WILL SMITH'S MUSIC VIDEO BELOW ARTICLE:
Will Smith has revisited one of Hollywood’s biggest “what if” scenarios in his latest music video for Beautiful Scars, featuring Big Sean and OBanga. The video, inspired by The Matrix, sees Smith dodging bullets and taking the red pill—but instead of thrilling fans, it has left many relieved that he never played Neo in the iconic film.
Will Smith and The Matrix: A Longstanding What-If
For years, movie buffs have debated how The Matrix might have looked if Will Smith had accepted the role of Neo. In 1997, the Wachowskis offered Smith the lead part, but he turned it down in favor of Wild Wild West—a decision he has publicly admitted to regretting.
Earlier this year, Smith fueled speculation by posting a cryptic Instagram video recalling his decision. The post included the text:
“In 1997, the Wachowskis offered Will Smith the role of Neo in The Matrix. Smith turned it down. He chose Wild Wild West, believing it was a better fit for him at the time. But the question remains: What would The Matrix have been like with Will Smith as Neo?”
The clip ended with a direct nod to the movie’s storyline:
“Wake up, Will. The Matrix has you.”
Fans speculated this was a tease for an upcoming project—and they weren’t entirely wrong. A few weeks later, Smith dropped the music video for Beautiful Scars, bringing the speculation to life.
Recreating The Matrix: A Music Video Experiment
In Beautiful Scars, Will Smith steps into The Matrix universe, recreating several iconic scenes, including:
The red pill vs. blue pill moment
Neo’s bullet-dodging sequence
A kung fu fight in the training simulator
While the video is visually impressive, many fans felt it only confirmed that Keanu Reeves was the right choice for Neo.
The Internet Reacts: "Keanu Was the Right Choice"
Following the release of the video, social media was flooded with reactions. While some appreciated Smith’s creative approach, many were quick to say that The Matrix would not have been the same without Reeves.
One X (formerly Twitter) user bluntly stated:“It looks so bad.”
Another commented: “Thankfully he rejected the role. Will has made some great films, but Keanu did make this role iconic.”
Others echoed similar sentiments: “Thank you, Will, for turning down the role. Keanu ended up being the perfect fit. Keanu was the right choice.”
One user even called Smith’s rejection of The Matrix a "blessing," while another simply crowned Reeves as "the GOAT."
Will Smith’s Career Move: From Neo to Music
Despite the mixed reception, Smith is moving forward with his music career. Along with Beautiful Scars, he has announced a new solo album, Based on a True Story, set for release in March 2025. This marks his first full-length album in over 20 years, bringing his music career full circle.
Final Thoughts: A Fun Experiment, But Keanu Stays Neo
While Keanu will always be Neo I think Will Smith would have done the role justice as he is the King Of Summer Blockbusters.
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Source: Hindustan Times
Photo Credit: Will Smith/Warner Bros.
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