Will Smith Teases ‘The Matrix’ 5

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It appears that Will Smith has hinted at something related to the upcoming “Matrix” film being developed by Lana Wachowski and Drew Goddard, as suggested on social media.

Instead of taking on the role of Neo in 1997, which eventually went to Keanu Reeves, Smith opted for “Wild Wild West” instead. As we all know, that’s how things panned out, and the rest, as they say, became history.

It’s possible that history could reoccur, and Will Smith may feature in a fresh Matrix film. On Monday, Will Smith shared a video hinting at his potential role in The Matrix 5.

In 1997, the Wachowski’s proposed that Will Smith play the character of Neo in The Matrix. However, Smith declined the offer and opted instead for Wild Wild West, feeling it was more suitable for him at that moment. Yet, one cannot help but wonder: How might The Matrix have turned out if Will Smith had taken on the role of Neo?

Wake up, Will…”

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Why did Will Smith turn down The Matrix?

In the year 2019, Will Smith shared a video detailing his reason for declining the role offered in ‘The Matrix’. He mentioned that when the Wachowskis initially presented the film to him, it wasn’t particularly appealing at first.

I have a confession to make, one that I’m not particularly proud of but it’s the truth. In the movie “The Matrix,” I declined the role offered to me by Neo. Now, don’t jump to conclusions! That year, 1996, was quite chaotic in my life. It seemed like everything I touched turned into success. After starring in “Independence Day” the previous year, I felt that taking on another alien-themed movie would typecast me as the “alien-movie guy.” So, I also rejected the role in “Men In Black.” Steven Spielberg, the producer of the film, even called me to ask why I turned it down. I explained my reasons, and he replied, ‘I’ve got a better idea – don’t think about this one, just follow my instincts.’ Given that he directed “Jaws,” I couldn’t help but listen to him. Sometimes, you tap into the universal energy, and things seem to go right. But at other times, it feels like you can do nothing right.

Following the release of “Men In Black” [1998], the Wachowskis entered the scene, contributing primarily one film, titled “Bound”. Then, they presented a concept for “The Matrix”. Interestingly, they proved to be geniuses in their field, but the thin line between genius and what I encountered during the pitch meeting was apparent. Here’s the actual pitch they made for “The Matrix”:​

In the Wachowskis’ words: Picture this scenario: You’re engaged in a battle, about to leap. Now, imagine having the ability to pause yourself mid-jump.

As Will Smith: Say that again.​

We’ll set up cameras that capture your entire 360-degree jump, even when you pause mid-jump, allowing viewers to witness the full action. (This is said with the perspective and flair of the Wachowskis.)

As Will Smith: [Silence]

I created the movie “Wild Wild West”, but I’m not proud of it. You know when people come back from the weekend and we catch up? On Monday, I was like, “Hey everyone, sorry. Hear me out. I’m working on ‘Bad Boys 2’. Don’t worry about it. Sorry.” But it wasn’t as if… Keanu Reeves and Laurence Fishburne were spot-on for their roles. If I had taken charge because I am black, Morpheus wouldn’t have been played by a black actor since they were considering Val Kilmer. I was supposed to be Neo, and Val Kilmer was going to play Morpheus. So, I might have messed up ‘The Matrix’. I would have ruined it, so I saved you the trouble.

The Matrix 5 details

At this point, it’s unclear whether Will Smith will take on the role of Neo in the upcoming fifth Matrix movie, which is being produced. Similarly, there is no confirmation yet about the return of Keanu Reeves, Carrie Anne-Moss, Laurence Fishburne, Hugo Weaving, and Jada Pinkett Smith for the fifth installment.

It came as a shock when they announced the film back in April, since many believed that “The Matrix Resurrections,” released in 2021, marked the end of the series, and it didn’t receive great reviews.

The details include co-writer and co-director Lana Wachowski is executive producing the new film.

Drew Goddard and his partner Sarah Esberg are the producers, working through their production company Goddard Textiles, which they run together. Their notable works include ‘Moonlight’ and ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’.

Jesse Ehrman, Warner Bros Motion Pictures President of Production, said in a statement at the time:

Drew brought a fresh concept to Warner Bros Studios, one that we all think could magnificently expand the universe of ‘The Matrix’. This idea respects the foundation laid by Lana and Lilly nearly three decades ago while also incorporating Drew’s personal passion for the franchise. The team at Warner Bros Discovery is excited about Drew spearheading this new Matrix film, as it brings his unique perspective to enrich the cinematic legacy that the Wachowskis have cultivated at our studio over the years.

Drew Goddard said at the time:

To state the truth, not an exaggeration, the Matrix movies revolutionized not just cinema but my personal life as well. The extraordinary talent of Lana and Lilly Wachowski continues to inspire me every day, and I am deeply appreciative for being able to craft tales within their remarkable universe.

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2025-01-07 01:31