Fully reloaded

Second 'Matrix' flick issued as jam-packed double disk

By GERRY PUTZER

It seems some viewers chose the blue pill for 'Matrix Reloaded.'

It's back to the future on Tuesday when "The Matrix Reloaded" arrives on DVD (Warner, 138 mins., rated R, $29.95). The first sequel to the 1999 sci-fi hit comes with enough behind-the-scenes features to keep fans satisfied for hours - or even until next month, when part three, "The Matrix Revolutions," opens.
The story picks up six months after the end of the first film. The evil Machine Army is marching on the last human city, Zion. Our hero Neo (Keanu Reeves) has achieved the height of his physical and metaphysical powers, but his man-in-black archenemy, Agent Smith (Hugo Weaving), is also back - and there are multiple versions of him to deal with.

No less a personage than Prof. Cornel West appears on the disk, saying: "The movie brings together so-called high culture, so-called middle-brow, so-called low culture to create a composite art form. There are 400 levels of the movie."

In fact, everyone involved - from producer Joel Silver to technical crew to stars Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss, Jada Pinkett Smith and Monica Bellucci - confesses sheer wonder and joy at the whole endeavor. Of the special effects, Silver says, with "Matrix"-like logic, "We've raised the bar so high, there is no bar."

The double DVD also looks at the making of the video game "Enter the Matrix," the short-film series "The Animatrix" and even the "Matrix"-themed commercials for the drink Powerade. All that's missing are the writer-directors, Andy and Larry Wachowski. Doing a commentary track trying to explain it all certainly would have been a daunting task.

Heeeere's Johnny!

'The Ultimate Johnny Carson Collection" (R2 Entertainment, 420 mins., not rated, $69.99) is really big. How big is it? It's so big it takes up three disks and seven hours.

The set, highlighting the talk-show giant's 30 years on "The Tonight Show," includes Carson's Carnac the Magnificent, "Daniel Boone" star Ed Ames and his remarkable tomahawk toss and many moments that remind us of the host's triple-threat gift for impressions, physical comedy and topical humor.

The collection spans 1962-92, though the '60s (when the show emanated from New York) are lightly represented. There's a 1982 NBC special chronicling Carson's return to his Nebraska hometown; his penultimate "Tonight" episode, with Robin Williams and Bette Midler, and the final show, in which he introduces his favorite clips.

Latest starlet sightings

While many hot starlets seem to make it into gossip columns more frequently than onto the big screen, they are indeed working. It's just that their movies often get a fleeting release or go straight to video. The good news is: Street date has arrived.

In stores Tuesday is "Home Room" (DEJ Prods., 132 mins., rated R, $24.95), a drama about a high-school shooting, starring "Traffic's" Erika Christensen, Busy Philipps of "Dawson's Creek" and Agnes Bruckner of "Blue Car" (see item at top right). In the thriller "The Hole" (Dimension, 102 mins., rated R, $29.99, out Tuesday) Thora Birch ("Ghost World") and Keira Knightley ("Pirates of the Caribbean") play students trapped in an old wartime bunker in England.

Pop singer Mandy Moore stars with Germany's Franka Potente in the romantic comedy "All I Want" (aka "Try Seventeen," Columbia TriStar, 93 mins., rated R, $24.95), while Potente also appears in the horror sequel "Anatomy 2" (Columbia TriStar, 101 mins., rated R, $24.95).

And fans of David Lynch and older starlets should note that Madchen Amick of "Twin Peaks" is in two thrillers - "Global Effect" (DEJ Prods., 95 mins., rated R, $24.98) and "Scenes of the Crime" (Columbia TriStar, 91 mins., rated R, $24.95) - while Laura Harring of "Mulholland Drive" stars in the comedy "Loco Love" (aka "Mi Casa, Su Casa," Artisan, 95 mins., rated PG, $24.95). The latter also features starlet emeritus Barbara Eden.

