The Matrix Reloaded

As a sequel to the Matrix, it didn't live up to the original, not by far. It has become pretentious instead of interesting, and the gradually developing user-friendly philosophical approach of the first Matrix has made way for straightforward philosophical speeches (e.g. from Morpheus, the Merovingian and the Architect) that could have come from my lecturer. It's a good thing I'm a bit of a nerd and appreciate the references, but the philosophical presentation was not entertaining. However, purely as a visual action spectacle it is incredible. The highway chase is incredible, the visual style is beautiful, the costumes are great, the fighting scenes are amazing (except for the 1 against 100 cgi fight). Also the new characters are interesting, as long as they're not having philosophical monologues. Basically: as a standalone action movie with a standard lousy story, it is an amazing visual feast and serves as a great popcorn flick!

Living up to the first was always going to be an uphill struggle but I enjoy this sequel. I like the characters so it’s fun to see them again whilst the universe is expanded in an interesting way. My main criticism would be the CGI in the Neo vs Agent Smith scene but it’s not as bad as I remember, The freeway chase sequence is completely bonkers, in a good way.