The Matrix

From the Wachowskis’ imagination sprung this 1999 blockbuster and era-defining, reality-interrogating exploration of identity at the intersection of online and offline worlds. A computer hacker discovers the shocking truth—the life he knows is the elaborate deception of an evil cyber-intelligence—and joins the battle to destroy the illusion enslaving humanity. With its high-octane mix of action, groundbreaking special effects, philosophy, and techno-speak, this futurist drama starring Keanu Reeves as a wonderstruck, ass-kicking hacker stands up as one of the most influential films of our time.