Who Are the Wachowskis
The Wachowskis are American filmmakers and siblings formerly known as the Wachowski brothers. Lilly Wachowski and Lana Wachowski have directed, written, and produced major Hollywood projects spanning science fiction, action, and crime genres. Their work includes the Matrix franchise, which generated billions in box office and home media revenue. The siblings transitioned publicly in the 2000s and 2010s, with Lana and Lilly now recognized as trans women. Their production company, Anarchos Productions, manages development of original and adapted projects.
Lana Wachowski directed The Matrix Resurrections, released in 2021 by Warner Bros. Pictures. Lilly Wachowski stepped back from the Matrix franchise and has focused on independent and documentary work. The Wachowskis' early films include Bound and Jupiter Ascending. Their projects are often produced under their own banner with Warner Bros. and other major studios.
Major Films and Franchise Earnings
The Matrix franchise includes The Matrix, The Matrix Reloaded, The Matrix Revolutions, and The Matrix Resurrections. The original film grossed over 460 million dollars worldwide against a 63 million dollar budget. The Matrix Resurrections earned approximately 160 million dollars globally on a reported 190 million dollar production budget. The franchise's total lifetime revenue across theatrical, home entertainment, and streaming exceeds 3 billion dollars by industry estimates.
Other notable Wachowski projects include V for Vendetta, Cloud Atlas, and Jupiter Ascending. V for Vendetta grossed over 130 million dollars worldwide and became a cult classic on home video. Jupiter Ascending earned roughly 184 million dollars globally against a 176 million dollar budget. The siblings have also produced and written series for Netflix, including Sense8 and Jupiter's Legacy.
Production Company and Industry Standing
Anarchos Productions is the Wachowskis' private production company, handling development of their original films and series. The company operates in partnership with major studios including Warner Bros. and Netflix for financing and distribution. Anarchos has produced projects ranging from blockbuster features to limited series and independent films.
The Wachowskis are ranked among the most influential sci-fi filmmakers of the 21st century by industry outlets and film critics. Their films are studied for visual innovation, including bullet time and wire-fu techniques adapted from Hong Kong cinema. Lilly Wachowski has also been recognized for her advocacy and independent work outside major studio franchises.