Zak Penn soon adds another hit film to his credit. He wrote the screenplay for “Ready Player One,” a sci-fi film directed by Steven Spielberg. The work is based on a popular science-fiction novel that maintains a huge fanbase. A larger fan base exists for the science-fiction trilogy of “Matrix” films. Reportedly, Penn has been pitching a new series of “Matrix” movies at Warner Bros. Penn has a strong relationship with Warner Bros. He did write a draft for “Suicide Squad 2” for the studio. Due to his relationship, he has been able to discuss continuing “The Matrix Universe” to listening ears. Penn even talked about expanding the universe, which is another way of pitching spinoffs like the ones audiences enjoy with new “Star Wars” films for Disney.
So far, Warner Bros. hasn’t done much besides listen. “The Matrix,” so far, remains a completed trilogy. Intentions for reviving the film franchise do not presently exist. This could, however, change. A few factors may lead to Warner Bros. to seriously consider a new “Matrix” franchise.
For one, Keanu Reeves made a successful comeback with the “John Wick” films. With his box office stature restored, his name on a “Matrix” series could help the box office. The “Star Wars” films prove a former lead can play a supporting role to establish new heroes. Reeves might be fine for that type of role as well.
And who said the new series would be limited to theatres? A “Matrix” television or streaming series could work as well. Perhaps releasing combinations of motion picture, television, home entertainment, and gaming projects might allow “Matrix” money to roll in.
Reasons do exist to be skittish about creating a new “Matrix” series. Science-fiction films don’t always turn into massive box office. The costs required to produce a science-fiction film further complicates matters. Just look at the high-profile failure of the excellent “Blade Runner 2049.” Warner Bros. also recently lost huge sums of money on the disastrous “Justice League” film. Current struggles with the DC Extended Universe may lead Warner Bros. to wish to avoid launching new shared universe projects. Warner Bros. must wait for the right time to greenlight such a huge project, though.
