When Keanu Reeves’ cult classic The Matrix began its production journey, it was clear that the mysterious filmmakers Lana and Lilly Wachowski were pushing the boundaries of filmmaking. Working in collaboration with Warner Bros., the Wachowskis’ ambitious project faced a number of challenges with casting, location, and even schedule.
But among all, the one thing that turned Warner Bros. increasingly impatient was lagged production. Initially expected to complete shooting in 90 days, Keanu Reeves’ The Matrix began falling significantly behind. To navigate this critical juncture, the Wachowskis devised a clever strategy that not only reassured the studio, but also secured the film’s future.
Keanu Reeves’ The Matrix Got Warner Bros. Frustrated Over Schedule
While the ambitious sci-fi epic The Matrix propelled Keanu Reeves to global stardom, the film’s production was marked by significant challenges and hurdles that almost shelved the movie. Filled with Hong Kong-style kung fu action and unprecedented special effects, the 1999 movie apparently took longer than expected to shoot, which eventually got Warner Bros frustrated.
According to reports from Looper, when filmmakers Lana and Lilly Wachowski embarked on their journey to shoot Keanu Reeves’ The Matrix, they faced the daunting challenge of meeting Warner Bros.’ 90-day shooting schedule. Known for its groundbreaking special effects and complex narrative, the film quite obviously overextended the allotted time for shooting.
As the production dragged on, Warner Bros. grew increasingly frustrated, and the Wachowskis began worrying about the outcome. Afraid that the studio might take drastic steps and possibly shelve the project, Lana and Lilly Wachowski devised a strategic move to secure the film’s future. In response to the growing pressure, the Wachowskis, in collaboration with special effects supervisor John Gaeta made a risky gamble.
The Wachowskis Executed a Bold Plan to Turn the Tide in Their Favor
On the DVD commentary for The Matrix, special effects supervisor John Gaeta discussed how filmmakers Lilly and Lana Wachowski devised a bold plan to save their visionary project. Explaining what really happened, Gaeta noted that Warner Bros. was growing increasingly impatient with the delay, and therefore the Wachowskis decided to deliver a polished and captivating opening sequence.
While it might seem easy, given that it had already been 90 days, it wasn’t a simple task since John Gaeta and the Wachowskis came up with the plan under pressure and had to execute the idea over a single weekend. But eventually, as they focused on completing and polishing the opening sequence, including its intricate visual effects, the trio were able to turn the tide in their favor.
[Warner Bros. immediately backed off] and at that point, they totally supported the movie. Gaeta shared.
Although a major gamble, their tactic proved successful, and the Wachowskis secured The Matrix’s future while setting the stage for a cinematic revolution. Impressed by the quality of the completed sequence and reassured by the tangible evidence of progress, Warner Bros. backed off and offered renewed support, allowing the Wachowskis to continue their work on the film.
Ultimately, the extended shooting schedule led to a total of 118 days – nearly a month longer than initially planned. However, this additional time allowed Lana and Lilly Wachowski to fully realize their vision for Keanu Reeves’ The Matrix, which would go on to revolutionize cinema with its innovative special effects and thought-provoking narrative.
The Matrix is available on Max.
