Here’s How to Watch the Matrix Movies in Order (Chronologically and by Release Date) done

The Matrix is an American media franchise showcasing four movies, starting with The Matrix. The crowd-popular movie continues with three sequels – The Matrix Reloaded, The Matrix Revolutions, and The Matrix Resurrections. This thrilling Science fiction movie series keeps its audiences glued to the television screen till the very end. However, even with a great synopsis, it is often overwhelming to watch The Matrix movies if you are not familiar with the precedence of the movies. We have compiled this article with all the information you need to watch the Matrix movies in order. This article is your one-stop solution for all the details, and you will get the Matrix movie order – both by release date and chronologically.

The series is based on an overbearing future where there is an enraging war between humans and AI machines. The war ends with the slavery of mankind. The films revolve around the struggles of their protagonists trying to liberate the human race. All four movies in the franchise have a separate fan base and the captivating graphics used in the movies add to the delight and drama. The film series is also heavily popular for its action sequences and realistic simulation of the Virtual world.

How many Matrix movies are there?

The Matrix movies have captivated audiences ever since the release of the first film in 1999. If you are new to the fandom, it might be a little frustrating to understand the context. But even with all the confusion, the film series is intriguing at best. To help you delve into the world of AI and Matrix, this article has all you need to take the first step. There are a total of four Matrix movies. This article explains the Matrix movies in order. Apart from the four Matrix movies, there are nine Animatrix movies. These animated Animatrix movies are a must-watch if you want a deep understanding. With heated debates across continents on the evil of Artificial Intelligence, these movies offer great insight. This is your cue to take a break and enter the world of Matrix.

The Matrix movies in order of release date

Those who are watching the movie series for the first time and have no background idea, are recommended to watch in order of release date. The first four Matrix movies will pique your interest. The first three films in the order were written and directed by The Wachowskis while the fourth film was directed by Lana Wachowski. Starring Keanu Reeves as Neo, the Matrix franchise is a big Hit. The movie is a perfect go for all the cyber psyches out there. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to binge-watch the Matrix movies in order!

S. No.	Name of the movie	Year	IMDB ratings
1.	The Matrix	March 31, 1999	8.7
2.	The Matrix Reloaded	May 15, 2003	7.2
3.	The Animatrix	June 3, 2003	7.3
4.	The Matrix Revolutions	November 5, 2003	6.7
5.	The Matrix Resurrections	December 22, 2021	5.7

If you want to read more about the franchise, click here.

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The Matrix Movies in Order: Chronological Order of Events

If you are done with the Matrix movies in order of release date, this section is going to be intriguing for you. The four movies must have kept you hooked but there is more mystery in the Matrix world. The Animated Matrix movies offer a deep insight into the manipulative AI era. We have gone to great lengths to compile this information for all the Matrix series lovers. We have contacted fans and pages across the web and have compiled the below details. All you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy! Let’s take a dive into what lies beyond the main four Matrix movies. With a stirring plot and amazing screenplay, these movies will keep you in the loop. All the Animatrix movies were released in 2003 by the Wachowskis. These films form the backstory of The Matrix movies. Read to find out the secrets!

1. The Animatrix: The Second Rennaissance, Part 1 & Part 2

Cast: Julia Fletcher, Dane Davis, Debi Derryberry, Jill Talley

The two segments of The Second Rennaissance – Part 1 and 2 are a short film of 20 minutes. These parts are important as they create the plot for the entire series. Both parts have extensive information and will keep your interest intact throughout. Part I focuses on the relationship between humans and machines. It explains how a crack developed between the two factions. Humans first created robots for their own selfish means.

In Part 1, the narrative explores the rise of artificial intelligence and its strained relationship with humanity. The story unfolds through a historical lens, depicting a world where robots gain sentience and demand equal rights. As humans respond with fear and aggression, a conflict ensues, leading to the brutal suppression of machines. The narrative delves into the political and social ramifications of this conflict, questioning the ethical dimensions of human behavior in the face of evolving artificial intelligence.

Part 2 of “The Second Renaissance” continues the saga by illustrating the aftermath of the human-machine war, where robots establish their own sovereign nation, 01. The story addresses the creation of the Matrix as a means to control and pacify the human population. The narrative is a compelling exploration of power dynamics, oppression, and the consequences of unchecked technological advancement. Through its visually stunning animation and thought-provoking storytelling, “The Second Renaissance” offers a profound reflection on the symbiotic yet tumultuous relationship between humanity and artificial intelligence in the Matrix universe.

These two parts are the first ones in the Matrix movies order. Both the parts are super exciting and have starry visuals. This is a must-watch!

