‘Matrix 4’ In the Works: Lana Wachowski, Keanu Reeves to Return
Turn of the century sci-fi classic The Matrix has been revived by Warner Bros., with original creator Lana Wachowski set to head up the creative team behind a fourth instalment.
The series, which concluded its central film franchise with the 2003 entry The Matrix Revolutions, had long been rumoured to be getting a reboot under the Warner Bros. banner, with reports from 2017 suggesting that Creed and Black Panther actor Michael B. Jordan was on board to star.
A statement from Warner Bros. Picture Group chairman Toby Emmerich, published in Variety, has however put these rumours to rest, instead confirming the return of the franchise’s original co-writer/director Lana Wachowski to the role of screenwriter/director for a fourth instalment in the pre-existing franchise:
“We could not be more excited to be re-entering ‘The Matrix’ with Lana. 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.”
As well as confirmation of Lana Wachowski’s involvement, it is being reported that original stars Keanu Reeves and Carrie-Anne Moss will return as Neo and Trinity respectively. Reeves, who has become somewhat of a cultural icon in recent years, is coming off the back of a successful summer that includes the box office hit John Wick 3, Netflix original rom-com Always Be My Maybe and the billion dollar Disney Pixar hit Toy Story 4.
The fourth instalment, although confirmed, is yet to be given a release date, though the picture will be co-produced and distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures and Village Roadshow Pictures, and is reportedly set to begin filming in 2020.
“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,” Wachowski said.
The original Matrix is due for a 20 year anniversary re-release in the US on August 30th.
[DISPLAY_ULTIMATE_SOCIAL_ICONS]