10 Mind-Blowing Revelations from Revisiting The Matrix After 25 Years

The Matrix, a groundbreaking sci-fi film, still holds up well 25 years after its release. While some parts of the movie may not have aged as gracefully, it remains a classic elevated action movie with scenes and storylines that outshine many modern blockbusters. However, even with its numerous strengths, certain moments remind us that no movie, no matter how influential, is without its flaws.

The success of The Matrix can be attributed to its unique blend of high-concept sci-fi and thrilling action. The story revolves around Thomas Anderson, also known as Neo, a programmer who discovers that the world is an illusion. Joining a group of rebels fighting against the Machines for humanity's freedom, Neo uncovers the truth about humanity's enslavement and faces off against the menacing Agent Smith. These elements set the stage for some of the most remarkable and inventive action sequences in cinematic history. Despite these standout moments, The Matrix does have its imperfections.

Morpheus And His Crew Really Are A Danger To Humanity

Morpheus in his red chair in The Matrix - Morpheus And His Crew Really Are A Danger To Humanity

Before Morpheus is properly introduced to Neo and the audience, Agent Smith describes the Nebuchadnezzar's captain as a "terrorist" and "possibly the most dangerous man alive". Given Smith's role as the primary antagonist and Morpheus' mission to free humanity, it's easy to dismiss this exchange as Machine propaganda. The truth, however, is that for all his good intentions, Morpheus and his crew really are a threat to humanity.

Despite painting himself as a soldier for humanity, Morpheus spends much of the movie murdering his fellow humans.

The CGI in The Matrix hasn't aged well.

Given that every human in the Matrix is plugged in, injuries they sustain in the simulation also affect their bodies in the real world. Although it's part of a bigger battle, Morpheus and the team therefore kill dozens of different people throughout the movie, gunning them down with little regard for their role as pawns for the Machines. Admittedly, every one of them is potentially an Agent, thanks to the Matrix's possession laws. Nevertheless, despite painting himself as a soldier for humanity, Morpheus spends much of the movie murdering his fellow humans.

Reality distorts in The Matrix - The Matrix's CGI Hasn't Aged Well

When The Matrix was first released in 1999, its visual effects were considered groundbreaking. However, 25 years later, some of the movie's major VFX scenes may not impress as much when compared to modern blockbusters. Particularly, scenes like the helicopter crash appear somewhat disappointing now, with the building's windows distorting in an unrealistic manner. This is especially noticeable when contrasted with the film's practical effects, such as those seen in the iconic lobby fight sequence, which still hold up remarkably well. It's clear that while some aspects of The Matrix's visuals have aged, others continue to shine.

Bullet Time Isn't As Cool As It Used To Be

Keanu Reeves as Neo dodges bullets on the roof in The Matrix - Bullet Time Isn't As Cool As It Used To Be

Cypher's Villain Story Doesn't Make Sense

Cypher's villain story in The Matrix is another aspect that falls short. The character's motivations and actions don't quite add up, leaving viewers scratching their heads. His betrayal of the group seems forced and lacks a convincing rationale. This inconsistency in Cypher's storyline detracts from the overall impact of the film.

Cypher During Neo's Extraction In The Matrix - Cypher's Villain Story Doesn't Make Sense

Joe Pantoliano's portrayal of Cypher in The Matrix provides another compelling supporting villain next to Hugo Weaving's Agent Smith. However, upon closer examination, Cypher's storyline raises some questions. The issue lies in the feasibility of his initial meeting with Smith at the steak restaurant, considering that plugging himself in without help seems implausible. Additionally, his request to "remember nothing" leaves him with no way to hold Smith accountable. While Cypher's narrative adds tension to the plot, it lacks coherence when scrutinized.

