A flawed sequel, but still spectacular

Rating: Null/10 (16 May 2003)

Okay, first up I have to get this out of the way: The Matrix Reloaded does not equal the greatness of its predecessor. But this was to be expected and prepared for.
Reloaded, however, isnt really able to stand as a movie in its own right; it feels more like two extra hours off the end of the first movie or an introduction to the third one. While the beginning had the strength of its ideas behind it, Revolutions (the third movie) will have the conclusion of the epic struggle but Reloaded is left with nothing to do but extend the ideas.
Thats not to say it isnt good. When Reloaded hits top gear, it is an excellent film as the Wachowskis begin to show what they can do. The Highway chase scene, the Agent Smith battle and others are bound to get the adrenalin pumping. However, a plot advancement from the first film, or a plot at all would have transformed Reloaded from a series of action scenes strung together into a truly great movie.
But as it stands, Reloaded doesnt feel complete in any right. Neo has learned all the tricks he needs, he can fly, fight and kick ass but he cant do what he set out to do at the end of the Matrix. "I'm going to show you a world without them". But he doesnt, he keeps doing the same thing he's been doing all along. The Zion scenes are interesting, but too long and lacking in real point. In the end, much of the Matrix Reloaded progresses simply so that another action scene can be set up.
There are snatches of story. The debates about control throughout the movie are interesting, as is the heroes' encounter with a very learned French program. The plot really ignites in the last part of the movie when the script finally comes to the forefront and shows some ingenuity, providing a spectacular twist that renders prophecy obsolete in the face of mathematical truth. For a movie that is about spirituality and destiny in a world of machines and computers, the overriding of humanity by cold science makes for a powerful moment and a brilliant lead up to the third movie.

Why couldnt all of Reloaded have been like this? The ending is, in a way, the biggest disappointment of all because it shows how great the film might have been. But in the end, Reloaded will probably turn out to be the lesser of the trilogy, linking what I hope will be two great movies of epic proportions.
But should you see the Matrix Reloaded? Absolutely. Great action, great moments and a great twist make Reloaded an unmissable experience. Too bad it lacked a great plot, but you cant have everything, right?