(Image Source: Pinterest, Warner Bros. Pictures)
Last April, Warner Bros. Pictures abruptly announced plans for a fifth installment in "The Matrix" franchise. Drew Goddard, director of "The Cabin in the Woods," was tapped to write and direct, taking over from The Wachowskis, who helmed the first four films. Nearly a year later, "The Matrix 5" has seen no further developments—until early this morning, when Will Smith mysteriously released a cryptic teaser video, once again sparking widespread curiosity about the project.
(Image Source: Will Smith Instagram)
Many fans may recall that Smith was originally offered the lead role of Neo in "The Matrix" series. However, he declined to star in "Wild Wild West," another Warner Bros. production. "The Matrix" went on to become a massive success, while "Wild Wild West" bombed at the box office.
Years later, Smith appears to be revisiting that history. His new teaser video cleverly mimics classic "The Matrix" dialogue and scenes, featuring the following text: "In 1997, The Wachowskis offered Will Smith the opportunity to play Neo in 'The Matrix' series, but he refused and instead took 'Wild Wild West' because he felt 'Wild Wild West' was more suitable for him at the time. But a question still lingers: How would 'The Matrix' have been different if Will Smith were Neo? Wake up, Will, the Matrix has you..."
(Image Source: Warner Bros. Pictures)
This message has led many fans to speculate that Smith might be hinting at accepting a role in "The Matrix 5." Others, however, believe it could simply be a prelude to one of his usual comedic short videos. Variety magazine, meanwhile, reported that sources close to the actor confirmed Smith currently has no plans to join "The Matrix" franchise, though they were also unsure what he might be teasing.
What is certain is that "The Matrix 5" will no longer be written or directed by The Wachowskis. Even Lana Wachowski, who solely directed "The Matrix Resurrections," will only serve as an executive producer this time around. Whether Neo will be recast remains to be seen as further developments unfold.
January 31st Update:Smith later revealed the truth behind his recent teaser: it was, in fact, a promotional video for his new song, "Beautiful Scars." The track is "The Matrix"-themed, created by Smith to fulfill his long-standing regret of missing out on the iconic role. The full, nearly six-minute music video officially premiered on January 31st (see link above).
Smith performs the song and portrays Neo in the music video, recreating various classic "The Matrix" scenes. Rapper Big Sean also features on the track and appears in the video as Morpheus. Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, the directing duo who recently helmed "Bad Boys" installments 3 and 4 with Smith, were responsible for directing the music video.
via： Variety