Into the Rabbit Hole: Is John Wick a Program in the Matrix?

• 01

  The ‘Total Recall’ Theory

  
  via Warner Bros.

  First of all, the theory is not proposing that Neo and John Wick are the same person, or that John Wick is going around inside the Matrix, killing off agents and puppy murderers. Instead, this theory proposes that the entire series of movies is actually a training program that implants the memories of "John Wick" into Neo's mind. 
  Remember the movie "Total recall" where Arnold Schwarzenegger gets the memories of a secret agent implanted in his brain? In one second he gains a lifetime of knowledge of combat training and weapons handling. Well, same thing here. The entire events of the John Wick series unfold in a blink of an eye after Tank hits the "load" button. This idea adds a whole new layer of complexity to the connection between the two movie franchises.

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• 02

  Old Technology

  
  via Lionsgate

  Both the Matrix and John Wick franchises have an unmistakably "analog" feel, complete with rotary phones, vintage computers, and other "old tech." Interestingly, no one in the John Wick universe seems to have a smartphone (except for John Wick himself, who uses his phone just to watch a video of his late wife). This lack of modern technology is quite strange for a film set in 2014, and it further fuels the theory that the John Wick universe could be part of the Matrix.

• 03

  Guns, Lots of Guns

  
  via Warner Bros.

  Neo and John Wick both possess an incredible knowledge of various weapons and fighting styles, allowing them to handle any combat situation with ease. This extraordinary level of skill is undoubtedly reminiscent of the Matrix, where characters can download knowledge and abilities directly into their minds. Could it be that Wick is a program designed to push Neo and other potential "Ones" to their limits?

• 04

  Written and directed by Morpheus

  
  via Lionsgate

  The Matrix and John Wick franchises also share a notable actor: Lawrence Fishburne. Fishburne plays Morpheus in the Matrix and the Bowery King in John Wick. This connection could suggest that Morpheus was actually the one who wrote this program and he designed the Bowery King in his likeness like Mouse designed the lady in red.

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• 05

  Connection Established?

  
  via Lionsgate, Warner Bros.

  So, is John Wick a program in the Matrix? While the connections between the two universes are fascinating and thought-provoking, we may never know for sure. However, the beauty of fan theories lies in their ability to spark lively discussions and enrich our understanding of the movies we adore.

  And remember, in the words of Morpheus, "There's a difference between knowing the path and walking the path." Whether or not John Wick is a program in the Matrix, one thing is certain: his journey is a thrilling and action-packed ride that keeps us on the edge of our seats. Let's continue to enjoy the films and explore the possibilities of this exciting fan theory.

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