The Matrix Revolutions was a heck of a lot better than Reloaded - so much so that it almost (almost) redeemed the series.

Almost.

Revolutions wasn't a great movie. It started off veeery slooowly with a nonsensical sequence (the Trainman? The what?) that could easily, easily have been cut. In fact, extract the best twenty to thirty minutes from Reloaded and stick 'em into this one - voíla! You've got one pretty cool Matrix sequel. One. One would've been more than enough.

But I'm not complaining, because Revolutions didn't stink, and I really expected it to. I really expected it to be dull and talky like the last one, and while, yes, it was dull and talky at times, there were also some great action sequences and exciting set-pieces. And despite the obvious pretentions, it wasn't anywhere as embarrassingly sophomoric as Reloaded.

No, I really didn't like the first sequel. Yes, I'm exaggerating, but only because they really blew it with that one. When you have: a) a potentially groundbreaking franchise; b) a great set-up; c) the freedom to go anywhere you want with the story; and d) all the money in the world - and all you can come up with is The Architect...? Well, what you really need then is a good smack in the face and punch in the gut.

Still. This is all irrelevant, because what I'm trying to communicate is that Revolutions was fun. It didn't bring the series back on its feet, but at least it pulled up a chair and sat it down. It was a fine conclusion. The Matrix has left the building. Thank you very much.

Now bring on The Return of the King already.  ¶ 23:39