The Matrix universe is expanding with a new movie helmed by Drew Goddard.
The writer and director, best known for his work on titles like The Martian, The Cabin in the Woods, and Netflix’s Daredevil series, will both direct the film and pen its screenplay. Goddard has plenty of experience with sci-fi, having gotten his start penning episodes of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, and Lost. (Editor’s Note: Our Senior Entertainment Editor, Liz Shannon Miller, believes Goddard may be the perfect person to take on a Matrix reboot.)
Currently untitled, the project will be the first Matrix film to not directly involve creators Lana and Lilly Wachowski, though the former will serve as executive producer. Plot details are currently being kept under wraps, but it sounds like Goddard has a strong vision to extend the franchise.
“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,” said Warner Bros. Motion Pictures president of production Jesse Ehrman in a statement.
The first Matrix movie was released in theaters 25 years ago. Starring Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, Laurence Fishburne, and Hugo Weaving, the film left a permanent impact with its exploration of themes like free will and religion, groundbreaking action sequences, and complex lore.
It was followed by a pair of sequels, The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions, in 2003 that received mixed reviews. In 2021, Lana Wachowski returned with The Matrix Resurrections, which brought back Reeves and Moss alongside a new generation of actors.
However, Resurrections appeared to be the end of the line for the franchise, with both Reeves and producer James McTeigue saying there was no planned sequel — with the caveat that Reeves was “in” if Lana Wachowski returned.
Stayed tuned to find out if Wachowski’s executive producer credit is enough to bring Reeves back — and whether he even fits into Goddard’s vision for the film.
Editor’s Note: Read our recent Consequence Chat about The Matrix in celebration of its 25th anniversary, along with the rest of our ’99 Rewind retrospective. Plus, try your hand at our Matrix-themed crossword puzzle.