Tuesday's New Releases

BLUE CAR (Miramax, 88 mins., rated R, $29.99) A distressed teenager (Agnes Bruckner) from a broken home turns to her middle-aged English teacher (David Strathairn), not realizing his support has some strings attached. Writer-director Karen Moncrieff, in her DVD commentary, expresses more sympathy for the teacher than viewers are likely to have.

WRONG TURN (Fox, 85 mins., rated R, $27.98) Makeup master Stan Winston creates the creepy look for a West Virginia clan of inbred cannibals who go after a group of lost young people. The DVD has deleted scenes; a featurette on Winston; commentary by stars Desmond Harrington and Eliza Dushku and director Rob Schmidt, and repeated takes of a character meeting her doom.

THE SAFETY OF OBJECTS (MGM, 121 mins., rated R, $29.98) Suburbia is scrutinized in this drama about several families facing individual crises and a shared dark past. Glenn Close, Dermot Mulroney and Patricia Clarkson are among the large cast.

OWNING MAHOWNY (Columbia TriStar, 105 mins., rated R, $24.95) The fact-based story of an in-debt bank manager (Philip Seymour Hoffman) who uses the company funds as his personal stake at the casino.

Now on DVD

SHOAH (New Yorker, 566 mins., not rated, $149.99) Claude Lanzmann's 1985 documentary on the Holocaust uses no archival footage, only contemporary interviews with survivors and others, to try to determine the day-to-day specifics of how the slaughter was perpetrated. It's 9-plus hours of talking (or silently contemplating) heads, and it's riveting throughout. There are no DVD extras, but a booklet helps to identify the principal interviewees.

SCHIZOPOLIS (Criterion, 96 mins., not rated, $39.95) Steven Soderbergh's surreal 1997 comedy is about a speech writer for the founder of a new religion. Soderbergh plays both the writer and his wife's lover, and the DVD has a suitably odd feature of Soderbergh interviewing himself.

THE OFFICE: SEASON ONE (BBC, not rated, $29.98) This British comedy series, just starting its second season on BBC America, takes a deadpan documentary approach to the workings of an office facing downsizing. The double DVD has extra scenes and a making-of featurette.

Originally published on October 12, 2003

Reload Before the Revolution Begins

In the powerful second chapter of the Matrix trilogy, Neo (Keanu Reeves), Trinity (Moss) and Morpheus (Fishburne) lead the revolt against the Machine Army as it attacks Zion, the last human city on earth, unleashing their arsenal of extraordinary skills and weaponry against the systematic forces of repression and exploitation. In their quest to save the human race from extinction, they gain greater insight into the construct of The Matrix and Neo's pivotal role in the fate of mankind.
What is The Matrix? The question is not yet fully answered. And it leads to another: Who created The Matrix? The answers lead to more worlds of bold possibility - and to a destiny that passes from revelations to Revolutions.

Reload before the Revolution begins. 'The Matrix Reloaded'™ (rated R) is available from Warner Home Video on DVD and VHS October 14th. The two-disc DVD release includes an explosion of mind-freeing bonus features including Preload, a behind the scenes overview of the film with on-location footage and cast and crew interviews; The Freeway Chase, behind the scenes footage showing the filming of the mind-blowing action scene; What is The Animatrix?, a glimpse into the history and intrigue of the Animatrix and Enter the Matrix, a short film on the making of best-selling video game based on the Matrix franchise.

Win 'The Matrix Reloaded'™ now from Zap2it. We have five (5) DVD sets to give away so enter now. You must be 18 years of age or older and a legal resident of the U.S. to enter. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY.

Click Here To Enter!

To check out the official 'Matrix' site, click here!

Entries accepted through October 24, 2003.

