Visuals not helped by lack of editing

Rating: Null/10 (22 May 2003)

There is a tremendous level of visual grandeur in the "Matrix Reloaded", so much that it almost parallels the "Lord of the Rings". Almost.
Unfortunately, it takes nearly half-an-hour into the movie before any real plot is developed that the audience wishes things would kick into gear again. The first movie relied on initial force and story to draw attention. There were a few bullet-time scenes that made it interesting, but it remained fairly straightforward.
In "Reloaded" there is bullet-time and slow-motion galore. Too much in fact. Also, the plot and effects in themselves get to the ridiculously overblown stage by the last 30 minutes. Pity. The action itself leaves something to be desired. After the umpteenth judo battle began, I realized just how annoying it was getting. The fight on the tractor trailer was just too long for this reviewer's taste.
I don't mean to criticize the Wachowski Bros. because they have literally put their heart and soul into these movie, but the editing this time around is just awful. Even the wondrous sound uses in the first "Matrix" feel like they've been skimped on this time.
Overall, just not as good this time around; a lot like "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" when put in the original context. 3 out of 5.