Keanu Reeves Took Home A Unique Prop From The Original Matrix Movie
Over two decades after its release, "The Matrix" continues to be one of the most culturally influential films of all time. Beyond spawning a multimedia franchise and several sequels, "The Matrix" is beloved for its bombastic, tightly choreographed action sequences, inventive worldbuilding, and philosophical musings and themes, which continue to be dissected. Aside from making a boat-load of money and launching the careers of the Wachowskis, the sci-fi action-thriller all but emboldened Keanu Reeves' legend as an action hero. Though he was definitely considered a Hollywood household name thanks to "Point Break," "Speed," and the "Bill and Ted" flicks, it was "The Matrix" that further pushed his career.
Since his first appearance as Neo, Reeves has become synonymous with the character. And the actor hasn't shied away from how important the film was for his career. "Well, it changed my life," Reeves told Esquire in 2021. "And, it was such a wonderful creative experience [...] It impacted my life, personally and creatively." With the performance largely defining Reeves' career as thespian, is it all that surprising that the actor took home one of the most unique props from "The Matrix's" set?
Keanu Reeves took the red pill
In a Reddit AMA (Ask Me Anything) promoting the forthcoming release of his fourth "John Wick" outing, Keanu Reeves was asked by u/WarLordShoto if he's ever stolen anything from any of his film sets. The actor, candid as ever, confirmed that he's never stolen a prop, but he does have some cool trinkets, including an iconic part of "The Matrix." "Not stolen... the watch and wedding ring from 'John Wick,' a sword from '47 Ronin,' and the first red pill that the Wachowski's ever gave me," the actor replied.
Well, it looks like Reeves took the red pill, just like Neo. Decades later, the "blue and red pill" debate/conversation continues to persist in our culture. The terms have entered our lexicon, and while recent years have seen them be used controversially, it's hard to deny the impact they've had on the way we communicate certain ideas. Regardless of how the two pills are perceived now, it's fascinating that the Wachowskis gave Reeves the one thing that, arguably, defines their film (at least on the surface level). Previously, Reeves revealed that he snagged a plaque from the Nebuchadnezzar ship from the set of "The Matrix."