The Matrix helped redefine the sci-fi blockbuster when it was released in 1999. It was followed by two sequels in 2003, and a third sequel – as well as reboot of the franchise – titled The Matrix Resurrections in 2021. Now, with a much shorter time gap, it’s been revealed that The Matrix 5 is in the works – with Drew Goddard slated to direct.
The original three Matrix films were all directed by The Wachowskis. The Matrix Resurrections was directed by Lana Wachowski. As such, The Matrix 5 will be the first live-action Matrix film not to be directed by either one of the Wachowskis. Fans will recall the anime feature film spin-off, The Animatrix, also released in 2003 to coincide with the first film’s original two sequels with several Japanese directors involved.
Nevertheless, as shared by Variety, The Matrix 5 will be an all-new live-action entry in the blockbuster franchise. Lana Wachowski will return as an executive producer for the film, while Goddard will direct and write the screenplay. Goddward will also produce with his partner at Goddard Textiles, Sarah Esberg.
However, the publication does note that it’s unknown what direction the new film will take. This includes whether or not original stars Keanu Reeves and Carrie-Anne Moss will return:
“It’s not clear who from the ‘Matrix’ universe — Keanu Reeves and Carrie-Anne Moss have anchored all of the prior movies as Neo and Trinity, while Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Jonathan Groff, Neil Patrick Harris and Priyanka Chopra Jonas joined in the most recent iteration — will return.”
Additionally, they note that “Warner Bros. Motion Pictures president of production Jesse Ehrman teases that the story will advance the fantasy world without straying too far from what made the series a success.”
Ehrman also released the following statement:
“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,” Ehrman 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.”
Goddard also shared his own statement on the matter:
“It is not hyperbole to say ‘The Matrix’ films changed both cinema and my life,” Goddard said. “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.”
Stay tuned to ScreenGeek for any additional updates regarding Warner Bros‘ work on The Matrix 5 as we have them.