Official Rules:

1. TO ENTER: You must be 18 years of age or older and a legal resident of the U.S. to enter. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Sweepstakes runs between the dates specified on the sweepstakes entry page. To enter on the Internet, go to www.Zap2it.com, click on the link for the sweepstakes and fill out the registration form completely. To enter by mail, send a 3 x 5 card with your full name, address and daytime phone number and, if available, e-mail address, to: Zap2it.com, 3340 Ocean Park Blvd., Suite 1060, Santa Monica, CA 90405. Only one entry per household. One entry per email address and computer. Subsequent entries from a single computer will delete earlier entries from that computer. All entries must be received by 12:00 noon, Pacific Time, on end date specified on sweepstakes entry page. Entrants must use their own name. Copies or other mechanical reproductions, facsimiles, entries containing technical or electronic reproductions, e-mail entries containing attached files, mail entries stamped with a private postage meter, and entries which do not comply with these rules are not eligible and will be rejected. Entries become the property of Tribune Media Services and will not be returned. Tribune Media Services is not responsible for lost, incomplete, damaged, illegible, late, postage due or misdirected entries, or for errors in mechanical transmission, technical difficulties or inability to transmit Internet entries.

2. PRIZES: Prize(s) and number of prize winners are specified on the sweepstakes entry page. Prize winner(s) must claim their prize(s) within three weeks of the sweepstakes end date as specified on the sweepstakes entry page, or the prize will be awarded to another entrant selected in the same manner as the winner of the unclaimed prize. Prizes are non-transferable, non-negotiable and not redeemable for cash, credit or merchandise, unless specifically stated in these Rules. One prize per household. If any prize becomes unavailable for any reason, Tribune Media Services reserves the right to substitute a prize of comparable value. Total value of all prizes for the sweepstakes is less than $100.

3. WINNERS: Winners will be selected by random drawing from among eligible entries received. Winners will be notified by e-mail (at the e-mail address provided on the entry form) or by telephone within one week of the sweepstakes end date as specified on the sweepstakes entry page. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received. Entrants agree Tribune Media Services has the sole right to decide all matters and disputes arising from this Sweepstakes and that Tribune Media Services' decision is final and binding. Except where prohibited by law, entrants agree to allow use of their name, voice, photograph, likeness and any information provided on entry form, in any medium of communication, including print, Internet, radio and/or television and for any purpose, including advertising, promotional or other purposes, by Tribune Media Services, its affiliates or sponsors, without additional compensation. Winners, by acceptance of their prize, agree to release, indemnify and hold harmless Tribune Media Services, their promotional partner(s), their respective parent companies and affiliates, and each of their respective employees, representatives, contractors, sponsors and advertisers, from any and all liability, loss, damage, costs or claims related to any allegation regarding the award of, the receipt of, or the use of their prize. Tribune Media Services is not responsible for personal injury of any prizewinner incurred in connection with the use of their prize. Winners may be required to execute an affidavit of eligibility and release of liability prior to receiving their prize. Winners assume all applicable tax liability for their prize. For a list of winners, send a stamped, self-addressed envelope no sooner that three weeks after the sweepstakes end date specified on the sweepstakes entry page to: List of Winners, Zap2it.com, 3340 Ocean Park Blvd., Suite 1060, Santa Monica, CA 90405.

4. ELIGIBILITY: Sweepstakes is not open to employees of Tribune Media Services, their promotional partner(s) or their immediate family, or to employees or immediate family of any of their affiliated companies, licensees, advertising or promotional agencies, or sponsors. Sweepstakes is sponsored by Tribune Media Services, c/o Zap2it.com, 3340 Ocean Park Blvd., Suite 1060, Santa Monica, CA 90405. Void where prohibited or restricted.

5. INTERNET: If for any reason, the Internet-related portion of this Sweepstakes is not capable of running as planned, including infection by computer virus, tampering, fraud, technical failure, or any other cause which corrupts or threatens the administration, security or integrity of the Sweepstakes, Tribune Media Services reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to terminate or suspend the Sweepstakes or any portion of the Sweepstakes. ANY ATTEMPT TO DAMAGE OR UNDERMINE THE FAIR AND LEGITIMATE OPERATION OF THIS SWEEPSTAKES WILL RESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION FROM THE SWEEPSTAKES. Information submitted in Internet entries, including entrant's name, address, e-mail address, etc., may be used by Tribune Media Services for marketing or promotional purposes. Sweepstakes rules shall be governed and enforced pursuant to Illinois law, excluding choice of law provisions.

