panning. Rarely though have they sought to write Reeves off because of a poorly cast or written part that he has undertaken. But you wouldn’t think so if you only paid attention to the forums, http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=105×1992666 , where the need to provide evidence in support of statements is rarely felt.

Consider the career of Sir Michael Caine, not only a movie superstar, but considered to be one of the best actors of his generation. He too has had his fair share of critically derided film roles. But you never hear the phrase “the critically under-rated” linked to his name.

So, where is the evidence that Keanu Reeves is critically under-rated as an actor? If possible, please provide sources to support your contribution.

Best answer:

Answer by LilyRT
You just compared Keanu Reeves to Michael Caine? go hit yourself on the head 20 times for penance.

there is no evidence that he’s critically under-rated as an actor. He’s pitiful. But, he has good taste in movies and manages to pick roles that he can coast through without screwing up too much. That’s a useful skill and one better actors would do well to acquire.

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