<P> The Matrix was first released in the United States on March 31 , 1999 , and grossed over $460 million worldwide . It was well - received by critics and won four Academy Awards , as well as other accolades , including BAFTA Awards and Saturn Awards . Reviewers praised The Matrix for its innovative visual effects , cinematography and entertainment value . The film has since appeared in lists of the greatest science fiction films , and , in 2012 , was added to the National Film Registry for preservation . The success of the film led to the release of two feature film sequels , both written and directed by the Wachowskis : The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions . The Matrix franchise was further expanded through the production of comic books , video games and animated short films , in which the Wachowskis were heavily involved , and even inspired books and theories on ideas in religion and philosophy . </P>
<P> The Matrix was first released in the United States on March 31 , 1999 , and grossed over $460 million worldwide . It was well - received by critics and won four Academy Awards , as well as other accolades , including BAFTA Awards and Saturn Awards . Reviewers praised The Matrix for its innovative visual effects , cinematography and entertainment value . The film has since appeared in lists of the greatest science fiction films , and , in 2012 , was added to the National Film Registry for preservation . The success of the film led to the release of two feature film sequels , both written and directed by the Wachowskis : The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions . The Matrix franchise was further expanded through the production of comic books , video games and animated short films , in which the Wachowskis were heavily involved , and even inspired books and theories on ideas in religion and philosophy . </P>
when did the matrix hit cinemas and take the world by storm
when did the matrix hit cinemas and take the world by storm
March 31 , 1999
March 31 , 1999