The Matrix Reloaded

Action, Science Fiction, Thriller

Keanu Reeves	Neo
Laurence Fishburne	Morpheus
Carrie-Anne Moss	Trinity
Monica Bellucci	Persephone
Daniel Bernhardt	Agent Johnson
Steve Bastoni	Soren
Hugo Weaving	Agent Smith
Christine Anu	Kali
Jada Pinkett Smith	Niobi
Gloria Foster	The Oracle
Andy Wachowski
Larry Wachowski
Harold Perrineau

Director	Andy Wachowski; Larry Wachowski; Ray Anthony (III)
Producer	Joel Silver
Writer	Andy Wachowski; Larry Wachowski

Considering the lofty expectations that preceded it, The Matrix Reloaded triumphs where most sequels fail. It would be impossible to match the fresh audacity that made The Matrix a global phenomenon in 1999, but in continuing the exploits of rebellious Neo (Keanu Reeves), Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne), and Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss) as they struggle to save the human sanctuary of Zion from invading machines, the codirecting Wachowski brothers have their priorities well in order. They offer the obligatory bigger and better highlights (including the impressive "Burly Brawl" and freeway chase sequences) while remaining focused on cleverly plotting the middle of a brain-teasing trilogy that ends with The Matrix Revolutions. The metaphysical underpinnings can be dismissed or scrutinized, and choosing the latter course (this is, after all, an epic about choice and free will) leads to astonishing repercussions that made Reloaded an explosive hit with critics and hardcore fans alike. As the centerpiece of a multimedia franchise, this dynamic sequel ends with a cliffhanger that virtually guarantees a mind-blowing conclusion. --Jeff Shannon