Some exciting names are attached
Whether we like it or not, a fourth 'Matrix' movie is in the works so we might as well get used to the idea.
Created by the Wachowskis, 'The Matrix' franchise kicked off with the hit 1999 film we know and love. 2003 sequels 'The Matrix Reloaded' and 'The Matrix Revolutions' weren't great but hey, at least they brought the story full circle. And we had some great action sequences in 'Reloaded', right?
Well two years ago there was talk of another 'Matrix' movie with Zac Penn ('Last Action Hero', 'X-Men 2', 'The Avengers') in talks to write a treatment. Meanwhile it was hoped that Michael B. Jordan, best-known for 'Creed' and possibly our next Superman, would play the lead.
At this point the Wachowskis were not on board and Keanu Reeves said he'd only be involved if they were. Moreover Penn himself debunked the rumours that it was going ahead.
That all changed in recent months.
Are the Wachowskis involved?
Earlier this year, it was confirmed that the new 'Matrix' film will be directed by Lana Wachowski (co-creator and co-director of the franchise with her sister Lilly).
The script, meanwhile, will be written by Wachowski, alongside sci-fi authors David Mitchell ('Cloud Atlas' - the film adaptation of which was also directed by the Wachowskis) and Aleksandor Hemon ('The Lazarus Project').
Who stars in 'The Matrix 4'?
Well what's super exciting about the fourquel (?) is Carrie-Anne Moss and Keanu Reeves are returning as Trinity and Neo respectively. Hugo Weaving has stated he will not be back as Agent Smith due to scheduling conflicts.
Another familiar face is Jada Pinkett Smith, who be back as Niobe.
'Aquaman' star Yahya Abdul-Mateen II will play a lead role.
Other new cast members include Jessica Henwick and Neil Patrick Harris, whose characters have not been disclosed.
Moreover, just recently, Jonathon Groff, who audiences will know from 'Frozen' and 'Mindhunter', joined the cast.
What's it about?
Lana Wachowski said, in a statement: “Many of the ideas Lilly and I explored 20 years ago about our reality are even more relevant now. I’m very happy to have these characters back in my life and grateful for another chance to work with my brilliant friends.”
Aside from that, the story of 'The Matrix 4' remains a total mystery for the moment. There is speculation that Abdul-Mateen is playing a young Morpheus, which would make the film a prequel. Then again, the fact that Trinity and Neo are back complicates that possibility. The time period setting is also currently unknown.
When is the release date for the sequel?
Warner Bros. has set the release date for May 21, 2021. It's the same date that 'John Wick 4' hits screens, also starring Keanu Reeves.
Production is scheduled to start in early 2020. We will keep you posted as we learn more.