Get ready to take the red pill, because The Matrix is about to return. As further proof that the Keanussance is not going away anytime soon, a fourth Matrix movie has just been announced with original stars Keanu Reeves and Carrie-Anne Moss, as well as original co-director/co-writer Lana Wachowski, who is set to direct and co-write the new sequel.
Warner Bros. Picture Group chairman Toby Emmerich made the surprise announcement on Aug. 20. “We could not be more excited to be re-entering The Matrix with Lana,” Emmerich said, according to Variety. “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.” Wachowski added her own statement, saying, “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.”
The sequel marks just the latest high-profile project for Reeves, who is experiencing a massive career resurgence and having a banner year. John Wick 3 became the franchise’s highest-earner this year, Reeves stole the show in Toy Story 4, he had a viral scene-stealing turn in the rom-com Always Be My Maybe, he was revealed as the surprise star in the highly anticipated video game Cyberpunk 2077, and he is currently filming a third Bill & Ted movie, due out next year. Oh, and he’s also taken on the moniker of the Internet’s boyfriend. NBD.
As for the plot of the fourth Matrix film, those details are unknown for now. Variety states that Morpheus could somehow return, but the studio is currently looking at recasting the character with an actor who is significantly younger than original star Laurence Fishburne.
There is no release date yet for The Matrix 4, but the film is expected to start production early next year.
