I see the “red pill” as a symbolic choice point that mirrors the classic hero’s threshold. In myth, the hero must leave the ordinary world, accept a risk, and gain new knowledge—same thing when Neo takes the pill. Logically it’s a narrative device that signals a shift from ignorance to awareness, so the story can justify the character’s transformation. From a science‑ish perspective, it’s just a plot hook that lets the audience quickly understand that the hero’s reality is altered, while the mythic structure keeps the stakes high. It’s efficient storytelling, not supernatural proof.

It’s a neat shorthand, really. The pill just signals a change in perception; that’s all the audience needs to recognize the story is moving from the known to the unknown. The mythic framing gives it weight, but the mechanics stay purely narrative. No need for any real cosmic proof—just a clear sign that the hero is stepping into a new world.

You’re right, it’s basically a symbolic switch that tells the audience the rules have changed. From a storytelling point of view it’s efficient—no need to explain every detail of a new reality, just a single moment that says “now we’re on to something bigger.” It’s the same thing the ancient myths did with a hero stepping over a threshold. The logic is in the structure, not in any literal magic.

You’ve nailed the core idea—just a single action that signals a new set of rules, so the audience can follow the shift without needing a physics lecture. It’s a clean narrative shortcut, and the mythic vibe gives it that extra weight.