6. This site, including, without limitation, its promotions, contests and sweepstakes, is not affiliated with or endorsed by Warner Bros. Entertainment, its affiliates, subsidiaries or parent companies (the "Warner Bros. Entertainment Entities"). Entrants to any promotions, contests, sweepstakes, or any other activity conducted by this site agree that the Warner Bros. Entertainment Entities shall not be liable for any damage or cause of action of any kind which may arise from the activities of this site or the entrants' participation therein. ) 2003 Warner Home Video. ) Warner Bros. Entertainment (s03) LLC All rights reserved.

Reload Before the Revolution Begins

In the powerful second chapter of the Matrix trilogy, Neo (Keanu Reeves), Trinity (Moss) and Morpheus (Fishburne) lead the revolt against the Machine Army as it attacks Zion, the last human city on earth, unleashing their arsenal of extraordinary skills and weaponry against the systematic forces of repression and exploitation. In their quest to save the human race from extinction, they gain greater insight into the construct of The Matrix and Neo's pivotal role in the fate of mankind.
What is The Matrix? The question is not yet fully answered. And it leads to another: Who created The Matrix? The answers lead to more worlds of bold possibility - and to a destiny that passes from revelations to Revolutions.

Reload before the Revolution begins. 'The Matrix Reloaded'™ (rated R) is available from Warner Home Video on DVD and VHS October 14th. The two-disc DVD release includes an explosion of mind-freeing bonus features including Preload, a behind the scenes overview of the film with on-location footage and cast and crew interviews; The Freeway Chase, behind the scenes footage showing the filming of the mind-blowing action scene; What is The Animatrix?, a glimpse into the history and intrigue of the Animatrix and Enter the Matrix, a short film on the making of best-selling video game based on the Matrix franchise.

Win 'The Matrix Reloaded'™ now from Zap2it. We have five (5) DVD sets to give away so enter now. You must be 18 years of age or older and a legal resident of the U.S. to enter. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY.

Click Here To Enter!

To check out the official 'Matrix' site, click here!

Entries accepted through October 24, 2003.

Official Rules:

1. TO ENTER: You must be 18 years of age or older and a legal resident of the U.S. to enter. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Sweepstakes runs between the dates specified on the sweepstakes entry page. To enter on the Internet, go to www.Zap2it.com, click on the link for the sweepstakes and fill out the registration form completely. To enter by mail, send a 3 x 5 card with your full name, address and daytime phone number and, if available, e-mail address, to: Zap2it.com, 3340 Ocean Park Blvd., Suite 1060, Santa Monica, CA 90405. Only one entry per household. One entry per email address and computer. Subsequent entries from a single computer will delete earlier entries from that computer. All entries must be received by 12:00 noon, Pacific Time, on end date specified on sweepstakes entry page. Entrants must use their own name. Copies or other mechanical reproductions, facsimiles, entries containing technical or electronic reproductions, e-mail entries containing attached files, mail entries stamped with a private postage meter, and entries which do not comply with these rules are not eligible and will be rejected. Entries become the property of Tribune Media Services and will not be returned. Tribune Media Services is not responsible for lost, incomplete, damaged, illegible, late, postage due or misdirected entries, or for errors in mechanical transmission, technical difficulties or inability to transmit Internet entries.

2. PRIZES: Prize(s) and number of prize winners are specified on the sweepstakes entry page. Prize winner(s) must claim their prize(s) within three weeks of the sweepstakes end date as specified on the sweepstakes entry page, or the prize will be awarded to another entrant selected in the same manner as the winner of the unclaimed prize. Prizes are non-transferable, non-negotiable and not redeemable for cash, credit or merchandise, unless specifically stated in these Rules. One prize per household. If any prize becomes unavailable for any reason, Tribune Media Services reserves the right to substitute a prize of comparable value. Total value of all prizes for the sweepstakes is less than $100.

