With the release of The Matrix in 1999, Keanu Reeves shot to instant fame as the computer hacker Neo.

He underwent extensive training in martial arts to effectively enact the kung fu fight scenes in the film.

While shooting the sequel, Reeves says, he would sit in a tub of ice to soothe his aching body after each gruelling training session. He told Reuters, 'It was good fun, but hard work as well. And painful.'

His co-star in The Matrix: Reloaded, Monica Bellucci, plays the evil Persephone who vies for Neo's attention. Bellucci shot to international fame with her role in the Oscar-nominated Malèna.

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