Keanu Reeves’ The Matrix is now over 25 years old. While the movie is still relevant as ever and is just as eye-catching as it was when it was released, it is crazier to think that Neo first appeared over two and a half decades ago.
A classic science fiction movie, that has stood the test of time, the iconic black leather coat and sunglasses are still a fashion staple. Despite the passage of time, the film’s themes and visual effects remain as impressive as ever. But hidden among those is a hilarious reference to a Japanese sushi recipe that nobody ever noticed.
Keanu Reeves’ The Matrix and Japanese Sushi
One is a thrilling science fiction film, that explores the concept of a simulated reality. And the other is a delicious cuisine that continues to be enjoyed worldwide. And so it is bizarre to think that The Matrix and Japanese Sushi would even have something in common.
Yet that is the hilarious truth that viewers have failed to notice for decades now. If you are a fan of the neo-noir sci-fi flick or if have even watched it once, you must have noticed the hard-not-to-notice green falling code at the beginning of all Matrix movies.
The green code lines have now become part of many cyberholics’ life and generated loads of screensavers and whatnot. But what is apparently a representation of technological advancement and the digital age, is just a bunch of Japanese hiragana, katakana, and kanji characters along with some Arabic numerals and Western Latin Letters signifying some Japanese recipes.
Simon Whiteley, creator of the code, during an interview with CNET, stated,
“I like to tell everybody that The Matrix’s code is made out of Japanese sushi recipes. Without that code, there is no Matrix.”
Scanning the code from his wife’s Japanese cookbooks, the hilarious Easter egg has been unnoticed by a plethora of viewers. A testament to the attention to detail put into the making of the franchise, the code and the film is no less than a cultural phenomenon that has left a long-lasting impact on cinema and pop culture.
The Matrix has Also Been Used in Defence Trials
The Keanu Reeves-starrer Matrix has been an inspiration for many, a feat that can be seen in technology, fashion, music, or even academics. Its theme of questioning reality has been a staple for factions of academicians questioning ‘reality’.
While these discussions and influences seem grand and acceptable, it is bizarre to think that the movie’s plot has also been used in defense trials. Ever since the movie was released, there have been a couple of murder trials where the movie’s plot has been used by defendants to justify their horrendous actions.
A simple Google search will prove just how many times the Matrix Defense has been used by defendants to claim that they committed the crimes believing they were plugged into the Matrix. Even though this is a legacy that the Wachowskis would have probably not wanted, if anything these instances only prove just how famous the films are and how deep of an impact they have had on the people.
The Matrix can be streamed on Max.
