The Matrix is one of those movies that didn’t really need a sequel.
But two arrived in the form of Reloaded and Revolutions ; films I liked more than many other critics did but that, inevitably, fell some way short of the classic original.
Nearly 20 years on from the previous entry, Resurrections sees the return of Keanu Reeves’ Neo and Carrie-Anne Moss’ Trinity as well as director Lana Wachowski.
How to sum up this movie, especially without spoilers? Erm, it’s a tough one.
Repeat viewings are necessary, but on first watch it’s a muddled mess with moments of sheer brilliance and head-slapping madness.
I hated the meta-heavy first half-an-hour; there was a smugness to the in-jokes and much of the dialogue completely took me out of the movie - and the Matrix universe.
Things do improve from there, though, but every time the film seems to be building up a head of steam it slows down again for exposition.
Resurrections’ biggest strength is the relationship between its two leads. While Reeves is given far too much to say and not enough opportunities to kick some a**, the scenes with him and Moss are very good as you will on the reconstruction of their splintered bond.
Most of the franchise newcomers don’t fare as well. Yahya Abdul-Mateen II ( Morpheus ) spends most of his time trying to do an impression of Laurence Fishburne, while Jonathan Groff and Neil Patrick Harris just make you pine for superior versions of their characters from previous instalments.
While Wachowski relies too much on flashback footage from the other flicks, there are many cool nods to, and callbacks from, the series’ earlier outings.
The special effects are up and down too. Nothing matches the first film’s innovative, industry-changing action, but Neo’s powers are always a sight to behold, and there are neat zombie-like “Swarms” and digital human bombs.
Rarely does a movie annoy as much as it amazes, however the poorly-paced, bizarre, frustrating, fun The Matrix Resurrections is one such flick.
● What are your thoughts on The Matrix Resurrections – and the franchise in general? Pop me an email at ian.bunting@reachplc.com and I will pass on your comments – and any movie or TV show recommendations you have – to your fellow readers.
● The Matrix Resurrections is showing in cinemas now.
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