Down the Rabbit Hole

You know, when you think about it, the original Matrix has transcended celluloid to become more then just your everyday box office hit. Much like previously acclaimed films such as 2001: A Space Odyssey or Pulp Fiction, the Matrix has managed to imprint itself upon our pop culture. The images of Neo dodging bullets and fighting the Agents are just as recognizable as Dave traveling through the wormhole or Norman Bates’ motherly sneer. For that matter, it managed to turn the word “Whoa” into every bit a catch phrase as “Luke, I am your father.” Fittingly then, Matrix: Reloaded has some large shoes to fill. Likewise, I thought that the original Matrix was more then simple eye candy. Once you get past the flashy wormhole sequence in 2001 you have the star-baby discussion to deal with. Similarly, when all of the bullet time is said and done, the viewer is left pondering over the mythological and philosophical meaning to “the One”.

Building upon the concepts introduced in the first Matrix, Reloaded picks up those ideas and begins to expand them and question them. As Gabe mentioned, this version of the Matrix is not as thoughtful as the first Matrix. Rather, it’s very sharp, a “blink and you miss it” type of film. Still, where I found little philosophy I instead discovered dark brooding against the ideas raised in the first film. I don’t want to spoil it for you, but the Wachowski brothers certainly set out to make the viewer question much of the story that they themselves developed. And of course, they also set out to make an action-packed popcorn flick. The action, much like the story, is fast paced and fun. Neo fighting Agent Smith is probably one of the big highlights, but I personally enjoyed the high-speed chase across the freeway. Yet, despite the improved special effects and fight choreography, Reloaded’s action isn’t as impacting as that of the first film. It’s not that there’s anything wrong with it, it just has the misfortune of being the second movie. As a result, people will probably remember the first film’s bullet time sequences as opposed to the second film’s action sequences.

Ultimately, I think I’m going to have to see it again before I can pass any kind of final judgment. But I do want to say that it was well worth it; I eagerly look forward to the third one as much as I look forward to re-watching this one.