In 2024, *The Matrix* commemorates its 25th anniversary, and Screen Rant is thrilled to partake in the festivities by unveiling the design of its special anniversary vinyl soundtrack, produced by Varèse Sarabande and Craft Recordings. First introduced to audiences in 1999 by Lilly and Lana Wachowski, this science-fiction classic not only transformed the landscape of action cinema but also brought the philosophical concept of simulation theory into mainstream conversations. It propelled Keanu Reeves to stardom and established a distinctive aesthetic that, 25 years on, remains instantly recognizable.
While the film’s groundbreaking narrative and visual effects were pivotal in altering the course of Keanu Reeves’ career, its musical score by Don Davis served as its hidden gem. Beyond composing for the original *Matrix* trilogy, Davis’s repertoire includes scores for films such as *Jurassic Park III*, *Behind Enemy Lines*, and *Warriors of Virtue*. Screen Rant is pleased to provide an exclusive glimpse of the artwork for the 25th-anniversary vinyl edition of Davis’s *The Matrix* soundtrack. Set to release on November 15, enthusiasts can pre-order it now.
Why The Matrix (25th Anniversary Expanded Edition) Vinyl Could Be “The One”
Don Davis’ composition masterfully balances the philosophical themes and action-packed sequences of *The Matrix* films. This is evident in a curated selection of tracks personally chosen by the composer for the *The Matrix (25th Anniversary Expanded Edition)*. The edition boasts 18 tracks, many of which were previously accessible only in the complete score edition. Beloved pieces like “Main Title (from *The Matrix*) / Trinity Infinity” are featured, alongside lesser-known tracks such as “A Morpheus Movement” and “Ignorance Is Bliss / Cyber Cyphernetic,” which transition from the complete score.
The visual appeal of a special vinyl release often rivals its auditory experience, and *The Matrix (25th Anniversary Expanded Edition)* does not disappoint. It showcases new anime-inspired artwork by Yuko Shimizu, celebrating some of the most iconic fight scenes from *The Matrix*. The vinyl records themselves are available in various hues, thanks to exclusive release options. Varèse Sarabande’s website offers a “Cyber Swirl Green” vinyl, Barnes & Noble will carry a “Blue Pill” edition, and a “Red Pill” version will be accessible internationally.
As development on *The Matrix 5* progresses without the involvement of either Wachowski sister, revisiting the original film through *The Matrix (25th Anniversary Expanded Edition)* offers a nostalgic journey back to the movie that started it all. *The Matrix* stands as a unique cultural phenomenon, laying down a legacy that, despite the sequels’ grand ideas and captivating moments, has not always been perfectly mirrored. A quarter-century later, and as another endeavor aims to recapture the Wachowskis’ original brilliance, celebrating *The Matrix* and Davis’s unparalleled soundtrack remains as relevant as ever.
The *The Matrix (25th Anniversary Expanded Edition)* vinyl is slated for release on November 15 and is available for pre-order now.
The Matrix
- Action
- Adventure
- Sci-Fi
The Matrix, directed by the Wachowskis, stars Keanu Reeves as Neo, a hacker who discovers that reality is a simulated construct controlled by intelligent machines. Laurence Fishburne and Carrie-Anne Moss co-star as Morpheus and Trinity, who help Neo navigate and ultimately challenge the artificial world. The film blends action, philosophy, and groundbreaking visual effects, establishing itself as a pivotal entry in the science fiction genre.
