The Matrix is an essential film for American Identities. There are pivotal scenes in it which use several concepts that tie directly in several works from class and the character of Neo (The One) is the most essential in this. Neo finds in an early scene that his life has been an illusion. His whole world is actually computer-generated. The fact that Neo is able to get over his shock so swiftly makes a comment on the concept of reality. One of the concepts we have studied is hyper reality, the belief that there is no such thing as actual reality, just varying versions of it. The fact that Neo is able to accept the Matrix so easily suggest that he may have been aware of hyper reality and never truly accepted reality for what it is. This movie raises question if most people live under this belief; and if anyone truly believes in the world that they live in or if they are aware of the fact that reality is a just a version of something else. Interestingly, when Neo is given the choice between the red and blue pill, he does choose the red pill, the one that will break his sense of falsity. This suggests that people are looking for a sense of reality and to break out of hyper reality. The movie also makes a comment about the idea of American heroes. Neo goes from a lazy hacker to hero of the universe throughout the movie. Although being told the mission is dangerous, Neo chooses this option believing it will lead to heroism. This speaks about American nature and the desire to become something that is considered great. Physicality is emphasized throughout this; Neo doesn’t show much emotion. The way the viewer can tell he is getting more self-esteem is the way his fighting abilities progresses. This makes a comment on American mentality at the time and the way physicality is emphasized. Physical attributes and material objects are emphasized- at the time of the movie, computers were gaining popularity. The very concept of a world based on material objects that a computer could create would not have been possible ten years prior to the film being made. The movie also makes a comment about the way religion is emphasized in America; Neo is called “The One” and becomes a Christ figure in the movie. He is resurrected at the end of the movie. In addition to this, his Matrix name is Anderson, Anderson meaning “son of God.” Neo represents several important American great people throughout the name. In addition to playing the traditional hero- average boy turned into superhero- he takes on the role of a savior. The movie combines hyper reality and great American figures in making a comment on America at the time.