The Machine World Has Some Major Problems

The matrix plot hole machines kill humans when they wake up Neo - The Machine World Has Some Major Problems

Humanity's Survival Plan Was Always Going To Fail

One of The Matrix's most shocking moments comes when Neo is woken up from his induced coma and finds himself in the "real" world of the Machines. It's a simultaneously terrifying and awe-inspiring sequence that instantly lays out the stakes of the movie. However, it also has some serious problems. For starters, given that he has spent his life in complete suspended animation, it doesn't make sense that he would be able to instantly move and examine his surroundings. Furthermore, there's an unresolved issue around why the spider-like Machine simply doesn't kill him (and every other revived human) as they wake up.

Why The Matrix Kills People In The Real World - Humanity's Survival Plan Was Always Going To Fail

Morpheus tells Neo that during the war with AI, humans tried to defeat the Machines by cutting off their solar power source. But this plan had a big flaw. The sun is not just important for the Machines, but also for all living things on Earth. Blocking out its light would have been disastrous for both humans and Machines. Furthermore, thinking that the Machines would be easily defeated without the sun was probably too hopeful, considering the many other energy sources available on our planet.

The Sequels Wasted Some Great Characters

Tank in The Matrix - The Sequels Wasted Some Great Characters

The Machine's Matrix Plan Makes No Sense

The Matrix sequels have numerous disappointing aspects. One glaring issue that stands out upon a rewatch of the original movie is the decision to replace Tank after it appeared he survived. Tank, as an operator, exudes a charming and relatable energy that was sorely missed in the subsequent movies. Harold Perrineau's Link in The Matrix Reloaded simply did not measure up. The characters Apoc, Dozer, and Switch were all underdeveloped, and failing to include more of Tank in the sequels was a missed opportunity.

The Machine City and Neo in Matrix - The Machine's Matrix Plan Makes No Sense

The idea of a simulated reality in The Matrix is really clever. But when you dig deeper, you'll see some problems with the Machines' control plan. One issue is how obvious the simulation seems. The Agents, who can jump in and out of people's bodies, would make anyone suspicious. And it's not clear why the Machines need the Matrix when humans are already trapped in pods with no way out. Creating a whole fake world on top of that seems like too much.

Was Cypher Kind Of... Right?

Cypher Having Dinner With Smith In The Matrix - Was Cypher Kind Of... Right?

The Matrix Is One Of The Biggest Wasted Opportunities In Movie History

Cypher's betrayal of the Nebuchadnezzar crew is shocking and infuriating. Yet, upon reflection, his plan is not totally without merit. As he rightly points out, life in the real world is fairly miserable, with no proper food, dank conditions, and a constant scrap for survival. In the Matrix, by contrast, there is a kind of freedom available with the possibility to live a genuinely enjoyable life – albeit an artificial one. It may not sit comfortably with The Matrix's core idea of freedom and liberation, but there's no denying that Cypher makes a few uncomfortably pertinent points.

Morpheus talking about his dream in The Matrix - The Matrix Is One Of The Biggest Wasted Opportunities In Movie History

Rewatching The Matrix reminds us that despite some flaws, it remains an incredible sci-fi movie. The intricate and morally complex storyline not only entertains but also provokes deep thoughts. However, the forgettable sequels are a letdown. The Matrix ends with a glimpse of Neo's flight, setting the stage for what could have been an amazing movie series. Unfortunately, the legacy of The Matrix movies is one outstanding original and three missed chances.

Editor's P/S:

The article on The Matrix, a groundbreaking sci-fi film, provides a comprehensive analysis of its strengths and weaknesses. The film's unique blend of high-concept science fiction and thrilling action has stood the test of time, leaving an indelible mark on cinema. However, even with its numerous accolades, the article highlights certain flaws that remind us that no movie is immune to imperfections.

The article delves into specific scenes and plot points, exploring their impact and the reasons behind their effectiveness or shortcomings. It examines the inconsistencies in Morpheus's actions, the outdated visual effects, and the underdeveloped motivations of Cypher. While these flaws may not diminish the overall enjoyment of the film, they do provide a more nuanced understanding of its complexities and the challenges it faced in achieving perfection. Ultimately, the article serves as a reminder that even the most iconic films have their imperfections, but they can still captivate and inspire audiences for generations to come.