The Matrix Resurrections: Was Another Sequel Needed?

Like every other film sequel that comes out years after the first film, The Matrix Resurrections is also posed with the same question; the reason behind its existence. The Matrix has always represented the very best of SciFi. A mega influential film that reshaped how filmmakers envisioned action flicks and science fiction, the franchise has always been miles ahead of the other films in their genre that pollute the mainstream. The statement holds true for the latest sequel as well.

The Matrix Resurrections is ambitious, and gives a bold and befitting answer to anyone questioning the film’s existence. The film is a honest continuation of the trilogy and doesn’t exist merely for the fans’ amusement. The film has major callbacks to the first three films, but its intention is not to tarnish their legacy. It effectively builds on the previous films and delivers a very satisfying flick that’s full of everything that gave The Matrix its reputation.

!(Minor Spoilers Ahead)!

The film is the very embodiment of “meta” in the mainstream, the existence of The Matrix as a game in the actual matrix, the ocassional rants about society. The first act involving Neo where he’s forced to work on a sequel of the game trilogy may very well be a reflection of The Wachowskis’ reluctance towards working on a sequel, which was made evident on several occasions. “Philosophy in tight shiny PVC” is actually not an entirely inappropriate sentence to define the trilogy, and that’s a quote directly out of the film, goes on to show how “meta” the film is. Although too much of this self referencing can easily become off-putting.

Without getting into the specifics of the plot or the storyline, the film is quite entertaining and consistent throughout with no major signs of plot lagging or sudden uncalled shifts in tone. Jonathan Groff and Neil Patrick Harris, in particular offer great performances showcasing their range and versatility, along with the rest of the cast. The Matrix Resurrections is not as revolutionary or original like 1999’s The Matrix, but it’s a very enjoyable affair, one that The Matrix fans would certainly appreciate.

Rating: 4/5

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