Hollywood movie executives are rejecting action-adventure movies featuring male protagonists, concluding that, given the box-office flop of 47 Ronin, with Keanu Reaves, male-led action movies are just too risky.

The big-budget samurai film debuted to $9.9 million over the Christmas holiday weekend, but 47 Ronin has been said to cost anywhere from $175 million to $225 million, SF Gate reports. The dismal opening will likely result in 47 Ronin being one of the biggest box-office bombs of 2013.

Mr. Reaves’ performance could affect other male actors. “Once again,” knowledgeable Hollywood expert said, “this proves that audiences won’t go to an action movie that stars men.”

Already, scripts with male protagonists are landing on the scrap pile. “While I am personally drawn to the presence of a male action hero, it is currently a tough sell with the less than stellar way 47 Ronin was received,” explained mega films executive producer  in rejecting a…