The Matrix poster

The Matrix

"Believe the unbelievable."

Movie R 1999 2h 16m 8.2 /10
Directed by Lana Wachowski

On a crowded world dominated by machines, a skilled hacker known as Neo suspects something is off with the reality he faces. He is drawn into a shadowy resistance that claims the world outside is a lie and humanity is trapped in a simulated dream. Guided by a mysterious mentor and a fearless... Read more

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Where to Watch "The Matrix"

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Streaming availability last verified: January 29, 2026

About The Matrix

On a crowded world dominated by machines, a skilled hacker known as Neo suspects something is off with the reality he faces. He is drawn into a shadowy resistance that claims the world outside is a lie and humanity is trapped in a simulated dream. Guided by a mysterious mentor and a fearless fighter named Trinity, Neo confronts questions of identity and control while learning to bend the rules of this digital prison. As he trains and questions his own trust, he discovers that breaking free could change everything for a species at the mercy of its own artificial rulers. The film fuses sleek cyberpunk visuals with martial arts inspired choreography, creating a rhythm that feels both dystopian and exhilarating.

Directed by Lana and Lilly Wachowski, The Matrix released in 1999 as a landmark original science fiction film that reshaped action cinema. It challenged conventional stuntwork and used pioneering production techniques that influenced later films. Reception shaped future genre filmmaking.

The Matrix enjoyed a robust global release, turning into a major box office success and cementing its status as a defining 1990s science fiction film that connected with a wide audience across generations. Its visuals and ideas attracted many audiences.

Designed its signature look with slow motion, inventive wirework, and the now iconic red pill visualization, the film inspired a wave of imitators and became a touchstone for sci fi and action fans. It sparked conversations about reality, control, and human destiny in pop culture. Its influence extended into fashion.

Its themes of choice and control still fuel debates. The Matrix explores simulated reality, personal choice, and rebellion against a powerful system, arriving as both a thriller and provocative thought experiment. Its questions about reality versus perception continue to resonate as new technologies blur the line between truth and simulation.

What Viewers Are Saying

8.2/10
from 27,294 ratings

Viewers widely praise The Matrix for its groundbreaking special effects, innovative world-building, and thought-provoking story that remains relevant decades after its release. Audiences appreciate Keanu Reeves' performance and the stylish, captivating action sequences, although some note that certain fight scenes can feel overly stylized or cartoonish. The film's blend of philosophical themes, religious metaphors, and dystopian concepts earns recognition for depth and intellectual engagement. Overall, it is celebrated as a timeless and iconic action sci-fi classic.

Details

Release Date
March 31, 1999
Runtime
2h 16m
Rating
R
User Ratings
27,294 votes
Type
Movie
Genres
Action, Science Fiction
Country
United States
Collection
The Matrix Collection
Studio
Village Roadshow Pictures +3 more
Budget
$63,000,000
Box Office
$463,517,383
External Links
View on IMDB

Official Trailer

Cast

Keanu Reeves

Keanu Reeves

Neo

Laurence Fishburne

Laurence Fishburne

Morpheus

Carrie-Anne Moss

Carrie-Anne Moss

Trinity

Hugo Weaving

Hugo Weaving

Agent Smith

Gloria Foster

Gloria Foster

Oracle

Joe Pantoliano

Joe Pantoliano

Cypher

Marcus Chong

Marcus Chong

Tank

Julian Arahanga

Julian Arahanga

Apoc

Matt Doran

Matt Doran

Mouse

Belinda McClory

Belinda McClory

Switch

Director: Lana Wachowski

Written by: Lilly Wachowski

Frequently Asked Questions

The Matrix is not currently available on streaming subscription services, but you can rent or buy it on Apple iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu.

Yes, you can rent on Apple iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu or buy on Apple iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu.

With a rating of 8.2/10 from 27,294 viewers, The Matrix is highly recommended and considered excellent by most viewers.

On a crowded world dominated by machines, a skilled hacker known as Neo suspects something is off with the reality he faces. He is drawn into a shadowy resistance that claims the world outside is a lie and humanity is trapped in a simulated dream. Guided by a mysterious mentor and a fearless figh...

The Matrix stars Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss, Hugo Weaving, and Gloria Foster.

The Matrix was directed by Lana Wachowski.

The Matrix was released on March 31, 1999.

The Matrix is a Action and Science Fiction film.

Keanu Reeves plays Neo, a computer hacker who joins the underground insurgents to fight the machines. Neo is the central character who discovers the truth about the Matrix.

Laurence Fishburne plays Morpheus, a mentor and leader of the underground insurgents who guides Neo.

The Matrix won four Academy Awards, including Best Visual Effects, Best Film Editing, Best Sound, and Best Sound Editing. It also earned recognition from other film groups for its groundbreaking effects.

The film ends with Neo embracing his role as The One and signaling that the Matrix can be challenged, suggesting a future where humans and machines may interact in new ways. The ending leaves the outcome open to interpretation and sets up the broader story explored in the sequels.