Neo & Trinity

The sequels to The Matrix are much-maligned and, in some cases, rightly so. The Matrix: Revolutions is, at best, a sub-par sequel and a disappointing ending to an otherwise exciting and thought-provoking series. However, The Matrix: Reloaded is criticized almost as often and, I think, unfairly so. While it may not have the same sense of newness and innovation that the first Matrix film had, it has a flair all of its own, with action scenes that, in my opinion, far exceed those in the first film, and dramatic scenes which, while sometimes odd, compare favorably to the first film. It’s why The Matrix: Reloaded is my favorite Matrix film.

As I’ve already noted, the action scenes in the second Matrix film up the ante from the first, with such monumental sights as Neo fighting off an army of Smiths, or even smaller scale moments, like Neo’s initial confrontation with Seraph. The dramatic moments work too; while the meeting with the Architect and Neo has been widely parodied, the scene does what it needs to do and does it in a creative manner; it sets up a choice for Neo, one that dictates the path of the next film, and introduces a new element to the film that, while at times confusing, is quite compelling. I may never comprehend the hate thrown at The Matrix: Reloaded, but I can at least be secure in knowing that, in the real world, my senses of its quality do not lie to me.