Worth the wait [spoiler free]

Rating: 8/10 (27 May 2003)

While it may have been overhyped, blown out of proportion by the deluge of websites about its mythos, and basically seen as the next reason to stay alive for a few more days, The Matrix Reloaded will not disappoint anyone.
The Wachowski brothers' storyline takes a much needed step towards SCI-FI intricity in this episode - the first being a little too close to your average action flick story wise, if you ask me - highlighting Neo's role as the savior of humanity. The cliffhanger ending does leave you feeling a little jipped though, giving an absolute sense that you'll need to see the final episode (Coming November 5th, 2003) in the trilogy to get closure. This unfortunate cut in plotline basically makes Reloaded feel a bit like only half a film. Somehow the included plot and action sequences subdued my anger and there are many of the philosophical hooks included in this one that made the first a favorite with armchair existentialists. The acting is as believable is it's going to get given the lead character - Keanu Reeves does well for the most part, seeming slightly robotic at times, but thankfully never reverts back to the "Bill & Ted" that he's struggled so hard to move away from. Monica Bellucci has a small role as well, who along with Lambert Wilson give a much needed international tint to the overwhelmingly American flavor of the first.
Technically you won't see as many revolutionary camera techniques this time around since many of the first's 'wow moments' have been swallowed up by everyone from Commercials, to sitcoms, to videogames; but the rotating camera stills and slow motion manipulation during action sequences are used to even greater effect this time around. For the first time in ages I witnessed a car chase scene that truly had me inching towards the edge of my seat and nearly break the armrest in anticipation. Likewise the CG work has much improved, further blurring the line between real sets and computer generated ones to the point of near seamlessness. Fights are choreographed with care by Woo-ping Yuen, who choreographed the first Matrix, "Iron Monkey", "Once upon a Time in China", and a slew of others. His involvement has elevated these sequences to the point of Artistry, melding physically impossible action with traditional martial art techniques.
High points: Seeing the plot fleshed out, the action sequences, the camera work.
Low Points: subtle acting blunders, plot slow at times, rugpuller ending.
Overall: 8.5/10 -- see it twice!