Neo, Trinity, Morpheus et al begin a search for the Keymaker; a reclusive figure who has the power to open many "doors" within the Matrix, including a door leading to the mainframe itself.

The Matrix: Reloaded is really, really cool! There, I've said it. The special effects will again blow you away. Fighting involving, hand to hand and weaponry are nothing short of exciting. There is a highway pursuit and battle sequence that is probably the greatest car chase scene since The French Connection. Another scene where Neo fights off a hundred or so Smiths is truly groundbreaking. A few of the other fight scenes went on a bit too long, but that is the greatest criticism of the technical aspects of the film. The color palette remains similar to that of the first movie, mainly monochromatic but with effective use of the full spectrum when called upon. I did feel the music soundtrack was less effective this time around, however.

Onto more sedate character/plot analysis... It is important to remember that this is essentially the first half of one full movie. The conclusion is set for release in the fall of 2003. With that in mind it is easier to comprehend the mad pace and incomplete notions in The Matrix: Reloaded. As we might expect, this film is heavy on thought, ideas and expectations. But I found the plot points rather easy to understand. While it is true that smaller events are possible to miss, I also found the script took several shortcuts. Shortcuts, that I’m sure were in place in the interest of simplifying the script as much as the Wachowski’s dared. I found this especially true of the manner by which the heroes of the human race come across the Keymaker. The idea that he is "kept" by a (albeit very entertaining) French-speaking jackass, I found to be a bit simplistic. And the Keymaker himself was neither mysterious, humorous nor interesting. This was disappointing. I was also disappointed with the treatment of the very interesting character know as the Oracle. We don't learn much about her and her cryptic responses induce more frustration than insight.

Morpheus and Trinity's characters continue on predictable paths. Neo has become a savior to some and a blight to other humans longing to be free of the Machines. None of these characters changes much in the film. I feel this leads them to be viewed as more super-human, rather than human. We are bombarded with the thought that humans have freedom of choice and need to be free themselves, but they seem to be lead by a trio that is on a collision course with destiny. This is a trait that seems to go against the grain of the entire theme. But, I will reserve final judgment on this and other points until after the next film is released. (as should you.)

Directed by Andy Wachowski & Larry Wachowski.