Disappointing at Best

Rating: 1/10 (15 May 2003)

Let me begin by saying the first Matrix movie is one of my favorites. I wasn't looking for anything shockingly new, but I had high hopes for Reloaded. And the movie never comes through.
First off, the first half of the film takes place in Zion. Does that sound interesting? Well, it's not. Endless stretches of awkward conversations and exposition, all of it moving at a snail's pace. Remember how the first movie, even though it had a lot to explain, made it seem exciting none the less? Well this story isn't interesting. And they spend 10-15 minutes in some kind of massive dance. Ugh.
The good news is Reloaded picks up and starts to remind you of why you paid $10 to see this picture. Once Neo meets Smith in their well-publicized clash, the movie becomes very energetic and well-paced. That sequence, along with the freeway stuff, pays off as expected. But does half of a really cool movie make up for the awful half? I say no.
One of the most disappointing sequels I've seen. The parallels to Phantom Menace and Back to the Future II are remarkable.