CMLIT 153

Reading Questions

"The Matrix"

• Note: many of these questions overlap. It is best to read through these before you watch the film.

• If this isn't your first viewing, notice whether you experience the film differently as you keep the questions in mind.

1. How does the film play with the notion of alternate realities?

2. In what ways is the world of the Matrix similar to the dream-state? How is it different?

3. What constitutes "reality" for the characters in the film?

4. How does the film use the metaphors of sleep, dream and waking to tell its story?

5. Consider Thomas Anderson/Neo's transformation during the film: What are the different stages? What does he have to accept and/or abandon in order to fulfill his destiny?

6. "There is no spoon"-- explain the role of this scene and this line. What meaning does it come to have for Neo?

7. To what extent does each of the characters who move in and out of the Matrix lead a double life? Compare to the priest of "The Dead in Love."

8. What do the main characters' names signify? Neo, Morpheus, Trinity, Cypher?

9. Consider the roles of Morpheus, Trinity and Cypher. What is the function of each character in the film? Do you detect any Christian overtones?

10. Both "The Matrix" and "Life is a Dream" rely on prophecy as a plot device. Do you find any other similarities between these two dramas--in plot, theme or character?

11. Are we each the creators of our own reality? Is all reality (including dream) an illusion? How does the film comment on these questions?

12. Comment on the film's denouement (I.e. conclusion): is this how YOU would have ended the film?