The upcoming release of The Matrix 5 has sparked concerns about how the franchise will handle its established lore. With Keanu Reeves’ involvement uncertain, the fifth installment may need to address Neo’s absence in a way that preserves the canon. However, there is an existing workaround that could explain why someone other than Reeves can lead the new movie.
In The Matrix Reloaded’s Architect scene, it was revealed that Neo wasn’t the first One. According to the Architect, there were five versions of the One before Neo, each with their own unique story. This anomaly in the Matrix’s programming caused by human choice allows for a range of possibilities.
The Matrix 5 could explore one of these earlier iterations, introducing a new protagonist who isn’t Keanu Reeves’ Neo. This approach would allow the franchise to create a fresh story while respecting Neo’s importance as the One. Alternatively, the film could abandon its established lore and start anew, giving it higher stakes and allowing it to make or break its own canon.
Regardless of which path The Matrix 5 chooses, it will likely need to address Keanu Reeves’ potential absence. With Drew Goddard directing and Warner Bros. Pictures distributing, fans are eager to see how the franchise will evolve.
Source: https://screenrant.com/matrix-5-the-one-reloaded-architect-scene-no-neo-keanu-reeves/