Reloaded struggles

Rating: 6/10 (18 August 2009)

The first forty minutes of the Matrix Reloaded is actually difficult to watch. To start with a 'dream' sequence in any film is an utter let-down. There are a number of cringe-worthy moments from the superlative dialogue, the utterly unconvincing Trinity and Neo relationship (which is conveyed very poorly and artificially), and a love triangle between Morpheus, Niobe and Locke which one does not care for.
The most interesting aspects of the film are Neo's meeting with the Oracle and the fascinating encounter with the Architect, moments which try to explain and progress issues revolving around the Matrix. Unfortunately the film seems determined to entertain rather than interact with the audience, and has big misgivings with its poor character interplay and plot development.
The 'Burly-brawl' and the long freeway sequence are captivating at certain times but it gets rather laboured and the continuous use of slow motion becomes rather banal after being repeated one too many times.
The Matrix Reloaded is delivered poorly and pompously, although it does have its moments. It is as though the Wachoski's have created Reoloaded without much focus, and were determined to place their time and effort on the action set-pieces and special effects, with large detriment to the dialogue which is inconsistent, muddled and unintentionally amusing at times.