Unknown Facts About the Matrix Movie Series

In 1999, the world was introduced to a groundbreaking action film that would change the landscape of the genre forever: The Matrix. This cinematic masterpiece not only showcased unparalleled special effects but also played a pivotal role in the evolution of filmmaking techniques. From its inception to its release, the creation of The Matrix was a story filled with intriguing behind-the-scenes details that are often overlooked by audiences.

Early Beginnings: The Birth of a Vision

The Wachowski siblings began developing their screenplay for The Matrix in 1994. Despite having a solid script, the fledgling filmmakers lacked the Hollywood clout necessary to get the film produced. They eventually secured a multi-picture deal with Warner Brothers through the sale of their script for the 1995 film Assassins, a project driven by Sylvester Stallone. Interestingly, the completed version of this film would later be regarded as an 'abortion.' If you have watched Assassins, you might understand why.

Directorial Debut and Success

The Wachowskis’ directorial debut came with the sexually-charged 1996 film Bound, which was a critical success. This film brought their unique vision to the screen and paved the way for their Greenlight to bring The Matrix to the big screen with a $60 million budget. Joel Silver, known for producing iconic films like Lethal Weapon, Demolition Man, and Richie Rich, joined the production as a producer.

Fight Choreography and Legendary Scenes

The creation of the film's legendary fight sequences is largely attributed to the stunt coordinator Woo-Ping Yuen. Initially, Yuen did not want to be involved, demanding a massive fee to provoke the Wachowskis to back off. However, he eventually agreed under the condition that he would have complete control over the fight sequences and months of time to train the actors. This decision would turn out to be one of the key elements in the film's success.

Technological Innovations in The Matrix

The Matrix not only pushed the boundaries of filmmaking with its unique narrative but also introduced groundbreaking techniques. One of the most iconic was the 'bullet time' effect, where Neo dodges bullets in slow motion. This technique allows specific action scenes to be captured in 360 degrees and played back in slow motion, creating a visually stunning experience. This innovation in visual effects would go on to influence countless films and actions sequences in the following years.

Box Office and Home Media Phenomenon

The Matrix was the first movie to sell 1 million DVDs, marking a significant milestone in home media history. This commercial success was not only due to its groundbreaking visuals but also the film's engaging narrative and profound themes. The movie's impact extended beyond the theater, further cementing its place in popular culture.

Rejection and Team Dynamics

Interestingly, some actors were initially rejected for the film. Notable rejections included Sandra Bullock, Brad Pitt, and Leonardo DiCaprio, highlighting the intense competition and high standards set for the project. Keanu Reeves, however, went above and beyond, choosing to share his earnings with the entire team involved in the film's recording, including makeup, sound, and lighting professionals.

Behind-the-Scenes Humor and Trivia

Some lesser-known trivia includes the fact that the code that appears on the screens when the Matrix is encoded is a Japanese sushi recipe. This detail adds a touch of humor and cultural insight to the film, making it even more immersive for viewers.

The Matrix shooting scene in the lobby of the building where the Agents were holding Morpheus took 10 days to shoot, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail required for such meticulously choreographed sequences. This extended shooting schedule paid off, as the scene eventually became a lasting iconic moment in the film.

Ironically, the name 'Morpheus,' meaning the god of dreams in Greek mythology, contradicts his role in the movie. This detail adds an interesting layer of confusion and intrigue, making the characters even more compelling to both the filmmakers and the audience.