The Matrix
Summary
The series depicts a dystopia in which Earth is dominated by sentient machines that were created early in the 21st century and rebelled against humanity. At one point, humans attempted to block out the machines' source of solar power by covering the sky in thick, stormy clouds. However, the machines devised a way to extract humans' bioelectricity and thermal energy by growing people in pods, while their minds are kept under control by cybernetic implants connecting them to a simulated reality called the Matrix. The virtual reality world simulated by the Matrix resembles human civilization around the turn of the 21st century (this time period was chosen because it is supposedly the pinnacle of human civilization). The majority of the stories in the Matrix franchise take place in a vast unnamed megacity. This environment is practically indistinguishable from reality (although scenes set within the Matrix are presented on-screen with a bias toward the colour green), and the majority of humans connected to the Matrix are unaware of its true nature. Most of the central characters in the series are able to gain superhuman abilities within the Matrix by using their understanding of its true nature to manipulate its physical laws. The virtual world is first introduced in The Matrix. The Animatrix short film "The Second Renaissance" and the short comic "Bits and Pieces of Information" show how the initial conflict between humans and machines came about, and how and why the Matrix was first developed. Its history and purpose are further explained in The Matrix Reloaded.
latest
Christian Bale’s Matrix Knock-off Is Still a Fan Favorite
Starring Christian Bale, Emily Watson, and Taye Diggs, Equilibrium brings the same flair as The Matrix but also with a dystopian, gun-fu flair.
The Matrix 5 Announcement Sparks Divided Reaction From Fans
The news that The Matrix 5 is now in the works has resulted in a hugely divided reaction from fans of the iconic sci-fi action franchise.
The Matrix 5 Now in the Works
The Martian writer Drew Goddard is now working on a fifth movie in The Matrix franchise with Lana Wachowski on board as a producer.
How The Matrix Paved the Way for the MCU
25 years ago, we saw how deep the rabbit hole goes. Without that journey, we may not have had the biggest franchise on the planet.
Keanu Reeves' 10 Best Performances, Ranked
Keanue Reeves is a classic action star, but he has other roles that are both subtle and masterful too. Here are his ten best performances, ranked.
The Matrix: 10 Actors Almost Cast in the Franchise
While we wouldn't change the cast of The Matrix as we know it, it's cool to think that these 10 actors were almost part of the sci-fi franchise.
15 Best Film Scores of the '90s Ranked
These are the best '90s movies with some of the most memorable, epic, and listenable scores.
The Matrix 5: Will the Film Ever Happen?
Let's examine the knowns and unknowns vis-a-vis the fifth Matrix film!
The Matrix: Why This Beloved Sci-fi Franchise Is Actually a Huge Red Flag
Beneath the mesmerizing action sequences and philosophical undertones lies a darker side to The Matrix franchise.
10 Best Fight Scenes in The Matrix Series, Ranked
The Matrix series’ impact on pop culture cannot be overstated. Much of that is owed to the incredible kung fu fights which have often been imitated.
The Matrix Set to Become a Dance Show Directed by Danny Boyle
The sci-fi franchise of The Matrix is to be adapted as a dance stage show by director Danny Boyle and will premiere in the UK in October 2023.
Nicolas Cage Says He Turned Down The Matrix and The Lord of the Rings
Many actors would have done anything to get involved in these major franchises, but for Nicolas Cage, family time was more important.
The Matrix Movies in Order: Chronologically and by Release Date
An action franchise which defined the turn of the century and surprised everyone with a comeback 20 years later, The Matrix movies remain important.
Explained: The Philosophy of The Matrix Movies
The Matrix was one of the few mainstream commercial blockbusters to tackle some heady philosophical themes, and these are a few.
These Movies Have Some of the Most Laughably Bad Special Effects of This Century
From CGI sharks to a feline James Corden, these movies had some of the most comically terrible special effects of the last two decades.
Laurence Fishburne's Best Movies, Ranked
Laurence Fishburne has starred in two of Hollywood's most successful franchises and several great films. Here, we break down his most notable roles.
Here are Some Philosophical Movies and Why They're Brilliant
Philosophy is a cornerstone of all great civilizations. Here are just a few of the best films which utilize the love of wisdom.
Keanu Reeves Treats His Inner Circle With a Getaway to The Matrix: Resurrections’ San Francisco Premiere
In his latest act of expressing gratitude, Reeves took his close ones on an all-expenses-paid trip to attend The Matrix premiere in San Francisco.
Keanu Reeves Reportedly Donated 70% of His Fee for The Matrix to Charity
Keanu Reeves has recently returned to the role of Neo in The Matrix Resurrections, so now is as good a time as any to talk about his past generosity.
Hugo Weaving Was Considered to Return as Agent Smith in The Matrix Resurrections
While much of the original cast reprised their roles for The Matrix Resurrections, Hugo Weaving is one absentee who was originally planned for return.