Cadillac CTS, Escalade Ext Land Feature Roles in Highly Anticipated New Film, 'The Matrix Reloaded'

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DETROIT, Jan. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- The Cadillac CTS and Escalade EXT -- major players in the rejuvenation of Cadillac -- will also play leading roles in a major Hollywood production. Both the CTS and EXT will be featured in a key chase scene in "The Matrix Reloaded," the eagerly anticipated first sequel to the international blockbuster "The Matrix," scheduled for release by Warner Bros. Pictures and Village Roadshow Pictures in Summer 2003.

"The Matrix Reloaded" is the second installment of the "The Matrix" franchise, produced by Joel Silver and written and directed by Larry and Andy Wachowski. Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne and Carrie-Anne Moss reprise their starring roles from "The Matrix," the acclaimed 1999 action thriller known for its visual wizardry and revolutionary action sequences, which won four Academy Awards, accumulated the biggest box office in Warner Bros. Pictures' history and became the fastest-selling DVD on record at the time of its release.

General Motors' Cadillac division and Warner Bros. Pictures are developing promotional plans for the two Cadillac vehicles that play a significant part in one of the film's breathtaking action sequences.

"'The Matrix Reloaded' will help provide great visibility among a hip, young audience for two vehicles that embody Cadillac's bold new spirit," said Mark LaNeve, Cadillac general manager. "Just as 'The Matrix' brought breakthrough technology to film, the CTS and EXT reflects Cadillac's commitment to break through with standout styling and innovative technologies."

The CTS is fashioned from Cadillac's edgy, tailored new design vocabulary. It is built on an all-new rear-wheel drive architecture, features a new 3.2- liter V6 and was the first North American vehicle to be rigorously tested at the famed Nurburgring track in Germany. The Escalade EXT combines the features of a luxury SUV with those of a premium pickup truck.

"We've incorporated the CTS and EXT into the most elaborate vehicle chase scene ever filmed," said Joel Silver, producer of "The Matrix Reloaded." "It's beyond the wildest imagination and is truly spectacular."

"The Matrix Reloaded" marks the largest product placement and theatrical tie-in that General Motors has ever done. The General Motors promotional agreement relationship with Warner Bros. Pictures began in 1999.

"The Matrix Reloaded" will be distributed worldwide in 2003 by Warner Bros. Pictures, an AOL Time Warner Company, and in select territories by Village Roadshow Pictures.