The Matrix Resurrections culminates in a significant showdown between Neo and Agent Smith, a moment that reveals why this fourth installment fell short of expectations. The original Matrix film revolutionized action cinema, harmonizing compelling Hong Kong-style gunfights and intricate combat scenes. While both The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions received mixed reviews due to their complex storylines and awkward dialogue, they were nonetheless packed with iconic action sequences, such as the unforgettable freeway chase. Anticipations for The Matrix Resurrections ran high, especially after the teasers promised exhilarating new action, but the actual film delivered a disappointing experience.
It’s important to acknowledge that the sequel contains several intriguing elements. It serves as a meta-commentary on the Hollywood industry and the art of storytelling, broadening the franchise’s narrative world. Moreover, Resurrections offers a rewarding conclusion for Neo (played by Keanu Reeves) and Trinity (portrayed by Carrie-Anne Moss). However, the film has been polarizing among fans and critics, particularly due to its numerous unexpected twists and surprisingly lackluster action sequences.
Neo & Smith’s Fight in The Matrix Resurrections Fails to Match Past Confrontations
The Neo vs. Smith Battle in Resurrections Lacks Impact
Despite Reloaded and Revolutions receiving criticism, they did boast exhilarating action sequences, particularly the dynamic confrontations between Neo and Hugo Weaving’s Agent Smith. From their explosive brawl in the subway of the original film to their climactic battle in Revolutions, these showdowns were nothing short of spectacular. However, the news of Weaving’s absence from Resurrections—with Jonathan Groff stepping in as Smith—raised concerns. Regrettably, the much-anticipated confrontation between Neo and Smith in this sequel may be one of the film’s most disappointing moments.
This scene depicts a battle between Neo and his allies against Smith and a host of antagonistic characters, which should ideally serve as the film’s peak action moment. Unfortunately, it ultimately delivers an underwhelming experience. The tightly choreographed fights that characterized previous films are substituted with clumsy engagements against indistinct foes, and the duel between Neo and Smith scarcely creates a ripple. The pacing during this encounter feels severely off, marked by movements that come across as rigid and sluggish, eliminating any sense of urgency or suspense.
While Groff effectively embodies the new Agent Smith, the absence of Weaving significantly weakens the dynamic and intensity historically present between Neo and Smith. It almost appears that the sequel intentionally renders the Neo-Smith conflict lackluster, perhaps to underscore the futility of another battle between them. If that was the goal, it was achieved; however, it resulted in a rather bland action sequence.
Neo & Smith’s Fight Reflects Broader Action Flaws in The Matrix Resurrections
The Matrix Resurrections Lacks Memorable Action Setpieces
Aside from a climactic motorcycle chase that concludes the film, the action sequences in The Matrix Resurrections lack memorability. The franchise’s signature blend of Hong Kong-style action is conspicuously absent, replaced by fights that are framed in uninspired ways, ultimately lacking the thrill that once defined the series. A sequence featuring Neo’s training with Yahya Abdul-Mateen II’s version of Morpheus pales in comparison to similar moments in the original film, showcasing a distractingly diminished sense of style.
This shift can, in part, be attributed to the absence of revered action choreographer Yuen Woo-ping, known for his work on classics such as Fist of Legend and the Kill Bill films. Yuen’s creative vision lent a unique freshness to the fights in the original Matrix, setting a lofty benchmark for action choreography that Resurrections seems reluctant to pursue. Pacing issues and a lack of visual flair create an experience that sometimes feels lethargic, compounded by the film’s cheap-looking digital aesthetic.
|
Every Matrix Movie |
Release Year |
RT Critics Score |
|---|---|---|
|
The Matrix |
1999 |
83% |
|
The Matrix Reloaded |
2003 |
74% |
|
The Matrix Revolutions |
2003 |
33% |
|
The Matrix Resurrections |
2021 |
63% |
The film’s preoccupation with legacy over spectacle illuminates its fundamental challenge. Director Lana Wachowski aimed to probe the implications of returning to a beloved narrative while also addressing audience nostalgia. While this creative choice is bold, the mixed critical response indicates it may not have resonated as intended. Nonetheless, it is commendable that she was able to craft a $200 million sequel that audaciously critiques its own mythology.
Source: Rotten Tomatoes