Movie Review: The Matrix

The Matrix is the movie that got me into movies. It made me realise just how incredible and crazy movies can really be, and it blew my tiny little 13-year-old mind. And ever since then, it has gone down in my mind as not just the best science fiction movie, but the best movie ever.

The cinematography is amazing and the effects are absolutely mind-blowing for something that came out over 20 years ago. The plot is fascinating, and so different to any other science fiction of the time. I don't think I've ever seen a movie that's made me doubt reality like this. The choreography of the action sequences is absolutely impeccable, with the final fights being some of my favourite moments in film. The storyline is so captivating, interesting and original that no matter how many times I rewatch this movie I am always on the edge of my seat.

One thing that makes The Matrix stand out from any other science fiction movie is the fact that it's so intellectual, whilst still being accessible and popular with the masses. There are threads of philosophy woven into the entire movie - from the 'red pill blue pill dilemma' to the 'brain in a jar hypothesis', which makes is stand out from the majority of other flicks for not just being action, but making you think - sparking ideas for contemporaries such as Christopher Nolan. After watching this for the first time I just sat there and questioned my entire existence - nothing I have ever seen has ever had that effect on me. I literally went around my house, slapping all of the furniture and mumbling to myself "Is this real? Is any of this real?".

The only thing is that this movie was unfortunately completely ruined by the sequels which was absolutely devastating for me. I am begging you not to watch them, just leave the perfectly satisfying ending of this one alone. However, the Wachowskis' other work after this is also great and often overlooked - I myself highly recommend Jupiter Ascending and Cloud Atlas.