A reasonable conclusion to a messy franchise

Rating: 7/10 (15 November 2003)

Revolutions isn't the film it should've been. Characters don't quite engage the way they might, the story doesn't thrill and enthrall as it should. Yet it still manages to be enjoyable- action sequences are well directed, particularly the central battle in the real world, which combines war movie cliche with jaw-dropping scale and scope with breathtaking effect.

How well you enjoy the rest of the movie depends on how much you enjoy Smith's snarkiness and feel for the leads- while I found it amusing, melancholy and uplifting in turns, if you were annoyed by Reloaded you'll be ready to strangle the Watchowski brothers by the finale. An affinity for Don Davis' score is a plus; giving yourself over to the emotions the (relatively tonal) music weaves improves the film immeasurably.