‘Matrix’ cast reportedly skirts Berlin ban on parties by staging one for film.
Parties are strictly banned under Germany’s current lockdown, but Keanu Reeves and the rest of the cast and crew of “The Matrix 4” threw themselves a rager near Berlin by allegedly staging a party scene for the movie.
Perhaps living in their own matrix, nearly 200 workers on the movie enjoyed their wrap party at Studio Babelsberg in Potsdam.
They were treated to a pyrotechnics and dance performance, a DJ playing on a packed dance floor, tattoo stations inside caravans, several bars serving wine and sake, a sushi and dessert station (sans red or blue pills) and cushioned Bedouin tents, German newspaper Bild reported.
Reeves and girlfriend Alexandra Grant were seen at the bash with a bottle of wine on their table. “Matrix” franchise creators Lana and Lilly Wachowski were also reportedly there.
One guest told the paper, “The mood was exuberant. There was a rapid [COVID-19] test for everyone in advance. Everyone had to come with a mask, but many didn’t wear them later.”
Germany’s four-week partial lockdown went into effect Nov. 2, shuttering bars, restaurants and theaters and forbidding large gatherings. “The Matrix 4” wrapped days later, so the party was given a code name: “Ice cream team event.”
Studio Babelsberg spokeswoman Bianca Makarewicz told Bild: “According to the production, it was the last day of shooting. It was a celebration scene … Hygiene requirements were adhered to.” She added, “The production deliberately put this shoot with many people involved at the end of the shoot.” But there was no filming during the party, guests said. The movie’s distributor, Warner Bros., did not comment.
According to the local health department, “indoor events are only allowed after registration, with an approved hygiene concept and a maximum of 50 people with masks and distance.” A spokesman for Potsdam added that no event was registered, and its health department is examining photos of the packed party published by Bild.