Keanu Reeves plays Neo, a computer hacker who is drawn into the world of the Matrix. Reeves' career took off in the 1980s with movies such as "River's Edge", "Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure" and "Dangerous Liaisons." In "The Matrix," Reeves' Neo is faced with the choice to live in a safe, false reality or join a dangerous fight with the resistance group battling the oppressive machines. As the film progresses, Neo begins to understand and utilize the special powers he possesses.
Laurence Fishburne plays Morpheus, an important member of the underground rebellion. One of Fishburne's first major roles came in the 1979 classic "Apocalypse Now," a Francis Ford Coppola movie. Fishburne was 14 years old when the filming of that movie began. In "The Matrix," Fishburne's Morpheus acts as both warrior and teacher, lending his experience and knowledge to the resistance. Morpheus believes Neo is a prophesied individual who will help humanity throw off the shackles of machine control.
The character Trinity is played by Carrie-Anne Moss, who acts as Neo's love interest. She is also the member of the resistance sent to recruit him. Moss has the unique distinction of being in two productions named "Matrix." In 1993, she appeared in a television show called "Matrix," which was not related to the Wachowski franchise. Moss has delved into different mediums as well; her voice appears in the video game franchise "Mass Effect."
Nigerian-born actor Hugo Weaving plays the main antagonist of "The Matrix" -- Agent Smith -- a computer program with a strong distaste for humankind. Smith is cold and unforgiving, and only wants to complete his mission and gain his freedom from the Matrix. Weaving is also known for his iconic role as the elvish lord Elrond in the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy. He has appeared in other popular franchises as well -- he lent his voice to Michael Bay's "Transformers" films and played Red Skull in "Captain America: The First Avenger."
Joe Pantoliano plays Cypher, the one member of Morpheus' resistance team whose true motives are under suspicion. Cypher often speaks about his choice to leave the simulated reality of the Matrix, and he seeks to re-enter it, no matter what the cost. Pantoliano has appeared in movies such as "Memento" (along side "Matrix" co-star Carrie-Anne Moss) and "Bad Boys II." He also had a recurring role on the hit television show "The Sopranos."