Essential Viewing

Rating: 10/10 (14 September 2000)

The Matrix will undoubtedly be hailed as a truly classic movie for years to come, reaching levels close to that of Star Wars. The two films (or sets of films) are both packed with spiritual truth, accounting for their timeless quality. It's the same reason we still love Shakespeare.
When I first watched The Matrix something about the central ideas rang true inside me, they really hit home and intrigued me. (I'm aware that many people will read this and think I'm talking c**p but hear me out) in an attempt to find out more I studied various belief systems concerning 'reality' and the implications of fully controlling one's perception of it, eliminating doubt and fear, through pure belief in Self. The whole thing has led me into an intense inner journey and a total reassesment of life and its purpose. So Cheers to The Matrix for triggering the whole thing off. Whenever I watch it now I discover something new.
In addition to all of that, the film is utterly stunning as a piece of visual entertainment. The fluid Woo-style violence is a pleasure to watch and the close-shave action sequences staple you to your seat. I love the way the first half of the film feeds you the theory and the second half treats you to the practice. This movie went beyond thought-provoking - I left that theatre a changed man.
It may be dressed as a big, fat, money-hoarding, film studio product but the Wachowski's are simply using that as an effective vehicle through which to communicate this spiritual message to millions of people. Incredible.