The Matrix

The Matrix

Year: 1999

Runtime: 136 min

Language: English

Director: Lana WachowskiLilly Wachowski

Budget: $63M

ActionAdventureSci-FiThriller

A computer hacker known as Neo discovers the shocking truth: his reality is a simulated world called the Matrix, created by machines to subdue humanity. Recruited by Morpheus and Trinity, he joins an underground rebellion seeking to free others from this digital prison. Neo must learn to manipulate the rules of the Matrix, confronting powerful agents and uncovering the secrets of his own destiny to fight for humanity’s liberation.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen The Matrix yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline – The Matrix (1999)

Trace every key event in The Matrix (1999) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Trinity and Cypher's Call

The movie opens with a conversation between Trinity and Cypher, two liberated humans. They discuss a mysterious individual that Morpheus believes may be 'the One,' hinting at the importance of this person's identity and destiny.

2-19-98 13:24:18
2

Trinity's Escape

As armed officers close in, Trinity confronts them defiantly in a hotel corridor. Despite being outnumbered, she showcases her combat skills, evading capture and alerting Morpheus that she's being pursued.

Heart O' the City Hotel
3

Agent Smith Arrives

Three Agents, including Agent Smith, arrive on the scene to track down Trinity. Agent Smith ominously warns a lieutenant that their men are already dead, indicating the formidable threat the Agents pose.

Heart O' the City Hotel
4

Trinity's Rooftop Chase

Trinity escapes onto the rooftops, where an exhilarating chase ensues. Utilizing her acrobatic prowess, she leaps between buildings, leaving the pursuing officers in awe as they struggle to keep up.

Rooftops of the city
5

Neo's Awakening

The narrative shifts to Thomas Anderson, also known as Neo, who is ensnared in a mundane life. He receives a series of cryptic messages urging him to wake up and follow the White Rabbit, signifying the beginning of his journey.

6

Meeting Trinity

At a nightclub, Neo encounters Trinity who warns him about the dangers surrounding him. She reveals her identity as a powerful hacker, indicating his life is at risk and pushing him to uncover the truth about the Matrix.

Rave bar
7

Morpheus's Warning

While at work, Neo receives a call from Morpheus, who warns him that the Agents are coming for him. Encouraged to escape, Neo must confront the reality of being pursued by these powerful entities.

Metacortex
8

Capture and Revelation

Neo is captured by the Agents and interrogated about Morpheus. They offer him a choice: betray Morpheus or face dire consequences, leading him to experience a terrifying confrontation.

Interrogation chamber
9

Meeting Morpheus

After a harrowing escape, Neo meets Morpheus who introduces him to the pursuit of truth. Morpheus reveals the truth about the Matrix and presents Neo with a life-altering choice between a red and a blue pill.

10

Discovering the Real World

Neo awakens in a terrifying reality where humans are imprisoned in pods, used as energy sources by machines. Morpheus greets him in the real world, emphasizing the dire situation they face.

A massive power plant
11

Training Begins

Neo begins training in the Matrix, learning combat techniques and gaining knowledge rapidly. Morpheus observes Neo's progress, leading to moments of realization about his potential and capabilities.

Nebuchadnezzar
12

A Visit to the Oracle

Morpheus takes Neo to meet the Oracle, who cryptically reveals that Morpheus will sacrifice himself and presents Neo with a choice to make. This visit plants the seeds of doubt and reflection in Neo.

13

Betrayal from Within

Tension escalates aboard the Nebuchadnezzar as Cypher betrays the crew, seeking comfort in the Matrix. This treachery creates a rift within the team, endangering their mission and lives.

Nebuchadnezzar
14

Confrontation with Agents

As Neo and his crew confront the Agents, a fierce battle ensues. Neo fights for survival amid chaos while grappling with the implications of Cypher's betrayal and the truth of his destiny.

15

Embracing Destiny

In the climactic battle against Agent Smith, Neo fully embraces his identity as 'the One.' He defies the limitations of the Matrix and harnesses his newfound powers, determined to reshape reality.

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 at 17:06

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Unlock the Full Story of The Matrix

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Matrix in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what The Matrix is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Matrix Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Matrix, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Matrix Summary

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The Matrix Spoiler-Free Summary

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