The Matrix movies in order The Matrix Marathon
Page Last Modified:
9 December 2025
Most Recent Release:
The Matrix Resurrections - 2021
Total Runtime:
550 Minutes
Total Items:
4
Average User Score:
(7)Watching orders for The Matrix
The Matrix movies in order
Whether you're a die-hard fan or contemplating the red pill for the first time, a Matrix movie marathon is essential for any sci-fi lover. With four films, complex timelines, and a reboot-like sequel, the viewing order can be confusing. Fear not. We've crafted the ideal sequence for your marathon. All you need is popcorn, cola, and a comfy couch. From the groundbreaking original to the latest twist in the saga, here's how to maximize your binge. Ready to explore the virtual rabbit hole?
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1
The Matrix Movie 136 min. 1999Set in the 22nd century, The Matrix tells the story of a computer hacker who joins a group of underground insurgents fighting the vast and powerful computers who now rule the earth.USER SCORE 8 -
2
The Matrix Reloaded Movie 138 min. 2003The Resistance builds in numbers as humans are freed from the Matrix and brought to the city of Zion. Neo discovers his superpowers, including the ability to see the code inside the Matrix. With machine sentinels digging to Zion in 72 hours, Neo, Morpheus and Trinity must find the Keymaker to ultimately reach the Source.USER SCORE 7 -
3
The Matrix Revolutions Movie 129 min. 2003The human city of Zion defends itself against the massive invasion of the machines as Neo fights to end the war at another front while also opposing the rogue Agent Smith.USER SCORE 7 -
4
The Matrix Resurrections Movie 147 min. 2021Plagued by strange memories, Neo's life takes an unexpected turn when he finds himself back inside the Matrix.USER SCORE 6
The Matrix (1999)
Kick off your marathon with the 1999 sci-fi cyberpunk classic that started it all. Meet Neo (Keanu Reeves), a hacker with more questions than answers, until he encounters Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne) and Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss) and chooses the red pill. This decision plunges him into a world of bullet-time action, digital training, and philosophical puzzles about free will, reality, and identity. Created by the Wachowskis and produced by Warner Bros Pictures and Village Roadshow Pictures, this film isn't just an action flick it's a cultural milestone that redefined sci-fi.
Here, you're introduced to concepts like the Matrix simulation, Sentinel machines, the Oracle program, and the idea of the "chosen one." You discover Zion, the last human city, and face the threat of Agent Smith (Hugo Weaving). Skipping this film means missing the foundation of everything that follows.
The Matrix Reloaded (2003)
Reloaded continues the story with enhanced action, philosophy, and visual effects. As the human resistance in Zion braces for a massive machine attack, Neo explores his powers and deepens his bond with Trinity. The film introduces the Merovingian (Lambert Wilson), Persephone (Monica Bellucci), the Keymaker, and the legendary freeway chase scene, a benchmark for practical effects.
Reloaded delves deeper into the Matrix's structure, revealing the Architect program and previous iterations of the "chosen one." It features the infamous Burly Brawl, an epic fight between Neo and an army of Smith copies. The world expands, offering answers (and more questions) essential for the sequel.
The Matrix Revolutions (2003)
Revolutions concludes the original trilogy with an explosive climax to the man-machine war. As Zion faces a Sentinel onslaught, Neo embarks on a mission to Machine City. Themes of sacrifice, rebirth, and balance reach their peak.
The film ties up multiple storylines, delivering an epic, grand, and emotional ending. Fans of human resistance, virtual world hacking, and metaphysical sci-fi thinking find their reward here. And yes, Neo and Trinity's relationship reaches its most poignant moment.
The Matrix Resurrections (2021)
Leap forward with a significant twist. The Matrix Resurrections isn't just a sequel; it's a meta-commentary on its own existence. Keanu Reeves returns as an older, disoriented Neo, who must once again discern reality from simulation. In this new Matrix, crafted by the Analyst (Neil Patrick Harris), nothing is as it seems.
Meet new characters like Bugs (Jessica Henwick) and a revamped Morpheus in program form (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II), while familiar faces evolve in surprising ways. The Analyst has rewritten the rules, and the modal simulation adds complexity. Yet, the core questions remain: what is real, and who are you in a world that constantly manipulates you?
Why This Order Works
The strength of this chronological order lies in its comprehensive development of the Matrix universe, from the initial discovery of the simulation to the resurrection of Trinity and Neo in a new Matrix. Starting with the original trilogy immerses you in world-building, characters, and cyberpunk mythology. Resurrections feels like a reinterpretation and reflection that truly resonates once you know the full story.
Let's face it: a Matrix movie marathon is everything a movie night should be. Philosophy wrapped in kung-fu, iconic wirework, glitches in the simulation, and of course, infinite black leather jackets. So silence your phone, dim the lights, and prepare for a cinematic experience that challenges your sense of reality.
Tips for Your Ultimate Matrix Binge
Here are a few quick hacks for your marathon night:
1. Plan breaks between Reloaded and Revolutions. These films are meant to be seen as one, but a short snack break in between works wonders.
2. Pay attention to recurring symbolism (mirrors, black cats, white rabbits). These films have more layers than a lasagna.
3. Maximize your screen size. The Wachowskis' visual style is designed to engulf you.
4. Watch with friends who love theories and philosophical discussions. You'll need them after the Architect monologue.
5. And yes, wear black. Just for the vibe.
With this chronological order, you're set for an evening (or weekend) full of virtual action, digital poetry, and a hefty dose of existential questions. So... red pill or blue pill?