The Matrix played a key role in reshaping the sci-fi landscape in Hollywood. It was one of the most influential sci-fi projects and established Keanu Reeves as one of the biggest action stars. The fans are in shock as Warner Bros. has announced a fifth installment in the franchise. Following the failure of The Matrix Resurrections, nobody expected them to take a risk with The Matrix 5.
Several reasons led to the downfall of The Matrix Resurrections, with one of the primary reasons being the absence of Hugo Weaving. Although Jonathan Groff played the role of Smith, it was nothing compared to Weaving’s charismatic aura as the OG antagonist. While the fans have started brainstorming the possibilities of the events for the fifth film, Weaving’s return is undoubtedly crucial.
Why do we need Hugo Weaving back for The Matrix 5?
The Matrix, made by Lana and Lilly Wachowski and released in 1999, followed Keanu Reeves‘ computer programmer Thomas Anderson aka Neo in a fight against machines in a dystopian future. While Reeves and Carrie-Ann Moss played key roles in making the film a success and spawning three sequels, Hugo Weaving also did a splendid job by essaying the main antagonist, Smith.
It was primarily reported (via Collider) that Weaving could not return for The Matrix Resurrections due to scheduling issues. Although Jonathan Groff took over the baton and played the role, this Smith was very different from what we saw in the past three films. The deadly charm was missing and he was replaced as the primary antagonist by Neil Patrick Harris’ The Analyst.
The 2021 Matrix film suffered heavily due to Weaving’s absence and the severe change in Smith’s character. They took a new approach and drastically nerfed down the dreadfulness in Smith. Contrary to The Matrix Revolutions, where we saw Smith taking over the entire Matrix with his clones, the fourth part saw the two characters allying to fight against Patrick Harris’ The Analyst.
However, the makers left a way to bring back Hugo Weaving’s iconic character when they showed Agent Smith turning into a sentient program at the end of Matrix 4. It leaves an exciting scope for Hugo Weaving to return to his role as one of the best antagonists in The Matrix 5. Despite trying to add a fresh take on Smith, Jonathan Groff could never reach the level of Weaving’s iteration.
What do we know about The Matrix 5?
During the worldwide pandemic, Warner Bros. implemented a move for its 2021 slate and released the films simultaneously on HBO Max (presently Max). This had a devastating impact on The Matrix Resurrections‘ box office. Not receiving any help from the mixed reviews, the film went on to earn only $159 million on a $190 million budget (via The Numbers).
However, it looks like Warner Bros. has a lot of hope from screenwriter and director Drew Goddard who presented a lucrative idea to the studio. The Daredevil creator will helm The Matrix 5, which is set to be the first film in the franchise without the direction of Lana or Lilly Wachowski, though Lana Wachowski will act as an executive producer.
Variety reports that most of the plot details and information about returning cast members are kept under wraps. Resurrections saw many new faces like Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Jonathan Groff, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, and Neil Patrick Harris joining the franchise. The critical and commercial reception of the last installment may lead to the film bringing back more OG characters.
Warner Bros. Motion Pictures president of production Jesse Ehrman stated that Drew Goddard will continue Wachowski’s legacy but also add his unique perspective on the sci-fi franchise. It remains to be seen if the Bad Times at the El Royale filmmaker can revive the popularity of The Matrix franchise.
All The Matrix movies can be streamed on Max.
