Drew Goddard’s Upcoming Matrix Film Rumored to Return Iconic Franchise Lead

Warner Bros. Discovery is set to expand the Matrix universe with a new film helmed by director Drew Goddard, known for Bad Times at the El Royale. The project, announced in April 2024, marks the first Matrix movie not directed by the Wachowski sisters, though Lana Wachowski will serve as an executive producer.

The latest rumors come from scooper Daniel Richtman, who shared that “The idea is to have Keanu Reeves back for the next Matrix movie.” This suggests Neo’s story isn’t over yet.

The Matrix franchise began with the groundbreaking 1999 film, which earned widespread acclaim. Its 2003 sequels, The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions, received mixed reviews, and 2021’s The Matrix Resurrections, directed by Lana Wachowski without Lilly, struggled to win over fans.

Goddard expressed his passion for the project, stating, “It is not hyperbole to say The Matrix films changed both cinema and my life. 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.” Warner Bros. Motion Pictures President of Production Jesse Ehrman praised Goddard’s vision, saying, “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.”

He added, “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.”

This follows earlier rumors of a reboot starring Michael B. Jordan, which never materialized. In 2017, Warner Bros. explored various ideas, including a TV series, a prequel about a young Morpheus, or a story about his descendants.

Zak Penn worked on a script set within the original timeline, but those plans evolved into Goddard’s current project.

The Wachowskis initially resisted returning to the Matrix after 2003’s Revolutions. In 2015, Lilly called the idea “particularly repelling,” citing studios’ preference for sequels over original stories. Lana later suggested Warner Bros. might continue without them.

Both Reeves and Hugo Weaving previously said they’d return only if the Wachowskis were involved. After Resurrections, producer James McTeigue noted no immediate plans for more films but highlighted its open ending, leaving room for future stories.

With Goddard at the helm and Reeves potentially back, the new Matrix could blend nostalgia with innovation, aiming to recapture the franchise’s original magic.

A new Matrix with Keanu Reeves and Drew Goddard is an exciting chance to breathe life into a beloved series. Goddard’s respect for the original and his unique vision could strike the right balance, but I hope it avoids leaning too heavily on nostalgia and delivers a bold, fresh story. What do you think about the Matrix returning with Reeves and Goddard? Share your thoughts in the comments below!