Co-director Lilly Wachowski of "The Matrix" denounces right-wing appropriation of film's true message: 'This is the result of fascism'

Lilly Wachowski, co-director of the iconic 1999 sci-fi film The Matrix, has voiced her frustration over conservative misinterpretations of the movie. On a recent podcast, she stated, "Right-wing ideology appropriates absolutely everything. They take left-leaning ideas and twist them for their own propaganda, obscuring the original message."

Along with her sister, Lana Wachowski, Lilly has criticized the way some conservatives have co-opted the film's famous "red pill" scene, which the sisters originally intended as a metaphor for transgender identity.

The Story of The Matrix

The film follows Thomas Anderson (played by Keanu Reeves), a solitary programmer who discovers that his seemingly ordinary life is actually a sophisticated simulation designed to control humanity. The story explores the tension between remaining in a comfortable illusion or facing a liberating but harsh reality. Over the years, it has become a lasting cultural reference point.

However, Lilly Wachowski has expressed discontent with recent reinterpretations. On the So True podcast, she elaborated, "They manipulate ideas and present them as something they are not, stripping away their original significance. That is the essence of fascism."

The Red Pill and Blue Pill Symbolism

The most widely referenced moment in right-wing circles is the choice between the blue pill, which allows the protagonist to remain in ignorance, and the red pill, which exposes him to the truth of living under totalitarian control. Some conservative audiences have framed this as an awakening to specific cultural or political truths.

Contrary to these interpretations, Lilly and Lana have explained that the scene was originally conceived as a trans allegory. Lilly commented, "The Matrix was always about transformation, but initially from a closeted perspective. The corporate world wasn't ready for that narrative."

Trans Identity and Personal Reflections

Lilly came out as transgender in 2016, acknowledging her sister Lanas earlier coming out in 2008 and praising her for both her courage and her support. Lana has shared the dangers and societal challenges faced when publicly identifying as transgender, emphasizing the life-and-death stakes for some individuals in an unaccepting culture.

Lilly also criticized attempts to misappropriate scientific or social discussions for ideological purposes, citing initiatives like Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s public health campaign. She stated, "They claim science backs them up, but they twist ideas and truths to suit their own agenda, stripping these concepts of their real significance."

For the full conversation, Lillys discussion is available on the So True podcast.

Author: Sophia Brooks