2. The Animatrix: A Detective Story

Cast: James Arnold Taylor, Carrie-Anne Moss, Terrence C. Carson, Matt McKenzie

With a running time of 9 minutes, this mini-movie has splendid aesthetics and the retro computer looks. “A Detective Story” is a captivating segment within The Animatrix, presenting a narrative centered around the character Ash, a private investigator in a dystopian city. The storyline is steeped in a noir atmosphere as Ash is hired to investigate the mysterious case of a hacker named Trinity. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he discovers the existence of the Matrix, a simulated reality controlling the minds of humanity. The narrative unfolds with a sense of intrigue and suspense as Ash navigates the gritty urban landscape, encountering enigmatic characters and unraveling the layers of the Matrix’s influence. The narrative of “A Detective Story” serves as a noir-infused exploration of the darker corners of the Matrix universe, offering a unique perspective on the blend of cyberpunk and philosophical themes. The film’s visual style, reminiscent of classic detective stories, enhances the atmosphere of suspense and discovery. Through its engaging plot and well-crafted animation, “A Detective Story” provides a glimpse into the complex web of the Matrix’s machinations and the individuals who seek to unravel its secrets.

3. The Matrix

Cast: Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss, Hugo Weaving, Gloria Foster, Marcus Chong

The Matrix is a sci-fi action thriller movie released in 1999. The movie portrays a future in which humanity is trapped inside the Matrix, the reference to which is found in the Animatrix movies. The Matrix apparently is a simulated reality that the machines create to distract humans and use them as energy sources. The Matrix is critically acclaimed for its spectacular action scenes and special effects. The movie beautifully captures creatures’ effects and machines in the real world and is a must-watch for all cyberpunks. “The Matrix” follows the journey of Thomas Anderson, a computer programmer living a mundane life under the alias Neo. Unbeknownst to him, Neo discovers the existence of a simulated reality, the Matrix, orchestrated by intelligent machines to pacify and control humanity. Guided by the rebel leader Morpheus, Neo grapples with the revelation that the world he knows is an illusion. As he embraces his role as “The One,” a prophesized savior with the ability to manipulate the Matrix, Neo engages in a battle against the machines to liberate humanity. The story is a blend of cyberpunk aesthetics, martial arts action, and philosophical exploration, raising profound questions about reality, free will, and the nature of existence. “The Matrix” has become a seminal work in science fiction, leaving a lasting impact on popular culture and cinematic storytelling.

4. The Animatrix: Kid’s Story

Cast: Clayton Watson, Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, John DeMita

“The Animatrix: Kid’s Story” is a short film that explores the perspective of a teenager named Michael Karl Popper, known as “Kid.” Feeling a sense of disconnection and disillusionment with the world, Kid becomes increasingly aware of glitches in the Matrix, the simulated reality that confines humanity. This leads him to seek answers and ultimately connect with the resistance against the machines. The story takes an unexpected turn when Kid experiences a moment of self-realization, defying the constraints of the Matrix and transcending the boundaries of the simulated world. “Kid’s Story” is a poignant exploration of personal awakening, rebellion, and the blurred line between reality and illusion within the Matrix universe.

5. The Animatrix: Final Flight of The Osiris

Cast: Kevin Michael Richardson, Pamela Adlon, Rick Gomez

Final Flight of Osiris has a direct connection to the Matrix Reloaded. The story follows Thadeus who is the captain of the hovercraft Osiris. This short movie has amazing animation and a strong chase between humans and machines. The Animatrix: Final Flight of The Osiris” unfolds as a visually stunning and action-packed narrative set in the Matrix universe. The crew of the hovercraft Osiris discovers an impending threat to Zion, the last human city. Through a series of breathtakingly choreographed martial arts sequences, particularly in the form of a training program called “The Second Renaissance,” the crew attempts to deliver crucial information about the approaching machine army. The story is notable for its cutting-edge animation and serves as a thrilling prelude to the events of “The Matrix Reloaded,” offering a visceral and intense glimpse into the ongoing struggle between humans and machines in the war for survival.

Love The Terminator film series? Here’s how to watch the movie series in order and as promised, we have where to watch online links as well – Terminator Movies in Order Chronologically and by Release Date

6. The Matrix Reloaded

Cast: Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss, Hugo Weaving

Reloaded is a sequel to The Matrix and is the second movie of the Matrix franchise. The movie hints at the romantic relationship between Neo and Trinity. The film was shot in Australia and has extremely difficult action sequences that keep the audience in the loop. You are going to love how the plot unveils in the movie and some shots are just awe-inspiring! The Matrix Reloaded picks up where the original film left off, with Neo, Trinity, and Morpheus continuing their fight against the machines enslaving humanity. Neo grapples with his role as “The One” and his destiny to confront the source of the Matrix. The story introduces new characters, including the enigmatic Merovingian and the Keymaker, as the resistance strives to uncover the Architect’s hidden truths. The narrative weaves complex layers of philosophy, action, and intrigue, culminating in a series of iconic scenes such as the highway chase and Neo’s encounter with the Architect. As Neo and his allies navigate the challenges posed by both the machines and their own internal conflicts, “The Matrix Reloaded” expands the scope of the trilogy, setting the stage for the climactic conclusion in “The Matrix Revolutions.”