3. WINNERS: Winners will be selected by random drawing from among eligible entries received. Winners will be notified by e-mail (at the e-mail address provided on the entry form) or by telephone within one week of the sweepstakes end date as specified on the sweepstakes entry page. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received. Entrants agree Tribune Media Services has the sole right to decide all matters and disputes arising from this Sweepstakes and that Tribune Media Services' decision is final and binding. Except where prohibited by law, entrants agree to allow use of their name, voice, photograph, likeness and any information provided on entry form, in any medium of communication, including print, Internet, radio and/or television and for any purpose, including advertising, promotional or other purposes, by Tribune Media Services, its affiliates or sponsors, without additional compensation. Winners, by acceptance of their prize, agree to release, indemnify and hold harmless Tribune Media Services, their promotional partner(s), their respective parent companies and affiliates, and each of their respective employees, representatives, contractors, sponsors and advertisers, from any and all liability, loss, damage, costs or claims related to any allegation regarding the award of, the receipt of, or the use of their prize. Tribune Media Services is not responsible for personal injury of any prizewinner incurred in connection with the use of their prize. Winners may be required to execute an affidavit of eligibility and release of liability prior to receiving their prize. Winners assume all applicable tax liability for their prize. For a list of winners, send a stamped, self-addressed envelope no sooner that three weeks after the sweepstakes end date specified on the sweepstakes entry page to: List of Winners, Zap2it.com, 3340 Ocean Park Blvd., Suite 1060, Santa Monica, CA 90405.

4. ELIGIBILITY: Sweepstakes is not open to employees of Tribune Media Services, their promotional partner(s) or their immediate family, or to employees or immediate family of any of their affiliated companies, licensees, advertising or promotional agencies, or sponsors. Sweepstakes is sponsored by Tribune Media Services, c/o Zap2it.com, 3340 Ocean Park Blvd., Suite 1060, Santa Monica, CA 90405. Void where prohibited or restricted.

5. INTERNET: If for any reason, the Internet-related portion of this Sweepstakes is not capable of running as planned, including infection by computer virus, tampering, fraud, technical failure, or any other cause which corrupts or threatens the administration, security or integrity of the Sweepstakes, Tribune Media Services reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to terminate or suspend the Sweepstakes or any portion of the Sweepstakes. ANY ATTEMPT TO DAMAGE OR UNDERMINE THE FAIR AND LEGITIMATE OPERATION OF THIS SWEEPSTAKES WILL RESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION FROM THE SWEEPSTAKES. Information submitted in Internet entries, including entrant's name, address, e-mail address, etc., may be used by Tribune Media Services for marketing or promotional purposes. Sweepstakes rules shall be governed and enforced pursuant to Illinois law, excluding choice of law provisions.

6. This site, including, without limitation, its promotions, contests and sweepstakes, is not affiliated with or endorsed by Warner Bros. Entertainment, its affiliates, subsidiaries or parent companies (the "Warner Bros. Entertainment Entities"). Entrants to any promotions, contests, sweepstakes, or any other activity conducted by this site agree that the Warner Bros. Entertainment Entities shall not be liable for any damage or cause of action of any kind which may arise from the activities of this site or the entrants' participation therein. ) 2003 Warner Home Video. ) Warner Bros. Entertainment (s03) LLC All rights reserved.

Imax is mad for Matrix

By PHYLLIS FURMAN
DAILY NEWS BUSINESS WRITER

"The Matrix Revolution" starring Keanu Reeves will be seen in conventional theaters and on Imax screens simultaneously.

The curtain's going up on Imax.
It won't just be science fiction geeks watching closely on Nov. 5, when "The Matrix Revolutions," debuts on Imax big screens across the country.

