less could have been more

Rating: Null/10 (26 November 2003)

The first Matrix was fine, interesting premise, rich enough to develop a series of good stories on. 'Reloaded' is simply the original*3, but it could have been much better. Rather than spending millions of dollars on overlong, overblown, overcomplicated fights and chases (for the sake of overlong, overcomplexity which comes off sterile), the film could have explored more of the history of Zion and in particular how the current band got together. More emphasis on the humane and historical aspects could have really grounded the story and lent the sequel the real story depth needed to make it surpass the original. As such, the sequel is a glossy video game, with a confusing and rushed ending, leaving one rather indifferent as to whether it's worth seeing a third installment to find out the (rather predictable) outcome.