Get ready to re-enter the Matrix as Warner Bros. is developing a new Matrix film with Drew Goddard (The Cabin in the Woods) directing and Matrix co-creator/writer/director Lana Wachowski executive producing.
The Matrix – which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary – told the story of a dystopian future where humanity is controlled by a race of AI machines and plugged into a digital world called the Matrix that not only keeps humans subservient, but the machines main power source. Those who have unplugged themselves from the Matrix hide underground and search for The One who is prophesized to destroy the machines and free humanity.
The series starred Keanu Reeves, Carrie Ann Moss, Laurence Fishburne and Hugo Weaving. Reeves and Moss reprised their roles in The Matrix Resurrections which Lana Wachowski returned to write and direct on her own.
Goddard approach WB with an idea to continue the franchise, though it is unknown if it will be a continuation of Resurrections or will see Reeves, Moss, Fishburne, Weaving or any of the new Resurrections cast like Jessica Henwick, Yahya Abdul-Manteen II or Jonathan Groff return. Wachowski, however, will executive produce, but it is also unknown how sizeable her role in production will be beyond an exec producer.
“It is not hyperbole to say The Matrix films changed both cinema and my life. Lana and Lilly’s exquisite artistry inspires me on a daily basis, and I am beyond grateful for the chance to tell stories in their world,” said Goddard.
Jesse Ehrman, Warner Bros. Motion Pictures President of Production said “Drew came to Warner Bros. with a new idea that we all believe would be an incredible way to continue the Matrix world, by both honoring what Lana and Lilly began over 25-years ago and offering a unique perspective based on his own love of the series and characters,” said Jesse Ehrman, WB Motion Pictures President, said. “The entire team at Warner Bros. Discovery is thrilled for Drew to be making this new Matrix film, adding his vision to the cinematic canon the Wachowskis’ spent a quarter of a century building here at the studio.”
The original Matrix was a critical and commercial success, reshaping what cinema could do with its groundbreaking effects. Since its premiere in 1999, the franchise has earned over $1 billion at the box office. The latest film, The Matrix Resurrections, was released in 2021 but did not fare too well at the box office due to Covid restrictions and WB’s day-and-date digital release, a fact which led to producing studio Village Roadshow filing a lawsuit against Warner Bros. for loss of revenue.
What do you think of a new Matrix movie? Could the franchise continue? Are you interested in someone other than Wachowski directing? Let us know on our social channels at @FlickeringMyth…
Ricky Church – Follow me on Twitter for more movie news and nerd talk.
