The Matrix 5 could be a prequel, exploring the franchise's untold origins and potentially revitalizing the series. Drew Goddard's direction offers a fresh take, possibly more exciting than a Wachowski-led sequel. A prequel could avoid the confusion of Resurrections' retcons, providing a blank slate for an exciting story.

Warner Bros. plans for The Matrix 5 came as a surprise, following the financial disappointment of the previous installment, yet the upcoming sequel means that the franchise can finally explore a potentially game-changing prequel story. Despite being one of the most popular sci-fi franchises of all time, The Matrix has arguably never delivered on the promise of its original film. None of the movie's sequels matched its critical or cultural impact, highlighting issues with the franchise's overarching story. While each follow-up has underwhelmed in some capacity, one untold aspect of The Matrix's lore still has the potential to rejuvenate the series.

Although its story remains a mystery,...