It sometimes feels like we are living in The Matrix. You must have heard or used the saying “glitch in the Matrix” when something happens that you can’t fully understand or explain. These phrases come from the cult classic 1999 film The Matrix.
If you’ve not seen the film franchise, the story surrounds Thomas Anderson, a computer programmer who is led to fight an underground war against powerful computers. These computers have constructed his entire reality with a system called The Matrix, which is essentially a computer-generated dream world designed to keep humans under control. Sound familiar? Sound like your future? A lot of films have clearly been inspired by this topic, and I’m sure many more will.
At the core of The Matrix is the idea that reality is an illusion, and something is being covered up by some higher force, whether it be the government, secret organization, or “them.” Here is a list of 10 movies that share similar themes to The Matrix that you should watch if you need that kick-ass, alternate reality but non-superhero fix.
10 Movies similar to The Matrix
Inception (2010)
A Christoper Nolan classic with a star-studded stellar cast, Inception is a whirlwind of a watch that will leave you in confused awe. The film makes its cast and viewers question what is reality as they’re plunged into a world where people can influence each other’s dreams. Protagonist Dom Cobb (Played by Leonardo DiCaprio) takes a job to plant an idea in someone’s subconscious, but for this target, he needs the help of a highly skilled team. Filled with action, drama, tension, and amazing plot twists, this is one to watch first.
Looper (2012)
Rian Johnson’s steady sci-fi drama Looper is an excellent watch for its time travel aspects. Now while this isn’t specifically mentioned in The Matrix, there is a similar trope used. In the story, there is a haunting reality in the future where crime and chaos are the normality. Bruce Willis and Joseph Gordon-Levitt have great chemistry in this twisting narrative that will keep you hooked from the start.
Tenet (2020)
Here we are with another Christopher Nolan masterpiece of work. Is Tenet the most confusing film ever? Maybe. But don’t let that stop you. It’s a time-twisting science fiction thriller where a group of people tries to keep the Earth’s timeline flowing. However, when a few objects can be manipulated and used as weapons, the future of the world falls into the wrong hands. Now a CIA operative must save the world.
Minority Report (2002)
A science-fiction thriller set in a dystopian future, where police chief John Anderton (Tom Cruise) is given the task of using predictive technology to track down criminals before they commit murder. On this quest, he is accused of the future killing of a man he’s never met. More action and thrills than questioning reality, but never-the-less a great sci-fi film.
Equilibrium (2002)
Following the theme of science fiction action films, this one is set in an oppressive future where all forms of feeling are illegal. Without emotions, people are easier to manipulate and control. There is one man in charge who must enforce this law, but he rises to overthrow the system and state. Written and directed by Kurt Wimmer, the cast includes Christian Bale and Emily Watson. The film has a lot of fighting scenes, and its message is about love, truth, and what is best for our reality.
Blade Runner 2049 (2017)
A current theme amongst these films is the dystopian world, where reality is questioned or at stake. This film is the sequel to Ridley Scott’s neo-noir sci-fi film Blade Runner, set thirty years later after the original movie, and Ryan Gosling plays K, a replicant Blade Runner who uncovers a secret that could destabilize society.
The Truman Show (1998)
Stepping away from action films, here we have the wonderfully tear-jerking film, which really showcases Jim Carrey’s acting ability. This film is a satirical psychological comedy-drama, where a salesman (Carrey) is completely unaware that his life is a TV show and his family are actors. As he begins to question his reality, he slowly discovers the truth and decides to escape.
The Fifth Element (1997)
Probably one of the best and most well-known films in the sci-fi genre, The Fifth Element has an excellent storyline, great acting, and memorable characters. It surrounds Korben Dallas, a cab driver who tries to secure four mystical stones and a mysterious fifth element that alone can defeat a cosmic evil force. While it’s lighter, both in tone and color, than The Matrix, it does have similar themes and is a must-watch for any sci-fi fan.
Lucy (2014)
Lucy is great for the strong female protagonists, as she gains extraordinary physical and mental capabilities after the effects of a performance-enhancing drug. In the film, she evolves into a warrior bent on destroying those who held her captive. Starring the gorgeous kick-ass star Scarlett Johansson, this is an excellent prequel for her future action films.
V for Vendetta (2005)
Ending this list with another strong female lead, we have the critically acclaimed V for Vendetta. Starring Hugo Weaving, who plays Agent Smith in The Matrix, this film has a well-concocted story-line and dialogue to keep you intrigued and entertained until the end. It’s set in a future dystopia where the British government rules with an iron fist. “V for Vendetta” centers upon Evey (Natalie Portman), a fearful citizen who is radicalized by a faceless vigilante (Weaving). With drama, intrigue, and excellent acting, this is one for the watch list.
Do you have any other recommendations for movies similar to The Matrix? Let us know!
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