Despite all the rumors and talk, I didn’t see this one coming.
Deadline is reporting that a new Matrix film is happening and will once again star Keanu Reeves and Carrie-Ann Moss and will be written and directed by co-creator Lana Wachowski. Warner Bros’ Toby Emmerich made the announcement today:
“We could not be more excited to be re-entering The Matrix with Lana. Lana is a true visionary—a singular and original creative filmmaker—and we are thrilled that she is writing, directing and producing this new chapter in The Matrix universe.”
There has been speculation for some time that a new Matrix film would be coming soon, but much of it was just that: various speculation and unfounded rumors. Some said the Wachowskis would return, some said they wouldn’t. Some said Michael B. Jordan would star, some said he wouldn’t. It all felt like the sort of unsubstantiated talk that happens all the time in Hollywood but apparently plans really were in motion. And here we are, The Matrix 4 is officially alive and well.
Reeves and Moss returning are the big shocks here. While a fourth Matrix movie always seemed possible and likely at some point, the idea of Reeves and Moss returning felt far-fetched. For one, both of their characters…erm, concluded in the final film of the original trilogy. Secondly, in an age or reboots and remakes one expected a brand new cast to lead whatever Matrix sequel came to fruition. Having these two come back makes me a thousand times more excited for this movie.
But why is only Lana Wachowski returning? What is holding Lana’s sister, Lilly, back from working on this? The Wachowskis always work together and you have to wonder why WB is only bringing Lana into the mix for The Matrix 4. I sure as heck hope the sisters’ working relationship is still strong because they can be a powerhouse together (Cloud Atlas forever!)
Now it’s time to start your speculation engines and ponder what a fourth Matrix film could be like and be about. Neo and Trinity are back, folks.