The "Matrix" release marks the first time a big live action Hollywood flick has ever opened on the same day at both conventional and Imax theaters - and Imax wants Hollywood and theater operators to notice.

"It's a watershed moment," said Leland Westerfield, media analyst at Jefferies & Co. "It's the first time we'll see whether audiences prefer the big screen 70 mm experience over 35 mm."

Imax has gone Hollywood in a bid to ramp up its network of Imax theaters around the world.

The company once known mostly for educational films like "Everest" makes most of its cash from leasing its equipment to theater chains.

To keep growing, Imax needs to latch on to compelling movies, and that's where Hollywood comes in. With new technology that lets the company reformat conventional 35 mm film for the big screen, Imax has begun to strike deals with the studios.

Released on large screens so far: "Apollo 13," "Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones" and "The Matrix Reloaded," which has taken in $12.4 million at the box office since its Imax release. But those movies came out after their debut in theaters.

By releasing "Matrix Revolutions" the same day as it debuts on conventional screens, Imax will get the full impact of a mega marketing blitz funded by "Matrix" studio, Warner Bros.

"Warner Bros. is already creating a lot of buzz," said Marla Backer, an analyst at Research Associates.

As Hollywood has tuned in, so has Wall Street. Imax' stock has doubled since the beginning of the year, closing Friday at $7.91.

So far fans have been willing to pay up for the big screen experience. Theatergoers who saw the Imax version of "Matrix Reloaded" at the Imax theater in the popular Sony multiplex at Broadway and W. 68th Street paid $13 a ticket, vs. $10 a ticket at a regular screen.

"Our strategy is to offer the consumer a premium product at a premium price," said Imax co-CEO Brad Wechsler. But Imax has to get more studios to sign on. It hasn't announced a big Hollywood deal in some time.

Last week, MGM chief Alex Yemenidjian, was asked at a big media conference whether he'd consider an Imax version of MGM's next James Bond flick.

Yemenidjian said he's talking to Imax, but MGM has yet to commit to anything. Also on Imax's wish list: the next "Harry Potter" and "Spider Man 2."

"I would like to have more visibility," Wechsler said. "We want to show theater owners we have a continuous flow of product."

Countdown to the revolution

October 2, 2003

Sure, some of you were bored or bamboozled by The Matrix Reloaded.

But Australians liked it sufficiently to spend more than $33 million at the box office on it. Which suggests if the Wachowski Brothers deliver on the final piece in the puzzle, The Matrix Revolutions, it should give the Lord of the Rings series a run for its money.

There's no word yet on the stars coming out for a Sydney premiere – watch this space – but Warner Bros Pictures and Village Roadshow have announced they will release The Matrix Revolutions simultaneously "in every major city around the world on November 5".

That means we east coast Aussies will see it at 11pm on Wednesday, November 5. I think. Which is 9am, New York time.

"The zero-hour simultaneous opening of Revolutions once again positions the Matrix films as the cutting-edge experience in motion pictures," Dan Fellman, president of domestic distribution, Warner Bros Pictures, says in a release.

Billboard Bits: Springsteen, Stones, 'Matrix Revolutions'

Maverick Records has set a Nov. 4 release date for the soundtrack to "The Matrix Revolutions." The Warner Bros. movie -- scheduled to open Nov. 5 in U.S. theaters -- is the third film in "The Matrix" trilogy, which began with 1999's "The Matrix" and continued with the 2003 sequel "The Matrix Reloaded."

Music by composer Don Davis will dominate "The Matrix Revolutions" soundtrack, which will also feature music from ambient acts Pale 3 and Juno Reactor. Davis and Juno Reactor were part of "The Matrix Reloaded" soundtrack (Maverick), which was released in May. Davis' compositions on the upcoming album will be a mix of classical opera and post-modern concerto, while the rest of the soundtrack will combine elements of rock and electronica.

