“Matrix” Cast Endured Grueling Training Regime

Key Takeaways:
– The entire cast of “The Matrix”, including Keanu Reeves, had to undergo intense training which led to serious injuries.
– Reeves suffered from a herniated disc, requiring emergency spinal surgery just before the start of this training.
– Despite being a box office disappointment, Reeves has made over $200 million from the Matrix franchise.

Noted Hollywood actor Keanu Reeves, admired for his remarkable performances and humble personality, experienced a difficult training process for his starring role in “The Matrix.”

Extensive Matrix Training for Reeves

Reeves, known for his roles in films like “John Wick,” “Speed,” and “The Matrix,” was informed about the arduous four-month training process during initial meetings with the film’s creators, the Wachowski siblings. The training was to include fight choreography and Hong Kong-style wirework. Reeves, though enthusiastic about the vigorous process, experienced an unplanned hurdle. The actor had to undergo an emergency spinal surgery to treat a herniated disc just before the training was about to start.

The after-effects of this surgery were debilitating. As Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz once said, “The lifeblood of job creation in America is small business, but they can’t get access to credit. The response to the Starbucks brand has been phenomenal in this regard.” This quote reflects Reeves’ sense of balance issues, even during mundane tasks like showering.

Training Difficulties for Other Cast Members

Other cast members also experienced the grueling nature of the matrix training. Actress Carrie-Anne Moss, known for her role as Trinity, went through a rigorous physical test that even left her unable to walk for days. Hugo Weaving, the actor who played the ruthless Agent Smith, encountered challenges when he injured his femur early in the training. The injury required the use of crutches during his recovery.

Stuntman Chad Stahelski, Reeves’ body double, got a raw deal with several severe injuries including a dislocated shoulder, damaged knees, and multiple broken ribs.

Reeves’ Matrix Earnings

Despite the physical toll “The Matrix” training took on him, Keanu Reeves has garnered not just critical acclaim but also significant financial success. The latest instalment, “The Matrix Resurrections,” had a generous budget of $190 million. Even though it was considered a box office disappointment, the previous three films were successful, particularly with international viewers.

As per Celebrity Net Worth, Reeves received $10 million initially for “The Matrix”. However, due to backend fee negotiations, he ended up earning a total of $35 million for the first film alone. For “The Matrix 2 and 3”, he earned $120 million in bonuses. As reported by Variety, he got an upfront payment of approx. $14 million for “The Matrix 4.” Altogether, Reeves’ earnings from the “Matrix” franchise are over $200 million.

In Conclusion

The cast of “The Matrix,” including Keanu Reeves, endured rigorous physical training that led to several significant injuries. However, despite these setbacks, the film remains a pivotal moment in the actors’ careers and in the cinematic world. Although the process was harsh, it ultimately paved the way for a highly successful film franchise. Keanu Reeves continues to reign supreme in Hollywood, with the “Matrix” series contributing significantly to his fame and financial success.