Another One: Blasphemous 'Matrix' Theory Suggests Neo Isn't Actually "the One"

Don't worry. You are not the One.

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Complex Original

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In addition to providing the definitive handbook on how best to survive in a post-internet society (unplug!), the Matrix franchise inspired its fair share of fan-circulated theories regarding Neo's status as "the One." One such theory, as recently revived by iO9, revolves around the seemingly blasphemous assertion that Neo (Keanu Reeves) is, in fact, not the One:

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According to this sacrilege, Agent Smith (Hugo Weaving) is the true One due to some admittedly plausible—though no less blasphemous—reasons. Furthermore, the theory falls firmly in line with the general vibe of the entire Matrix story (i.e. most things are not exactly what you think). Smith also has the mini-brag of having actually been born inside the matrix, a crucial element in this longstanding fan theory.

Of course, this isn't the first (or even the best) time someone has taken a deep dive into this Smith-favoring interpretation of the Wachowskis' revered trilogy. Just last year, Film Theorists spent more than 15 minutes (totally worth it) going into even greater detail about why exactly obvious One candidate Neo (dude sacrificed himself!) just doesn't cut it:

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Want to hear another theory? Keanu Reeves is the greatest actor of his generation. In fact, dude is set to prove it with the forthcoming John Wick sequel. As previously reported, the film (which forced our guy Keanu to endure some serious weapons training) will see a mini-Matrix reunion thanks to Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne) popping in for some presumably frenetic action sequences.

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