Lilly Wachowski, known for directing The Matrix franchise, discussed challenges in securing financing for her latest project during an appearance on KCRW’s The Business podcast. The filmmaker noted that the current industry climate presents obstacles for projects centered on underrepresented voices and marginalized perspectives.
Wachowski’s film in question, The Hunted, is a dystopian political thriller budgeted at approximately $10 million that she co-wrote with partner Mickey Ray Mahoney. Despite positive reception to the script when circulated through Hollywood, studios have declined to finance the project, which features a predominantly trans cast. Wachowski characterized the response as reluctance rooted in the composition of the cast, stating that while industry figures appreciated the material, they declined to move forward with production.
The director emphasized the personal significance of the project, describing it as a creative response to current circumstances affecting trans communities. She indicated that the writing process provided an outlet for processing difficult emotions related to ongoing events. To advance the project despite financial obstacles, Wachowski has pursued alternative presentation strategies rather than waiting for traditional studio backing.
Earlier this month, Wachowski participated in a live table read of The Hunted at Dynasty Typewriter in Los Angeles as one approach to introducing the material to audiences. She characterized this alternative method as achieving similar results to her original vision, despite differing from her initial conception. The production also involves producer Lawrence Mattis and Sarah Marie Flores at Anarchists United, as well as actress and producer Natasha Lyonne at Ariadne Collective.
Wachowski’s directorial credits include The Matrix trilogy, Bound, Speed Racer, Cloud Atlas, and Jupiter Ascending, along with the television series Sense8.
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