When The Matrix Revolutions wrapped the long and twisty story that is The Matrix trilogy, the world thought it was the end of the story. Apparently, that wasn't entirely the truth, as Warner Bros has been confirmed as turning the world of Neo and the human resistance back on, with a brand new film. Seeing as this is an evolving situation, we felt it would be a good idea to compile everything we know in this handy, up-to-the-minute guide.
Keep in mind, the information contained below is preliminary, and can change at a moment's notice. So if you're really excited about the new Matrix film, bookmark this page and check back periodically for updates. Now, it's time to jack in and cover what's going on in the ever changing world of The Matrix.
What Is The New Matrix Movie About?
Originally, this new installment of The Matrix series was reported as a reboot of the series, much to the consternation of the internet. However, it wasn't long before writer Zak Penn, the scribe who is in talks with Warner Bros. to write the project, went on a Twitter crusade of truth to set the record straight. Apparently, the film is not a reboot or a remake of the original Matrix series, rather it's a new adventure in the current continuity. Rumors even have it that the film will involve the story of a young Morpheus and his adventures down the digital rabbit hole.
What Will The New Matrix Movie Be Rated?
This is a tricky question to answer, as, historically, The Matrix has been an R-rated franchise. With all of the action violence, swearing, and inventive usage of bondage gear and tight leather as costumes, a PG-13 rating had never been in the cards for Neo, Morpheus, and Trinity. However, it's not unusual for a major studio to want to cash in on a nostalgic property with a younger age bracket. It wouldn't be surprising if the studio decided they wanted to cast a wider net and aim for the blockbuster friendly rating to win over a whole new audience.
When Will The New Matrix Movie Be Released?
No release date has been set for The Matrix's latest revolution, however we can make some practical guesses. Should a script be locked down, and a cast assembled, production could start as early as the end of this year. If that's the case, we'd more than likely expect this new Matrix movie either in the later half of 2018, or more conservatively early to mid 2019. Though don't take our word for it, as the project is in a rather early phase.
Who's Looking To Star In The New Matrix Movie?
With the announcement of a new Matrix film, came the announcement of a new lead that Warner Bros. is courting for the duties. As of this moment, Creed star Michael B. Jordan's name has been linked to the project, which would be kind of awesome. With a young Morpheus rumored to be the focus of this new film, it's not hard to imagine Jordan following in the footsteps of Lawrence Fishburne, particularly after watching him succeed Carl Weathers in the Rocky series.
Who's Writing The New Matrix Movie?
Currently, writer Zak Penn is the name attached to the writing duties for the new Matrix film. More recently known as the writer behind Steven Spielberg's adaptation of Ready Player One, Penn is also a member of the Transformers Universe's writer's room. Perhaps his greatest claim to fame is his many Marvel projects, as he's been credited as a writer for everything from X-Men 2 to The Incredible Hulk, and even an earlier, influential draft of The Avengers.
Is The New Matrix Movie A Reboot?
As we had stated before, the original rumors surrounding the film's production stated that it would be a reboot of The Matrix series. But potential writer Zak Penn tore this claim down piece by piece, stating that it'd be impossible to remake The Matrix, and that if he wanted to recast Keanu Reeves, he'd still go with the original lead. More information is unavailable at this time, as Penn is currently only in talks to write the film. Not to mention, concrete details as to what the new Matrix movie will be about are probably going to be kept under wraps until a cast / director are officially announced.
Could This Lead Other Matrix Movies?
Actually, yes it could. Warner Bros. seems to have taken a page out of Paramount's book, and put together a Matrix "writer's room." The purpose of these writers is to think up other stories that can be told in the pre-existing Matrix universe. With a wealth of rich story material, as well as a lot of events and persons that have been hinted at or underused, the new Matrix cinematic universe could consist of side-stories, prequels, and one off stories. Should Zak Penn land this gig, this would mark the second franchise writer's room that he'd be a part of, the first being the Transformers Universe.
How Does The New Matrix Movie Fit In With The Original Trilogy?
As of now, this new film has been rumored to be a prequel to The Matrix trilogy we know and love. With young Morpheus being considered for the film's primary focus, and Michael B. Jordan only being around seven to eight years younger than Laurence Fishburne was when he started playing the role, there's at least a decade between The Matrix and this new film. Though, if they really want to push the age issue, Jordan could be playing a Morpheus in his mid-to-late 20's, if only so they can stretch things out a little.
