Self-important, over-hyped, fast-paced and boring

Rating: 7/10 (16 May 2003)

Absolutely no spoilers ---
First off, you'll probably find that it's worth seeing, but go in with resonable expectations...
The action sequences are generally pretty well done, but the CG were overly noticable in parts. It lacked the engaging plot of the first Matrix and tried to compensate with 15 minute fight sequences that leaving you wondering "Why?".
The first Matrix was able to make its characters engaging without attempting to dwell too much on backstory, loved ones, etc... This film spends far too long on romance, back story, rhetoric and redundant dialogue. Far too much is spelled out in some areas and then the film attempts to far too mystical in other respects. It does neither especially well.
In many ways, this film represents what it wrong with the Hollywood movie machine. The flim is all about "more more more" in every respect other than the plot and the pacing. The film is far too disjointed to be considered "great" and the fight scenes too long and tiring to be considered on-par with the original.
I felt it diminished the original work, rather than enhancing it. But it certainly wasn't as bad as Godfather III or Highlander II.