A good watch

Rating: Null/10 (15 August 2003)

Making a sequel to such a successful and groundbreaking hit such as "The Matrix" is a lot like breaking a World Record twice.
"The Matrix" introduced us to a new world, a new reality, and a new type of filmmaking. Making a movie that's better than that is quite an accomplishment. I don't think the Watchowski's did it, but "Matrix: Reloaded" is just as satisfying to watch as "The Matrix". It has it's flaws, just as "Matrix" had it's flaws.
The stakes are bigger, the action is bigger, and the plot is less dodgey. Neo has become comfortable in his role as the One, so his level of wire work and his use of Bullet-Time is much more evolved than in the first film.
As stated, the plot is more straight-forward. Neo and the Rebels must combat a siege of Sentinels that will destroy Zion in 72 hours. That pretty much says it all. What I found interesting was that the plot for the movie works seamlessly with the plot for the "Enter the Matrix" game, which you should play if you want to see more of Niobe or Ghost. At the end of the game, there's even a sneak peak of "Matrix: Revolutions".
As for what the film did wrong, I thought the cliffhanger was out of place. I hate "To Be Continued" endings, they leave me feeling unsatisfied. Also, I thought that the dance sequence went on for a bit too long, but I guess that was just to give the proper timing for the sex scene. That scene went on for too long and felt out of place. Who wants to see "Matrix" degenerated into a porno? But anything to see Carrie-Anne Moss naked, I guess.
I loved "Matrix: Reloaded". Although it wasn't as good as it's predecessor, it sets up "Matrix: Revolutions" very well. Think of it as a stepping stone between the First and Third movies. Just think, it could've easily been worse.