Cool enough for a thousand films

Rating: 8/10 (15 July 1999)

First of all, I firmly believe that "The Matrix" is a movie that demands multiple viewings to be fully appreciated. I have only seen it once, on July 14.
Having said that, though, I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed watching "The Matrix". The special effects are superb and the production design is great. I even enjoyed the fight scenes and the shoot-outs which I normally think are just a waste of time. The movie is almost unbearably cool. And the scene in which Neo (Keanu Reeves) comes walking with a black trench coat, shades, and enough guns for an entire platoon, is so cool that it almost hurts to see it. And the shoot-out following that. Wow!
Some people complain about the story, I say that the story is fascinating and interesting. Sure, there are some holes in it, but overall it's good. However, the first 45 to 60 minutes are, I'm sorry to say, mediocre and not good at all. I was, at times, bored during that first hour.
The acting is, well... not that good. Keanu Reeves has never been a convincing actor, but for being Keanu, though, he does a good job. Laurence Fishburne is the only actor in the movie that is really convincing.
It must also be said that "The Matrix" is certainly not a movie suited for the "small screen". If you think you want to see "The Matrix" I think you should rush to the nearest cinema immediately as you will not appreciate it fully renting it on video, or DVD for that matter.
In short: fascinating story, great special effects, and great fight and shoot-out scenes. I would give this movie a 7 or 8 out of 10. Too bad about the mediocre beginning. But one thing is for sure (and this might be a spoiler so if you haven't seen the movie don't read the rest), considering where the movie ends I look forward to the sequel(s) already.