UNTUCKED presents THE MATRIX: 25th Anniversary!

Cinema has the power to shape new ideas and influence narratives in popular culture. As Hollywood catches up with the times, we are seeing more diverse and marginalised stories on screen. But to what extent does the medium inform our perceptions of ourselves?

UNTUCKED is a new film series that explores the narratives of gender and transition through film. Each installation of UNTUCKED will explore a different film, curated for its unique exploration of gender, for better or worse. From popular classics to deep cult favourites, from LGBTQ+ heroes to comedic faux-pas, UNTUCKED traces the history of gender exploration through the 20th Century’s most prolific and impactful medium.

Each screening will begin with a comedic introduction by the series curator (transgender comedian Alice Rose) exploring how each film relates to her unique experience of gender. After the film, feel free to join us for a cocktail and informal dialogue with the host.

The 1999 action sci-fi The Matrix first made history with its revolutionary visuals, elaborate fight sequences, and mind-tickling philosophical and sci-fi themes. Marking Hollywood’s departure from the bland, formulaic action movies of the 80’s and 90’s, The Matrix made way for more sophisticated and polished action movies of the 2010’s, thus ensuring Keanu Reeves’ career for decades to come.

Nearly 25 years later, after both its filmmakers (siblings Lana and Lilly Wachowski) have come out as trans, it is impossible to ignore the countless allegories (intentional or not) that continue to resonate with trans audiences to this day.

Since the film’s release, the Wachowskis have explored gender much more, dare I say it, trans-parently, thus creating a body of work as trans-affirming as JK Rowling’s isn’t. Yet while later works like the Netflix series Sense8 celebrate complex themes of sexuality, gender, and identity head on, it is undeniable that these themes have been ruminating in the filmmakers’ heads since the very beginning.

Join Untucked series host and curator Alice Rose in an exploration of transgender allegories in this groundbreaking favourite film. The Matrix will screen on January 25th at Paradise Theatre.

(Courtesy of Warner Bros.)

Thursday January 25th 8 PM/7 PM Doors

Door tickets are available for purchase on the day of screening. Refunds can be requested up to 12 hours before the screening. All refunds must be requested and processed through eventbrite.

Looking for pre or post show snack or sip? Check out our amazing options right next door!