Neo (Keanu Reeves; John Wick) lives in his insular world of computers. However, he always is searching for the elusive unknown…the matrix. When he is contacted by Trinity (Carrie- Anne Moss; Jessica Jones) he meets Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne; John Wick 2) and is given a choice…to remain ignorant inside the matrix or to step outside and find out what is really out there. Of course, he chooses the latter ( otherwise it wouldn't be much of a movie now would it). However, ignorances bliss is a popular saying and once he learns the truth Neo wishes he could go back…but he can't.
Morpheus explains that about 100 years earlier a war was waged between humans and machines (Terminator anyone?) and that human destroyed the sun in an attempt to stop the machines. Unfortunately, the machines figured out a way to harvest energy by creating human s in pods and letting them think they are alive, inside the matrix. Morpheus learns that there is a chosen one who he believes is Neo so he finds Neo and convinces him to leave the world he knows for the harsh reality outside the Matrix where creatures attempt to kill humans.
The role is what reinvigorated Reeves' career and it's easy to see why. He established himself as a leading man/action hero who is capable of amazing stunts. Moss is an interesting choice for Trinity because to me she comes across as much older than Reeves and I'm not sure I buy into the idea of them in a romantic relationship. Fishburne is commanding as Morpheus and he definitely exudes a leadership quality necessary for the role.
The Matrix 4K UHD Blu-ray is presented in 2160p from a brand new 4K scan of the original negative. Supervised by the original Director of Photography Bill Pope, ASC I dare say The Matrix looks better than it did in its original presentation in theaters. This is truly a top-notch transfer and really shows what this new platform can do. Greens for the "data world" are spot on, while the "real world" shows blue tones. Skin texture and sharpness have never been better. I dare say it was almost like watching a new film. The newly remixed Dolby Atmos soundtrack truly packs a punch. The world of the "Matrix" is now full enveloping you. This is most evident during the third act of the film in which the lobby scene and helicopter attack are played out. It is truly an orgasm for your ears and eyes.
Even with the high-quality scan of the film. The 4k UHD disc still contains five extras carried over from over releases included 4 commentary tracks and an introduction by the Wachowskis. The Blu-ray of the set (which is also remastered from the new 4K negative) contains the rest of the features including a feature-length documentary, 18 featurettes, the music of the matrix, and trailer and tv spots.
The movie itself is a masterpiece with camera angles and action sequences (can anyone say slow motion?) that were new and innovated at the time. They, along with the plot, have aged well and with the addition of the 4K quality, this film is once again an experience everyone should have at least once. I know there will be tons of Matrix fans out there who will be buying this latest version but it is definitely for anyone who appreciates movies and the craft of filmmaking.
Grade: A
