Matrix Sequel Character Update

With anticipation for The Matrix 2 and 3 even rivaling that for Episode II, the Internet has been positively buzzing with rumours – most of them having little basis in fact. But from the seas of misinformation one fact has at last emerged. IGN Movies has confirmed the rumour first reported by Ain’t it Cool News, that The Matrix 2 will feature a character called Niobe, ex-flame of Morpheus and current beau of the leader of Zion, the last human city. The Wachowskis are reportedly looking for a “tough” but “drop-dead gorgeous” actress to play the role of Niobe, captain of the fastest ship in the league. IGN also unearthed info on a new teenage male role, but no further details were available. All major characters from the original are scheduled to return for the sequels and USA Today reported comments by Keanu Reeves, saying that his character Neo will be much more developed than in The Matrix. Reeves also said that the fight sequences for the second and third films will be far more demanding than the already impressive bouts of the first film. Shooting on the sequels, which will be shot back to back, begins in March 2001.