Lilly Wachowski Talks New Studio, Matrix's Black Power Roots, and Rowling Feud
In a new interview, filmmaker Lilly Wachowski discusses her new studio Anarchists United, aimed at supporting marginalized voices. She also reflects on the Black Power origins of 'The Matrix' and criticizes J.K. Rowling and Harry Potter fans for what she calls supporting trans genocide.
The interview, conducted by Marlow Stern and published on September 11, 2026, arrives amid a backdrop of heightened trans visibility in mainstream media. In 2014, Laverne Cox's Time magazine cover story, penned by Katy Steinmetz, framed trans rights as a pivotal civil rights movement.
That era saw significant cultural milestones, including "Orange Is the New Black" becoming Netflix's most-watched series, "Transparent" earning critical acclaim, and Jared Leto winning an Oscar for "Dallas Buyers Club." Caitlyn Jenner subsequently appeared on Vogue and received an ESPN courage award in 2015.
The launch of Anarchists United could offer tangible funding and distribution pathways for marginalized filmmakers, potentially shifting industry power dynamics. Wachowski's pointed criticism of Rowling and Potter fans may deepen existing cultural rifts, influencing how audiences engage with popular franchises. Additionally, highlighting the Black Power roots of The Matrix could reframe its legacy, prompting renewed scholarly and fan analysis of its symbolism.