-- Carla Hay, N.Y.

The Matrix Reloaded

The real sequel is in November.

September 30, 2003 - "Surprised to see me?" - Agent Smith.

There is a principle in psychology, and I wish I could remember what it's called, that says the greater the expectations for something or someone, the less likely those expectations can be reached. No matter what you do or deliver, the expectations will always be higher.

It's hard to apply this to Hollywood because in most cases, the big let-downs have come from a film that just plain fails to deliver, not because our expectations were too high. Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle was one example.

X2: X-Men United delivered big. Both Lord of the Rings films delivered huge.

The Matrix Reloaded did not.

The Movie

"Where's mah puss- hey!" - Link

It's been six months since Neo (Keanu Reeves) traded hacking Linux code (yes I'm being facetious) for a Spartan life on the Nebuchadnezzar. Unlike most hackers, he gets to wake up next to a hottie every morning. He and Trinity (Carrie-Ann Moss) are now a solid couple, although he's haunted by constant dreams of her death at the hands of an Agent.

The Nebuchadnezzar returns to Zion, home to 250,000 humans not plugged into the Matrix. Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne) has to face the music with the Council and Commander Lock (Harry Lennix), who doesn't believe in the prophecy that Morpheus clings to so strongly. There's also more than just a little schoolyard jealousy as Lock is hooked up with Commander Niobe (Jada Pinkett Smith), Morpheus's old girlfriend.

Morpheus brings bad news from the field. A ship called the Osiris found news that the machines are drilling straight down from the surface and bringing 250,000 sentinels with them. During this visit, Neo had a disturbing encounter that hints at the return of his nemesis, Agent Smith (Hugo Weaving).

The council wants to assemble all available ships to fight back, but Morpheus wants to depart to contact the Oracle (the late Gloria Foster). Before departing there's a party/rave/orgy in Zion that's the source of the most spleen against the movie. Well, if you're going to die tomorrow, might as well get laid one last time (or more).

The next day, a returning crew tells Morpheus of a message from the Oracle, and the Nebuchadnezzar departs. Neo finds her and she says to look for the Key Maker. Neo is off on his scavenger hunt, but not before running into Agent Smith. And 99 more Agent Smiths.

I'll skip the rest for the one or two people who haven't seen the film. So where do I start? The brilliance of The Matrix lay in its mystery. All during the spring of 1999, people were asking "What is The Matrix?" It was a marketing campaign not seen since The Blair Witch Project but with a bigger payoff. Forty minutes into the film, Morpheus held up a Duracell battery and we got a shock not seen since "Luke, I am your father."

For the sequel, either the Wachowski brothers couldn't come up with a new shocker, or they just ran out of ideas. The revelation from The Architect simply doesn't cut it, mostly because he is so bloody obtuse. He sounds like a cross between Plato and Frasier Crane.

Instead they just upped the volume and dropped the substance. The fights are bigger and more spectacular, the car chase is amazing, and there are a lot of new characters, only one of which I liked. But upping the volume doesn't continue to enhance the storyline, which basically was Neo as a Christ-like savior.

The Wachowskis decided to make an all-encompassing story with the Enter the Matrix videogame, The Animatrix animated film, plus this movie and the third film, Matrix Revolutions, all tied together. I think this was a mistake. The Matrix Reloaded should have been an entirely self-contained story, with the game and anime as supplements and subplots that build out, but aren't needed to fully understand the story.

I don't know anyone who has seen Final Flight of the Osiris who doesn't think it should have been in the movie instead of that silly rave. That was a complete waste of time, far too long and played like an extended Christina Aguilera video.

Of the characters, The Merovingian really was the only memorable one. Not only for his deadpan delivery, but because he is the one who gives us the one bit of new information in this film. "I have survived your predecessors and I will survive you." Well, that got my attention.

