not much new in this movie

Rating: 8/10 (19 May 2003)

the only new thing _the matrix_ gave the movie world is 'bullet time'. in fact, all the major thematic ideas have been done before in much better ways. solipsism, brain in a vat? descartes. kung fu? once upon a time in china. dialog? breakin' two: electic boogaloo.
basically, the only reason to watch this movie is for how it looks. bullet time, carrie-ann moss in snug PVC, the fellows in long flowing coats, the action scenes (that looks like a real helicopter!)... what, you think the dialog sparkles? you think the ideas are clever? c'mon, now.
_the matrix_ is worth watching; fast forward through the exposition, and pay attention to the special effects and costume design.