The Matrix Reloaded (5 Stars)

Four years passed between the making of "The Matrix" and the sequel, "The Matrix Reloaded". The first film had been a phenomenon. There were high expectations for the sequel. Then it appeared. And the reactions were mixed.

Why? I can understand those who were disappointed. They expected the sequel to carry on in a similar vein. But it didn't. There were larger portions of the film that took place outside of the Matrix, in the real world. Inside the Matrix we see fight scenes and action; outside of the Matrix we see a more typical science fiction story.

Nevertheless, this film has more action than the first because the questions about the Matrix's nature have already been answered and don't need to be dealt with. The 12-minute car chase and battle on the freeway is nothing short of breath-taking. I find this film just as good as the first, even though it is very different.