Not perfect, but certainly a good film

Rating: 8/10 (3 June 2003)

What a great deal of discussion the Matrix Reloaded has prompted. Even if the film has 'let down' many of the ardent fans, it has certainly provoked widespread debating with regard to the plot and given many people something to chew on until November 5th. I find this to be almost as important as the film. Whilst not succeeding on certain levels, the second installment is incredibly enjoyable and engaging throughout. This has led to many late night discussions on what will happen next. Call me a geek, but I find the storyline far exceeds what is demanded of an action film. Secondly, at least the Wachowskis are making ambitious films. It has led to debate and arguments. The special effects were irrefutably fantastic. Point out the few moments of cgi imperfection if you like, but the film dares to stretch the boundaries and I like it for these reasons.
The main problem of the film was the hype. I honestly believe that the hardcore followers thought it would cure cancer. One must remember that it is only a film, and a sequel at that. Where the first film arrived like a silent assassin and took the world by surprise, we could see this one coming from 500 yards away. As a result, the level of expectation was ultimately going to be damaging. The Wachowskis had action fans, philosophers and the the public to please at the same time. They succeeded by not folding under the wealth of pressure. Nonetheless, the amount of vitriolic posts on websites bewilders me. This is NOT a bad film by any stretch of the imagination. It is simply not as good as the first film, which was perfect in its pre-millenium timing and slick execution. Having read many reviews from respected newspapers and magazines, they all found Reloaded to be a reasonably solid film. This is because they didn't expect the film to change their world. I have seen the film twice now, and found it notably better on second viewing. Take away the expectation and I found it to improve instantly. I am sure that if the Matrix was under such close scrutiny then Reeves would have been mocked as would have some of the throwaway characters ie Switch, Apoc etc.
I am not a blind defender of the film, and do acknowledge its flaws. Some of the dialogue is trite and some of the action gratuitous. Neo's superhuman status also damages the characterisation - he is no longer vulnerable and I was rarely afraid for him. Where we once felt tense as he went into battle, I knew the outcome. However, the third film is undoubtedly darker and sees Neo (from the trailer) in trouble. Whilst there is clearly more of a 'popcorn' feel to elements of the film, it never pretends to be anything else than ambitious and plot-driven. The second film always has the dilemma of building on the first whilst leaving enough for the third. One must also remember that the whole story is not yet complete. The ignorant groans that accompanied each end of the LOTR films (which are undeniably great) are a testament to a public with little patience. "Wait and ye shall see", and personally I look forward to the third film with great anticipation.

I dont intend to analyse in detail what was great about the film, because much of it is the same reasons why I liked the first film. The storyline,the principal characters, the dark undertones, the combat, the guns, cars, bikes, and the undeniable style to name but a few. There is much to like about the Matrix Reloaded, and a few niggles. Writing out a few lines and making some of the fighting more relevant would have made it that little bit better. Despite this, I still hugely enjoyed the film and for those who are still dismayed by its lack of perfection, please drop your impossible expectations. The film is just plain old good, not perfect. JB