[ad_1]
Keanu Reeves is one of those stars whose presence instantly reminds fans around the world of the iconic Matrix film, which released 25 years ago. But did you know that it was The Matrix that actually revived the star’s career after it was in decline due to several unsuccessful horror films? Released in 1999, the film has a cult status and is considered to have brought about a symbolic change in sci-fi films. (Also read: The Matrix turns 25: Keanu Reeves’ seminal film is that rare sci-fi film in which nothing is silly)
casting for matrix
The story of its casting is another achievement altogether. From Brad Pitt to Leonardo DiCaprio, Will Smith to Johnny Depp, the lead role of computer programmer Thomas Anderson, a hacker using the alias ‘Neo’ was jumped by some of the leading young stars of the time. Additionally, according to a report by The Wrap, the producers had so much difficulty casting a male actor in the lead role that they initially suggested making a remake with a female lead, and wanted Sandra Bullock to be in it.
Leo was fresh off the runaway success of Titanic and was not eager to do another film that featured a lot of visual effects. Producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura also told the same publication that Brad Pitt rejected the offer. She revealed, “The first movie star to say yes is Brad Pitt, he’s doing ‘Seven Years in Tibet’ and then he’s coming out of it and he’s like ‘I’m too tired to do it’ ,’ That’s why he’s gone.” ,
continuing roles
Keanu was in many films which performed poorly. 1993’s Freaked received mixed reviews, and did no favors for Keanu, who starred in an uncredited role as Ortiz’s ‘The Dog Boy’. Then in 1994 came the successful action feature Speed with Sandra Bullock. This was followed by Johnny Mnemonic, Chain Reaction, Feeling Minnesota, The Last Time I Committed Suicide and The Devil’s Advocate, all of which received negative reviews and poor box office returns.
It was only with the risks that Keanu took with The Matrix, born Thomas A. Anderson, as a computer programmer who secretly works as a hacker named Neo, that it ultimately paid off. It collected $469 million on a $60 million budget and received rave reviews. what’s more? The film was even nominated for 4 Oscars, winning all the awards including Best Film Editing, Best Sound Editing, Best Visual Effects, and Best Sound.
Over the years, The Matrix has been dubbed by fans as one of the best science fiction films of all time. It also popularized a visual effect called ‘bullet time’, where a shot takes place in slow motion while the camera appears to be moving through the scene at normal speed. It also spawned two sequels, The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions. Keanu would taste more success a few years later, when he would play the role of John Wick.
Entertainment! Entertainment! Entertainment!Click Follow our WhatsApp channel📲 Your daily dose of gossip, movies, shows, celebrity updates in one place
[ad_2]
