Astounding style and visuals, with story lagging behind

Rating: 9/10 (30 March 1999)

I don't know the Wachowski brothers, but I know what movies they watch. Go see the Matrix and you will too. Do you like Hong Kong kung fu action pics, such as Iron Monkey or any Jet Li film? So do the Wachowskis. They obviously knew who in Hong Kong to hire for their wire work and stunt choreography, because the hand to hand fight scenes in this film are excellent, and led to applause in the preview audience I saw this film with. Do you like John Woo's best Chow Yun Fat films, such as Hardboiled and the Killer? The Wachowskis do as well. There is enough flying shell casings, exploding concrete walls, and 2 handed gun play in this film for the most die hard Woo fan. Do you like Japanese Cyberpunk Anime, such as Ghost in the Shell or Akira? Those Wachowskis must love it as well. The storyline in this film seems straight out of Tokyo, and has that same "I'm not quite sure I understand what is going on, but it sure is neat" quality that much anime has. The special effects (which are very well done) are designed to generate the feel of anime in a live action film.
While the Wachowskis are not quite as good at any of the elements of this film then the true oriental masters are, they have succeeded admirably in synthesizing those elements together into one exciting film. If you are going to see this one, see it on the biggest screen you can, because on video (unless you have a home theater set up more expensive than the GNP of Belgium) this movie will simply not carry your interest. Without the stunning visuals and style to distract you, some of the plot holes and Keanu Reeves acting (Jah be praised he has to do very little acting) will be much more obvious.