The actor recalls months of intense preparation and the bruises that came with creating cinematic magic

Months of Training Behind the Matrix Magic

October 19, 2025: Laurence Fishburne has revealed the incredible amount of work that went into filming one of The Matrix’s most memorable fight sequences. In a recent interview, the veteran actor shared that he and co-star Keanu Reeves trained for nearly 10 months to perfect their moves, calling the experience both “thrilling” and “physically demanding.”

“We trained every day for months,” Fishburne said. “Keanu and I were totally committed — it was about discipline, precision, and respect for the choreography. By the time we filmed that dojo fight scene, we knew it inside out.”

Bruised but Proud

The actor also admitted that the intense preparation came at a cost. Both he and Reeves walked away “black and blue” after countless hours of sparring and rehearsals. Despite the toll it took on their bodies, Fishburne said it was worth every moment.

“We were covered in bruises, but it was all part of the process,” he recalled with a laugh. “That fight scene became one of the most recognized moments in film history — and we earned every frame of it.”

The Commitment to Authenticity

Known for their dedication to authenticity, both Fishburne and Reeves worked closely with legendary martial arts choreographer Yuen Woo-ping, who pushed them to their limits. Fishburne said the director’s vision for realism demanded complete focus and stamina.

“It wasn’t just about looking cool — it was about moving like real fighters, reacting with purpose, and telling a story through combat,” Fishburne explained. “That’s what made The Matrix special. Every punch had meaning.”

A Legacy That Endures

Over two decades since its release, The Matrix continues to be celebrated for its groundbreaking visuals and unforgettable action sequences. Fishburne’s reflections highlight the immense discipline and teamwork behind those scenes — a testament to how far the actors were willing to go for cinematic perfection.

“Keanu was relentless — we pushed each other,” Fishburne said. “Looking back, it was exhausting, but it was also one of the greatest experiences of my career.”