The Matrix Resurrections

“The Matrix Resurrections” is the latest film in “The Matrix” franchise, and the fourth film overall. Even with more than twenty years having passed since the original film was released in 1999, director Lana Wachowski has returned to the helm to make the best installment since the first, reinvigorating the series in the process.

Taking place decades after the events of the original trilogy, the film reintroduces the setting of the Matrix in a way that plays around with the events of the original installments (especially the first) while also makes for an intriguing film to potential newcomers. The story also manages to raise thought-provoking questions about the series’ impact and franchise reboot culture overall.

On top of Neo (Keanu Reeves) and Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss) returning, the film also contains an array of new characters such as the eccentric “Bugs” (Jessica Henwick) and the enigmatic Analyst (Neil Patrick Harrris). Existing characters such as Smith (Johnathan Groff) and Morpheus (Yaya Abdul-Mateen II) are also given a new spin while still respecting what made them memorable to begin with. Without any major spoilers, the journey that Neo and Trinity undergo to rediscover who they are across the film’s 148-minute runtime makes for one of the most thrilling franchise revivals in years. The film sports a massive $190 million budget, and the special effects and action scenes result in some of the most spectacular action in Wachowskis’ filmography.

Whether you’re watching the movie in theaters or on HBO Max, “The Matrix Resurrections” is a return to form that’s well worth recommending. The “time to fly” is now.

Directed by Lana Wachowski (Based on characters created by the Wachowskis)

Starring Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, Yaya Abdul-Mateen II, Jessica Henwick, Jonathan Groff and Neil Patrick Harris

Available in theaters and on HBO Max (Streaming till January 21)

Rated R