A good draft for The Matrix, but a little too gloomy

Rating: 6/10 (25 January 2001)

Looks like Tim Burton's Gotham City with a much intricate Twilight Zone-like script. It's a pity the main character is not better embodied and the set up gives an overall impression of B-movie (like good Twilight Zone episodes). I think it mainly comes from the picturesque people living under. They seem to come straight out of some Comic and they bear quite ridiculous names (Mr. Hand, Mr. Quick, Mr. Memory - sorry that one was in The 39 steps).
What did the Wachowski brothers do better?
Implication: The Matrix designs our entire world, not just unlucky people who can no longer have their own memories.
Identification: The hero has to be chased before we ever learn why he is the hero. Then he is given an illustrated explanation of why his gift is so important. Eventually he is taught to use his power. He is John Doe and he is told he's the best.
Frightful villains: A villain with a top hat is ridiculous. A villain you would hardly notice in the street brings more fear to the screen once given a particularity. Special sunglasses and black suits are simple props - but they're quite a commonplace now.
Adding action: ...and innovate. What could be a spectacular transcription of the hero's power ? How to shoot various confrontations with the villains without using the same opposition ?
No flat ending: the hero does not get back to rags. It's over but he learned something he can't forget and just get along. He's stronger and that means something.