(spoiler) Wachowski Brothers Gone MAD! (spoiler)

Rating: 9/10 (15 May 2003)

Let me say this first: I loved Matrix Reloaded. It had some unbelievably amazing scenes, and I will most definitely watch it again and again. Having said that, I did not thoroughly enjoy the first half of the movie. While I realize that it was slow-paced (which may have been a result of all the hype) it was just...unnecessary. It seemed like the progression of the story mixed in with random fight scenes and a giant sex-dance party (which was almost totally unnecessary). I thought the Wachowski Brothers had gone mad with money and power. I was wrong. The movie most certainly makes an exciting turn just about halfway through, with the giant fight scene between Neo and ex-agent Smiths. It was one of the longer fight scenes I've seen (of that caliber). It was smooth sailing from that point; no complaints about the second half whatsoever. The car chase was the other jaw-dropper for me; I was cheering loudly at some points. Also, of course, Neo's stunning capabilities at the end were nice; that left me wondering what goodies are in store for us in Matrix Revolutions.
For those who did not enjoy the movie because of the jargon or whatnot, you need to see it again. I've read some reviews about there being too much banter that's understood only to video game nerds and Matrix lovers, but I think you might just understand better a second time around.
All in all, the first half craziness is why I gave the movie a 9 and not a 10. The movie could have also used a little more of Niobe. It did not have the sequel jinx, and I only hope it can be topped by Matrix Revolutions.