Review of The Matrix (1999) by Ryan H — 11 Aug 2017
Perhaps the most important action film of the last 20 years because of its widespread influence, The Matrix single-handedly defined a genre. The film is full of tropes you see today, but it's okay, because this is the film so many others emulate.
It would be a mistake to call the film entirely original, however- it borrows heavily from its predecessors such as Akira, Ghost in the Shell, Blade Runner, Alien- but where those niche films failed to find a cultural foothold in the west, The Matrix captured our attentions fully.
For the most part, the stellar special effects hold up today- but a few scenes begin to show their age. The 90's industrial rock costumes don't age as gracefully either, but they're wonderfully nostalgic- I dressed similarly my sophomore year.
Watching the film today, I'm surprised with the R-rating. We're this made today, it would have no problem passing for a PG-13. Times change, I guess.
Keanu Reeves is at his most likable, and Hugo Weaving as Agent Smith is absolute perfect casting.
But I dare you not to crack a smile when Rage Against the Machine blares in the final shot. C'mon- that's good entertainment.
This review of The Matrix (1999) was written by Ryan H on 11 Aug 2017.
The Matrix has generally received very positive reviews.
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