The Matrix

Reading (viewing) the Matrix as an epic is quite fun, especially in the context of the first movie. The wounding scene of Neo is particularly reminiscent of older epics, as is the prophecy about, “The One”. What is The Matrix compiled from, however? What is the source material? Certainly, it isn't an oral tradition. William Gibson's Neuromancer, as well as cyberpunk culture, internet chat rooms and games, underground and subversive scenes, are these the stuff of the oral tradition of The Matrix?