The Matrix, even today, continues to stand out as a pioneering film, with CGI slow-motion action sequences that linger and evade bullets in our minds unforgettably for decades. Not only was it a remarkable action movie for being among the top films of the ’90s, but it provided some of Keanu Reeves’ finest performances during that decade. It’s hard to believe, but Will Smith almost landed the role of Neo in The Matrix. His recent account of why he declined the part sheds light on his decision, making it more understandable for me.
Refusing the opportunity to join “The Matrix” seems almost unthinkable, given what we now know about its action-packed fight scenes and boundless digital world. The allure of such an experience is hard to resist. Yet, Will Smith declined this offer in the ’90s, after the Wachowskis presented it to him. Later, he explained his decision on “Sway’s Universe” with a rational reason behind his refusal.
When they explained The Matrix to me, I didn’t grasp it. They described it like this: “Dude, we’re going to create these cameras that will let you jump but then freeze you in mid-air. While you’re frozen, the camera moves around you and then you move again. It’s gonna be mind-blowing.” At that point, I was planning on working on Wild Wild West instead.
The funny explanation is quite logical, it seems. The Wachowskis likely believed that emphasizing special effects, stunts, and their distinctive perspective would appeal to a star who had boosted the success of sci-fi films like “Independence Day” and “Men in Black.” Yet, those efforts didn’t resonate with Smith at all.
Indeed, “The Matrix” does feature a complex narrative involving extraterrestrials creating a convincing digital reality within humans’ minds, while exploiting them as an energy resource. However, this intricate plot isn’t directly connected to the innovative bullet-time cinematography. If there was concern that the storyline might be too challenging for potential viewers, the stunning special effects could serve as an attractive alternative. It is essential to remember that in the ’90s, computer-generated imagery (CGI) was still in its infancy and not as prevalent as it is today, making a film like “The Matrix” quite unusual due to its extensive use of CGI.
It’s plausible that choosing “Wild Wild West” was a logical decision for Will Smith over “The Matrix.” He would be rejoining his “Men in Black” director, Barry Sonnefeld, and avoiding the complex CGI action sequences typical of a Western movie. Yet, it’s interesting to note that Smith, formerly of sitcom fame, picked this film with aspirations of stardom rather than due to the project’s appeal. Lucky for him, his impressive acting portfolio has rendered any box office flops inconsequential in his illustrious career.
It’s tough to imagine a film with lots of special effects without having seen the completed version. After getting a glimpse of ‘The Matrix’, Will Smith confessed that it was only then that he truly grasped the concept that the Wachowskis had pitched many years prior.
Initially, I spotted it and exclaimed, “Leap and stand still!” I then realized, “Yes, that was the perfect note!” However, unfortunately, it turned out to be a poor choice. Despite my usual accuracy, I failed to hit the mark on this occasion.
In 2022, Will Smith shared that if he could go back in time, he’d advise his younger self not to reject The Matrix role. At the same time, the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air actor admitted that everything happened exactly as it should have. He recognized that had he taken on the role of Neo and Val Kilmer played Morpheus, the movie would have been different, but he was content with how things turned out.
It seems like “The Matrix” might have been a film that slipped through Will Smith’s grasp, but given its mind-bending premise, it’s understandable why he might have found it difficult to imagine himself in the sci-fi genre. However, he would eventually take on the role in “I, Robot” five years later, another thought-provoking film about artificial intelligence and the future. So, perhaps everything worked out as it should.
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2025-04-03 01:08