'Sequel not as good as original' shock!

Rating: 8/10 (22 May 2003)

Yeah, yeah, so almost all sequels pale in comparison to their original counterparts. The Matrix Reloaded is lucky in that it is the sequel to one of the best blockbusters in history, so even though it isn't as good as the first film, it is still quite a riveting watch.
This is a movie that carries on the sterling tradition of the first to combine stunning CGI-assisted action with a strong sci-fi plot, some intelligent philosophising and an ultra-cool directorial style. As a stand-alone film it doesn't make much sense but makes for supremely enjoyable viewing. As a sequel it has other problems.
First and foremost, the gosh-wow factor is now missing. When we first saw Neo dodging those bullets it was mightily impressive, but now the magic has gone. The effects are bigger and better, but they are nothing new (and, for the most part, are slightly fudged by being far too fast to fully register in our minds). The hyped 'virtual camera' effect only really impresses in one instance (so as not to give away spoilers, I'll just say it is the panning-around-a-lorry moment, and you'll see what I mean). But the movie almost overdoes the CGI, nearly becoming a victim of George Lucas Syndrome as it ventures further away from the cinema and closer to the PlayStation 2.
The second problem this film has is the lack of style in direction. Both Bound and the first Matrix film dripped with gorgeous camera movements and stunning low-key sound effects, but these seem to have been mostly lost in the sequel. There is nothing in this new film to compare with the first film's stunning image of spent bullet casings raining down from a helicopter.
Thirdly, and most importantly, the philosophising and intelligent plotting has become more prominent. While those who can follow and understand these complexities will enjoy the movie even more, I suspect a good deal of the public will be left a little bewildered. In the first movie, a full understanding of the plot (not just the basics, but the Oracle's every word, the religious connotations and why there is no spoon) enhanced the movie but was not integral to its enjoyment - it worked as a simple action blockbuster too. Reloaded does not have that luxury - there is far too much philosophical discussions, bordering on the pretentious, to keep casual watchers entertained.
There are other minor quibbles that could be laid at the feet of this movie, but I suspect they are problems that will be alleviated with the onset of the third film. And that leaves just the abrupt ending to moan about.
But, as with The Lord Of The Rings and their abrupt endings and minor imperfections, this is a very good film. Disappointing after the first movie, yes, but it is still a movie whereby you end up discussing the bad points rather than the good simply because there are far fewer bad points than good.