If you’re trying to understand the Matrix movies, watching them in the right order makes a big difference. Start with “The Animatrix” to get some background about the Matrix universe. Next, move on to “The Matrix,” the first movie that introduces Neo and the main storyline. Follow that with “The Matrix Reloaded” and “The Matrix Revolutions” to continue the journey.
After completing these, you should watch “The Matrix Resurrections,” the latest film in the franchise. If you’re interested in more depth, “The Animatrix” offers several short films that expand on the universe’s background and lore. This approach will give you a complete and clear understanding of the series’ events and characters.
Matrix Movies in Order of Release
- The Matrix (1999)
- The Matrix Reloaded (2003)
- The Animatrix (2003)
- The Matrix Revolutions (2003)
- The Matrix Resurrections (2021)
Matrix Movies in Order Chronologically
The Matrix movie series includes several films and animated shorts. Viewing them in chronological order helps you understand the timeline and events better.
1. The Animatrix: The Second Renaissance, Part I and II
These animated shorts are essential to grasp the backstory of the Matrix universe. They focus on the origins of the war between humans and machines. You learn how human oppression led to the rise of sentient machines. You also see the crucial moments that sparked the conflict.
IMDb Rating 7.3/10
2. The Animatrix: A Detective Story
In this short, Detective Ash receives a mysterious offer to find Trinity. The film blends noir and sci-fi elements, giving you a unique view of the Matrix world. You witness Ash’s journey as he uncovers hidden truths and the dangers that come with them.
IMDb Rating 7.3/10
3. The Matrix
This is the first full-length movie in the series. Released in 1999, it introduces you to Neo, a hacker who discovers the simulated reality known as the Matrix. Guided by Morpheus and Trinity, Neo learns about his role in the fight against the machines. This film sets the stage for the entire series.
IMDb Rating 8.7/10
4. The Animatrix: The Kid’s Story
This short focuses on a high school student who feels something is off with his reality. He eventually awakens from the Matrix, thanks to Neo. His struggle and ultimate escape offer you an intimate look at how individuals can awaken to the truth.
IMDb Rating 7.3/10
5. The Animatrix: Final Flight of the Osiris
This film bridges the gap between “The Matrix” and “The Matrix Reloaded.” The story follows the crew of the Osiris as they attempt to warn Zion of an impending machine attack. The events here are crucial for understanding the larger plot arc.
IMDb Rating 7.3/10
6. The Matrix Reloaded
In the second movie, Neo, Trinity, and Morpheus continue their fight against the machines. You see Neo’s growing powers and meet new characters, like the Keymaker and the Merovingian. This film delves into the complexities of the Matrix and its control systems.
IMDb Rating 7.2/10
7. The Animatrix: Beyond
This short tells the story of a teenage girl named Yoko who is looking for her lost cat. Her search leads her to a haunted house that turns out to be a glitch in the Matrix. This film gives you a sense of the bizarre anomalies that can occur in the simulated world.
IMDb Rating 7.3/10
8. The Animatrix: World Record
In this short, an athlete breaks free from the Matrix through sheer physical determination. His monumental effort and the consequences he faces highlight the power of human will against the constraints of the simulated reality.
IMDb Rating 7.3/10
9. The Animatrix: Program
“Program” takes you into a simulated samurai training program. The story focuses on a warrior facing a moral dilemma about staying in the Matrix or returning to the real world. This short offers you deep insights into the characters’ emotional struggles.
IMDb Rating 7.3/10
10. The Matrix Revolutions
In this third movie, Zion is under siege, and Neo must confront Agent Smith one last time. The film wraps up many story arcs and leaves you with answers about Neo’s fate and the future of both humans and machines.
IMDb Rating 6.7/10
11. The Animatrix: Matriculated
This short explores the idea of converting machines to the human side. A group of rebels captures a robot and tries to reprogram it. This story adds another layer to your understanding of the complex relationships between humans and machines.
IMDb Rating 7.3/10
12. The Matrix Resurrections
In this recent installment, Neo and Trinity are brought back into the Matrix. The movie delves into new themes and reintroduces you to familiar characters in a changed world. This film aims to continue the story while exploring fresh ideas and concepts.
IMDb Rating 5.7/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the correct order to watch The Matrix series?
To watch The Matrix series in chronological order, start with The Animatrix. Followed by The Matrix, The Matrix Reloaded, and The Matrix Revolutions. Finish with The Matrix Resurrections.
How many films are in The Matrix franchise?
There are a total of four main films: The Matrix, The Matrix Reloaded, The Matrix Revolutions, and The Matrix Resurrections. Additionally, The Animatrix is an animated film related to the series.
Which movie comes first in The Matrix saga?
The first movie in the series is The Matrix which was released in 1999. It introduces the main characters Neo, Trinity, and Morpheus.
Was there a sequel to The Matrix Revolutions?
Yes, The Matrix Resurrections, released in 2021, is a sequel to The Matrix Revolutions. It continues the story of Neo and other main characters.
Why were two Matrix films released in the same year?
The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions were both released in 2003. The decision was made to create a two-part story and release them in the same year because they are directly connected in terms of plot.
Is it necessary to watch The Matrix films sequentially for understanding the storyline?
Yes, it is recommended to watch the films in order. This allows you to follow the storyline effectively and understand the development of characters and plot twists.
