The Matrix Reloaded

Almost four years to the day since the Matrix arrived and redefined the parameters for the sci-fi/action genres, and the hotly - nay, insanely - anticipated sequel is released. This time around Neo (Reeves) and the rest of the inhabitants of Zion learn that 250,000 Sentinel probes are drilling towards their city and will arrive in 72 hours. In a bid to halt them, Neo re-enters the Matrix, with Morpheus (Fishburne) and Trinity (Moss), to consult the Oracle (Foster) - as a reborn, rather vengeful, Agent Smith (Weaving) and even more powerful foes hunt him down. Worse comes for our blank hero in the shape of nasty visions in which he foresees the death of Trinity and must figure out a way to save her.

First, the bad news. The breathtaking originality of first movie could never have been repeated with Reloaded, as the element of surprise has been lost. Slightly more problematic is the pacing adopted by the Wachowskis. Since Reloaded is the second part of a trilogy, it is forced to take care of plot details in a manner that its fresh faced predecessor never had to worry about, which leads to some serious narrative muddlement. Despite this, The Matrix Reloaded is still a blast. The action sequences - one lengthy chase in particular - are staggering and the pure spectacle of the movie is undeniable. In short, it's pretty unmissable stuff. But then again, you don't need me to tell you that.