The Matrix took a break from sci-fi in a new concept video. The beloved 1999 action film proved to have immense cultural influence, including Keanu Reeves' rise to prominence and the concept of a failed simulation. Since then, the franchise has had several sequels and several shorts. Each provides more insight into the complex, pre-existing world of Neo's horrific reality. At the same time, he continues to build on the universe's established lore while remaining in familiar surroundings.
A new video, however, deviates from these typical settings. In fan footage generated by YouTuber Jae Kingsley, the post-apocalyptic wasteland is converted into a traditional western:
The video is modeled after The good, the bad and the ugly (1966), and presents each main Headquarters star in western outfits. There is still typical Wachowski-style slow-motion fightsalthough characters also have gun battles and relax in taverns. It presents a unique image within a bizarre setting.
Would a Western version of The Matrix work?
Theoretically, it wouldn't work particularly well
It is undeniable that The Matrix achieved immense success within its existing concept. It grossed $1.8 billion across four films, which is a huge achievement for any franchise. The concept of the inner matrix was as gruesome as the action was thrilling, which certainly led to some positive responses to the franchise. Unfortunately, in recent years, interest in these films has waned. The recent Matrix Resurrections It was an extreme box office disaster, not even managing to recoup its budget:
|
Title |
Budget |
Domestic Box Office |
Worldwide box office |
|---|---|---|---|
|
The Matrix (1999) |
US$63 million |
US$172 million |
US$467 million |
|
The Matrix Reloaded (2003) |
US$150 million |
US$282 million |
US$742 million |
|
The Matrix Revolutions (2003) |
US$150 million |
US$139 million |
US$427 million |
|
The Matrix Resurrections (2021) |
US$190 million |
US$38 million |
US$157 million |
After the disappointing release, a Western production could easily reignite interest. This would be something completely new for the franchise, which would likely draw attention. It may still struggle at the box office, considering the recent release, Horizon: An American Saga: Chapter One, struggled to gain any traction. While yellow stone is thriving on TV, Westerns have fallen out of favor in theaters, which is a worrying trend. If The Matrix tries to capitalize on the Western genre, it may come too late.
Our opinion on the concept of Western Matrix
A parody could certainly work
With The Matrix 5 On the way, a Western adaptation could even provide new insight into the characters. After all, the same scenario has already been explored countless times, and the world of The Matrix has been developed beyond what anyone in 1999 could have imagined. A new take on the franchise could be interesting and also help redefine the existing narrative. The adaptation would never have worked as an original film, but a parody of the original concept could have worked brilliantly. After all, this unique trailer was quite fascinating.
Source: Jae Kingsley / YouTube