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Matrix Revolutions is the much awaited climactic episode of the remarkable sci-fi trilogy which started with The Matrix
in 1999 and was given more texture in its sequel, the Matrix Reloaded. As this final chapter unreels, Neo (Keannu Reeves), considered the Messianic One, is trapped
in a half-way place between the world of the enslaving Matrix and the world of freedom loving humans, of which only the fortressCity of Zion near the center of the earth,
remains. Morpheus (Laurence Fishbourne), a rebel leader and Trinity (Carrie Ann-Moss), beloved of Neo, come to his rescue despite the risks. Back at Zion, it is a
matter of hours before the machines of the Matrix, with their squid like probing sentinels, reach Zion for the final battle of conquest. As the humans feverishly prepare for
their defense, Neo expresses his wish to confront the enemy at its source. At first refused because of grave danger, he finally gets his wish when Niobe, (Jada Pinkett
Smith) gives him her spaceship. As Neo and Trinity chart their way to an uncertain fate and battle all kinds of dangers, the humans desperately defend their last bastion.
Since the merits of its two predecessors are more pronounced in this spectacular film, the
expectation of a lot of action picture fans are fulfilled. There is this display of fantastic special effects and the flawless execution of well choreographed fight
sequences as well as the perfect blending of computer generated images with the actions and stunts of Kungfu master performers. Some scenes especially stand out. One
is the battle for supremacy and survival as the humans make their last stand in Zion. The terrifying images may give some viewers a glimpse of Armageddon. Another
shows the final showdown when Neo makes the supreme sacrifice and is later enveloped in beauty and light. Some more demanding viewers may consider all these as old stuff and
nothing new, but this overwhelming movie can be exciting and entertaining, although exhausting. The production design—with its images of cyberspace is noteworthy. In
the last quarter of an hour or so, the music—with its soaring choral voices contrasted with drums and percussions—is pure pleasure to hear. The actors have no
challenging roles to act out but the well written script, with its philosophical and spiritual overtones, serves as the meat that makes this spectacle meaningful.
The movie depicts the different hues of love: love between father and child, love between husband
and wife, love between man and woman and man's love for his fellow human beings. Neo's love for others impels him to sacrifice that they may be saved. Love
conquers. The movie underlines this truism. Other values depicted are courage, persistence and trust. The war scene shows these. Neo's persistence and
determination at the final confrontation enables him to conquer the evil self and triumph. The film also may leave some questions whose answers we have to find within
ourselves. What is my purpose in life? Trinity realizes hers as she lies dying and says she has achieved her purpose. What choices do we make and when?
Niobe realizes her moment of choice when she chooses to give up her spaceship so Neo may possibly fulfill his work of salvation. Even the evil Agent Smith has his
line: Every beginning has an end. Indeed nothing is permanent. But as the movie suggests the end may also mean a new beginning. And the machines which are so
important in our lives. Should we allow them to control us? The movie leaves us musing and thinking.
(Date Reviewed: November 7, 2003)
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