Investigation launched into Matrix film shoot amid claims it was actually a party

‘No directorial instructions were given, there was no clapperboard and no one was filming’

It is a movie franchise known for playing with the idea of what is and isn’t real – now an investigation will be launched into claims the team behind the Matrix used a film shoot as cover for what was really a coronavirus rule-breaching party.

More than 200 guests, including star Keanu Reeves, were told to come in character or as extras so the bash on the outskirts of Berlin could be presented as part of the filming – according to German newspaper Bild.

Now officials in Potsdam have confirmed the allegations will be used as part of a hearing to find out if the gathering at Studio Babelsberg breached the city’s health regulations – which currently only allow for events of up to 50 people to be held due to the ongoing pandemic.

Officials from the city confirmed there had been “ongoing coordination between the health department and the studios on the subject of infection protection during filming” but that “no event was registered” for Wednesday evening when the alleged party took place.

Describing the gathering, which was reportedly hosted by producers Lana and Lilly Wachowski and codenamed Icecream Teamevent, a guest told the German tabloid: “No directorial instructions were given, there was no clapperboard and no one was filming.”

Mr Reeves and partner Alexandra Grant were reported to have left early on in the evening, while remaining guests were entertained well into Thursday morning by dancers, a DJ, and pyrotechnic show.

Refreshments included sushi, sake, pizza, curried sausages and vegan chocolate apricot cake. Bedouin-style tents and caravans were available for guests wanting more privacy.

A 39-year-old female attendee told Bild: “The mood was exuberant. Everyone was given a corona PCR test in advance. Everyone needed to come wearing a mask but many people didn’t wear them as the party wore on.”

A spokeswoman for Potsdam said: “We have taken note of the report in Bild. The health department is taking the report as an opportunity to hold a hearing. We shall see whether and what consequences result from this as a result of the statements made there.

“The state’s containment ordinance allows us to impose fines against organisers and/or individuals. Whether (and if so, against whom and in what amount) we will impose one or more fines will only be determined after the hearing.”

The Independent has reached out to representatives from the set and Warner Brothers for comment.