A New ‘Matrix’ Movie Is In Development, With Drew Goddard Writing And Directing

Warner Bros. is revisiting The Matrix franchise with a new movie, with Drew Goddard taking the helm. Goddard, known for his work on acclaimed projects like The Martian, The Cabin in the Woods, and World War Z. The director has been selected to both write and direct a new installment in the Matrix series for the studio, Warner Bros. revealed on Wednesday.

This upcoming Matrix film marks the first installment in the franchise not directly involving creators Lana and Lilly Wachowski. However, Lana Wachowski will serve as an executive producer for the new project.

A New ‘Matrix’ Movie Is In Development, With Drew Goddard Writing And Directing

Details regarding the plot are being tightly guarded within the Nebuchadnezzar, but the studio disclosed that Goddard has presented a fresh perspective to expand 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,” Jesse Ehrman, the Warner Bros. Motion Pictures president of production commented. “The entire team at Warner Bros. Discovery is thrilled for Drew to be making his new Matrix film. Adding his vision to the cinematic canon the Wachowskis’ spent a quarter of a century building here at the studio.”

The Matrix Legacy is Still Living in Our Hearts

Released just over a quarter-century ago, The Matrix captivated audiences with its mind-bending narrative, groundbreaking special effects, and unforgettable performance by Keanu Reeves. Co-written and co-directed by the Wachowskis, the film unveiled a world where reality was a simulated construct, with humans unwittingly serving as power sources for sentient machines. It centered on Neo, a chosen savior figure destined to lead a rebellion against the oppressive system. Introducing the revolutionary “bullet time” effect, the film garnered critical acclaim, winning Oscars for its visual effects, editing, and sound design. With a worldwide gross of $467 million upon its release, The Matrix quickly became a cultural phenomenon, solidifying Reeves’ status as a Hollywood heavyweight.

Matrix Reloaded and Matrix Revolutions hit theaters quickly in 2003, receiving a mixed reception from critics and audiences. Reloaded garnered significant attention, amassing $741 million at the box office, indicative of the fervent anticipation surrounding the franchise.

However, Revolutions’ box office performance declined, earning $427 million. This reflected growing dissatisfaction among moviegoers, who felt the emphasis on visual effects overshadowed narrative depth.

Nevertheless, The Matrix continued to cast a long shadow over popular culture. It also prompted Lana Wachowski’s return to the franchise in 2021 with Matrix Resurrections. However, the film faced significant hurdles, such as a day-and-date release on streaming platforms. It also faced pandemic-related issues in theaters, ultimately grossing only $159 million worldwide. This lukewarm reception suggested that Neo’s journey might have reached its conclusion.

A Director With a Solid Background

Drew Goddard has a solid background in genre storytelling and is well-equipped to take on a project like The Matrix new movie. His career began writing for the 90’s hit series Buffy the Vampire Slayer. He then worked on hit series such as Angel, Alias and Lost. The director was the creator of Daredevil, the Marvel series on Netflix. He was also executive producer of the acclaimed drama series The Good Place. This series delved into fantasy realms akin to heaven and hell and starred an architect-like character.

Goddard has made significant contributions to feature films. He also wrote the monster movie Cloverfield and the horror film Cabin in the Woods, marking his directorial debut. He also received an Oscar nomination for his screenplay for The Martian, a critically acclaimed space drama directed by Ridley Scott and starring Matt Damon.

Featured Image Via Warner Bros. Pictures

I am a circus aerialist influenced by Dick Grayson and Spider-Man. Fortunate to write about the characters that inspired me. I also have a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and a Master's degree in International Trade.