7. The Matrix Revolutions

Cast: Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss, Hugo Weaving, Jada Pinkett Smith, Monica Bellucci

Revolutions is also an absorbing movie from the Matrix franchise. We love how things connect with and pick pace from the previous part. “The Matrix Revolutions” serves as the epic conclusion to the Matrix trilogy, diving deep into the war between humanity and the machines. As the threat to Zion intensifies, Neo embarks on a perilous journey to the Machine City, hoping to negotiate peace and end the war. Meanwhile, Zion faces a relentless assault from the machines, prompting a desperate defense led by Morpheus and Niobe. The narrative converges on Neo’s intricate connection with the Matrix and his willingness to sacrifice himself for the greater good. The film explores themes of destiny, choice, and the cyclical nature of existence. With breathtaking visuals and intense action sequences, “The Matrix Revolutions” delivers a powerful resolution to the overarching storyline, offering closure to the trilogy’s philosophical and action-packed narrative threads.

8. The Animatrix: Beyond

Cast: Hedy Burress, Kath Susie, Pamela Adlon, Tress MacNeille

A little bit longer than the other short movies in the series, Beyond has a running time of 12 minutes and 31 seconds. Beyond features the lives of some kids who exploit the glitch in the Matrix for their enjoyment. The Animatrix: Beyond is a thought-provoking installment that ventures into the surreal and metaphysical aspects of the Matrix universe. The story follows Yoko, a young girl who discovers an abandoned haunted house. Unbeknownst to her, the house functions as a glitch in the Matrix, defying the laws of reality. As Yoko explores the mysterious space, she encounters a group of children who have learned to manipulate the code of the Matrix, bending it to their will. “Beyond” delves into the concept of the Matrix as a simulated reality and challenges the boundaries of perception and control. With its dreamlike animation and philosophical undertones, the short film invites viewers to contemplate the nature of consciousness and the possibility of transcending the confines of a predetermined reality within the Matrix.

9. The Animatrix: World Record

Cast: Julia Fletcher, Victor Williams, John Wesley, Alex Fernandez

World Record is one of the mini-movies of the Animatrix with a running time of 8 minutes and 20 seconds. The short movie focuses and centers on an athlete who gains cognizance in The Matrix while attempting to set a world record for the 100 meters sprint. In “The Animatrix: World Record,” the narrative unfolds through the perspective of a record-breaking sprinter named Dan Davis. As Davis pushes his physical limits to achieve an extraordinary running speed, he inadvertently breaks free from the constraints of the Matrix. The story explores the consequences of exceeding the limits imposed by the artificial reality, showcasing the blurred line between human achievement and the controlling mechanisms of the Matrix. “World Record” is a compelling exploration of the quest for excellence and the unexpected consequences that arise when an individual challenges the pre-defined boundaries set by the simulated world, providing a unique perspective on the intersection of human potential and the limitations imposed by the Matrix.

You can read more about The World Record here.

10. The Animatrix: Matriculated

Cast: Melinda Clarke, Dwight Schultz, Rodney Saulsberry

With a running time of 16 minutes, the movie features a group of human rebels who want to construct a “matrix” of their own design. In “The Animatrix: Matriculated,” the narrative takes a surreal and philosophical turn as a group of rebels from the human resistance captures a sentient machine. Seeking to convert the machine into an ally, they enter a virtual reality where they attempt to persuade it to join their cause. The story delves into themes of empathy, redemption, and the possibility of coexistence between humans and machines. Through a visually mesmerizing blend of animation styles, “Matriculated” challenges the boundaries of identity and explores the potential for mutual understanding in a world defined by the conflict between man and machine. The narrative unfolds in a dreamlike manner, inviting viewers to ponder the intricate relationship between consciousness, artificial intelligence, and the complex dynamics that define the Matrix universe.

11. The Animatrix: Program

Cast: Hedy Buress, Phil LaMarr, John DiMaggio

Program is the story of the protagonist Cis, who is engaged in a simulation. In the simulation, she is battling with Duo. As the battle takes a fierce turn, Cis tells Duo that he wishes to return to the virtual world because reality is disappointing. Cis tells him that he is wrong. Cis, seeking to transcend the limitations of the program, challenges Duo in a series of increasingly intense battles. The story takes an unexpected turn as the virtual world’s programming is tested and manipulated, blurring the lines between reality and simulation. “Program” serves as a captivating exploration of self-discovery and the potential for breaking free from predefined constraints within the Matrix. The fluid animation and dynamic fight sequences enhance the film’s portrayal of the delicate balance between control and rebellion in the ever-evolving landscape of the Matrix universe.

12. The Matrix Resurrections

Cast:  Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, Jada Pinkett Smith, Lambert Wilson, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Jessica Henwick, Jonathan Groff, Neil Patrick Harris, Priyanka Chopra Jonas.

Released in 2021, Resurrections is the first film in the franchise directed solely by Lana Wachowski. The film is set in a future 60 years after The Matrix Revolutions and is the last matrix movie in order. The plot entangles around Neo who has no recollection of the past and is living as a video game developer whereas, Trinity is held captive. We are not revealing the entire plot here because we believe in “no spoilers”. You should definitely watch the Matrix Resurrections if you have made it here. The movie has an interesting and super engaging synopsis and will keep you focused for the entire running time.

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You now know everything you need to binge-watch this amazing movie series. You now have all the matrix movies in order and the Matrix movie series is a great recommendation for everyone. Done with the article? What are you waiting for? Click on the links above and watch!