The Matrix 5 is in the pipeline

A fifth 'Matrix' movie is in the works.

Warner Bros. have announced that Drew Goddard will write and direct the new film, marking the first time in the franchise without either Lana or Lilly Wachowski behind the camera – although the former is involved as an executive producer.

Plot details are yet to be revealed but Warner Bros. Motion Pictures boss Jesse Ehrman has said that the story will progress the fantasy world without straying from what has made the cyberpunk franchise successful.

It is also not yet clear if cast members including Keanu Reeves and Carrie-Anne Moss – who have played the roles of Neo and Trinity respectively in the previous four pictures – will be back for the new flick.

In a statement, Ehrman said: "Drew came to Warner Bros. with a new idea that we all believe would be an incredible way to continue the 'Matrix' world, by both honouring what Lana and Lilly began over 25 years ago and offering a unique perspective based on his own love of the series and characters.

"The entire team at Warner Bros. Discovery is thrilled for Drew to be making this new 'Matrix' film, adding his vision to the cinematic canon the Wachowskis' spent a quarter of a century building here at the studio."

Goddard has previous in the sci-fi genre as he earned an Oscar nomination for writing the screenplay for Ridley Scott's movie 'The Martian'. He has also written and directed the films 'The Cabin in the Woods' and 'Bad Times at the El Royale'.

The 49-year-old filmmaker said: "It is not hyperbole to say 'The Matrix' films changed both cinema and my life.

"Lana and Lilly's exquisite artistry inspires me on a daily basis, and I am beyond grateful for the chance to tell stories in their own world."