Will Smith, a powerhouse of talent and charisma, had the golden ticket to become Neo, the prophesied savior of humanity, in his hands. However, in a surprising turn of events detailed in a candid video on his YouTube channel, Smith opted out, choosing instead to lead in the critically panned “Wild Wild West.” This decision, as Smith humorously reflects, might not have been his proudest moment. His rejection of Neo not only altered his path but inadvertently shifted the fate of another major role in the film—the wise and stoic Morpheus.
Val Kilmer as Morpheus? An Alternate Matrix Universe
Originally, the casting of Morpheus had a different trajectory. With Smith in the running for Neo, the filmmakers had eyed Val Kilmer, known for his roles in “Batman Forever” and “Top Gun,” for Morpheus. Smith’s insight sheds light on this casting ripple effect: “I was going to be Neo, and Val Kilmer was going to be Morpheus.” This reveals a fascinating layer to the casting what-ifs—had Smith accepted the role of Neo, the dynamic and ultimately iconic portrayal of Morpheus by Laurence Fishburne might never have come to be. Smith adds, “If I had done it, because I’m Black, then Morpheus wouldn’t have been Black because they were looking at Val Kilmer.”
Despite the initial consideration for Kilmer, it was Fishburne who ultimately brought Morpheus to life, with both him and Keanu Reeves (as Neo) receiving acclaim for their performances. Smith acknowledges this outcome with grace, noting, “Keanu was perfect. Laurence Fishburne was perfect.”
Reflecting on Missed Roles: Kilmer’s Perspective
While Will Smith has openly discussed his decision regarding “The Matrix,” Val Kilmer’s reflections on the matter are more reserved. During a Reddit AMA, when probed about any regrets over roles he turned down, Kilmer responded diplomatically, emphasizing support for his fellow actors rather than dwelling on what could have been. This response highlights Kilmer’s gracious approach to the unpredictable nature of film casting. Further reports from sources like Screen Rant indicate that Kilmer was not only a contender for Morpheus but also for Neo, initially alongside other stars like Brad Pitt. However, Kilmer’s career path led him to star in the romantic drama “At First Sight” in 1999, leaving the door open for Reeves and Fishburne to step into their legendary roles.
The Matrix’s Lasting Legacy
The narrative of “The Matrix” and its casting what-ifs provides a compelling glimpse into the intricate and often unpredictable world of film production. The decisions of Smith and Kilmer, and the performances of Reeves and Fishburne, have left indelible marks on the landscape of science fiction films. As “The Matrix” continues to be celebrated for its innovation and depth, the stories behind its creation remain just as captivating, reminding us of the intricate weave of choice and chance that defines Hollywood’s storied history.