The Matrix

The Middle of Culture - The Matrix (1999)
In this episode, hosts Peter and Eden dive into the groundbreaking 1999 film The Matrix. Having not seen it in nearly 20 years, Peter watches it for the first time since the early 2000s, while Eden revisits this influential sci-fi classic.
First, we discuss what we have been checking out lately, with Eden discussing "Pupposites Attract" and Peter discussing his different approach to NaNoWriMo this year.
Then we dive into "The Matrix", discussing such things as:
The film's incredible lasting influence on cinema, fashion, video games, and popular culture
Stellar performances from the perfect cast, particularly:
Keanu Reeves as Neo
Laurence Fishburne as Morpheus
Carrie-Anne Moss as Trinity
Hugo Weaving as Agent Smith
Joe Pantoliano as Cypher
The revolutionary special effects and filming techniques, including the iconic "bullet time"
The movie's excellent pacing across its 136-minute runtime
Thoughtful use of reflections throughout the film to emphasize themes of reality vs simulation
Discussion of alternative casting choices that could have dramatically changed the film
The film's R rating despite relatively tame content by today's standards
Fun Facts:
Will Smith turned down the role of Neo to make Wild Wild West instead
The film made nearly $500 million on a $60 million budget
First in a planned series reviewing all Matrix films
Next Episode: The hosts will continue their Matrix journey with The Matrix Reloaded (2003).
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