What is the order of the Matrix movies?

In 1999, sci-fi action movie, The Matrix uploaded itself into cinemas. The film followed the story of a computer programmer who discovers he is living in a virtual simulation of the real world, designed to keep him content while machines use his body as a power source.

Opening to rave reviews from critics, and a very positive response from audiences, The Matrix was one of the big success stories of 1999. The film took over $465 million at the box office, from a budget of $63 million, and helped to launch a franchise that included sequels, as well as a direct-to-video spin-off.

But how many Matrix movies are there and what is the correct viewing order? For all the details and more, prepare yourself for a data dump!

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The Matrix movies in order

To date there are five entries in the Matrix movie series. The movies appear in the following order:

• The Matrix (1999)
• The Animatrix (2003)
• The Matrix Reloaded (2003)
• The Matrix Revolutions (2003)
• The Matrix Resurrections (2022)

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Are all of the Matrix movies part of the same series?

All five movies are part of the same collection, although The Animatrix differs from the rest of the series as it is a direct-to-video animated title which focuses on side stories.

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Is The Animatrix essential viewing?

The Animatrix is composed of a collection of animated shorts and was designed as a companion piece to the main series. It is not essential viewing, but those who want to learn some of the lore from the Matrix universe will find some interesting stories in here.

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Are the Matrix movies the work of the same director?

The Matrix movies are the work of multiple directors. Lana and Lilly Wachowski (collectively known as ‘The Wachowskis’) directed The Matrix, The Matrix Reloaded, and The Matrix Revolutions, while Lana Wachowski directed The Matrix Resurrections.

The Animatrix was directed by KōJi Morimoto, Shinichiro Watanabe, Mahiro Maeda, Peter Chung, Andy Jones, Yoshiaki Kawajiri, and Takeshi Koike.

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And finally, who are the cast of the Matrix movies?

Notable cast members in the Matrix movie series include Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, Laurence Fishburne, Hugo Weaving, Joe Pantoliano, Gloria Foster, Ada Nicodemou, Jada Pinkett Smith, Monica Bellucci, Lambert Wilson, Gina Torres, Bruce Spence, Daniel Bernhardt, Neil Patrick Harris, Christina Ricci, Kevin Michael Richardson, John DiMaggio, Tom Kenny, Dwight Schultz, and Tara Strong.

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