Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
Smith says 'Mr. Anderson' like a verdict: it is the Matrix's name for Neo, the identity he has to shed to become the One. Neo's reply turns the farewell into the film's turning point, and the formal, clipped way Smith says the name made it his signature. Fans now quote it as a mock-formal goodbye, usually to someone about to be proved wrong.
Context reviewed
In context
Spoilers for The MatrixShow the scene
Near the end of the Wachowskis' The Matrix (1999), Morpheus has been freed from the Agents when Smith intercepts Neo, who has gone back into the Matrix to save him, in a subway station. They trade blows until Smith pins Neo in a headlock on the tracks as a train rumbles closer. Smith tells him that the sound is the sound of inevitability, his death, and says goodbye using Neo's old programmer name, Mr. Anderson. Neo answers that his name is Neo, slams Smith into the ceiling and flips onto the platform as the train hits the Agent.
Sources (2)
- Wikiquote: The Matrix (film)Dialogue, Smith's subway linesReference checked
- Wikipedia: The MatrixPlot; Filming sectionReference checked
Context reviewed