In the end, the movie's spiritual, psychological and philosophical elements become window dressing to an audio/visual spectacle for your eyes and ears, not your mind and heart. I admire the effort of these actors. Carrie-Ann Moss broke her leg during the shoot and Hugo Weaving struggles with epilepsy. In the extras, he says he's only really good for right-handed punches, not lefts or kicks. These people are troopers. So the failure isn't theirs.

I don't think Andy and Larry Wachowski lost it, but they got very full of themselves and misfired. When The Two Towers ended, the overwhelming feeling was I could not wait for The Return of the King. My only feeling toward The Matrix Revolutions is that I hope it's the sequel we were expecting last May.

The Video

"My goodness, look at you. You turned out all right, didn't you?" - The Oracle.

Outstanding. The 2.35:1 anamorphic print is near perfection. I can't say it's perfect because 1) perfection is impossible, even for LotR, and 2) I have minor quibbles. More later.

The bitrate is a healthy 7.5MB/sec. and the transfer is on par with The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers. It is that good. The colors are rock solid with zero grain in background images, which is where I usually see it.

There's nothing for edge enhancement and despite spending two hours squinting at shoulders, where ghosts often show, I didn't see one. Everything has a clean, sharp edge to it with no bleed.

The fine detail is outstanding. You can see every pockmark on Fishburn's face, every last bump and detail in Neo and Morpheus's clothing, all the grit and rust on the grimy buildings of Zion. The sharpness is amazing. During motion, the fine detail does not blur at all.

Black levels are solid, as are white levels. Early on there is a scene when the Nebuchadnezzar is arriving at Zion, where we see a room full of, for lack of a better term, air traffic controllers. The room is blinding white. Yet there is no blooming, you can see the edges of their clothes and the seats they are sitting on.

My one quibble: there are moments when the CG is really, really obvious. The two worst offenders are the Neo vs. 100 Smiths fight and the Morpheus vs. Agent Johnson on top of the 18 wheeler. Trinity's fall from the high rise isn't too good either. When CG/blue screen is obvious, it kills the suspension of disbelief. But I'm not docking points for that offense.

Languages and Audio

"Go ahead, shoot. The best thing about being me is there are so many me-s." - Agent Smith.

Definitely, we have a winner here. The movie comes in a Dolby Digital 5.1 English or French soundtrack, with English, Spanish and French subtitles, and it's super. Everything is crystal clear, from the voices to the techno soundtrack to gunfire to explosions and flying glass.

If there is a complaint to be had it's that the voices are often very, very soft. Smith and Morpheus are the two worst offenders, but Trinity does it when she's supposed to be fretting over Neo. Then it becomes very hard to hear, which is a bit of an annoyance since nothing else about this film is subtle. The use of positional audio is also top notch. When bullets are fired, they whoosh from the front speakers to the back. Explosions also jump around the speakers. All in all it's quite immersive.

They really pumped up the LFE channel quite a bit. There's fight scenes where every punch is punctuated with a thump from the subwoofer, almost to the point of overkill. The Neo vs. 100 Smiths fight sounded like Slayer's drummer double bass drumming, and wait until the building with the mainframe explodes at the end. Advise your neighbors to run. Or come watch it.

Packaging and Extras

"You'll handle this? You know, your predecessors were much more respectful." - The Merovingian.

The two-disc set comes in an Amaray case with a swinging disc holder in the middle. It comes with a flier to sell Matrix products, plus a fold-out flier with a chapter list and the listing of all the extras on disc two.

The trailer for The Matrix Revolutions that was shown in theaters after the credits rolled is here, as well. That super new one released earlier this week is, regrettably, not available.

For a movie of this caliber, the extras are a monumental disappointment. It seems not only did X2: X-Men United give us a better movie, they gave us a better disc set, too. For starters, there is no commentary track at all. The Wachowski brothers actually have a clause in their contracts with the studio that they don't do interviews, so they sure aren't going to do a commentary track. Unfortunately, no one, not even their spokesman producer Joel Silver, spoke up.

Disc two contains four primary documentaries with some ancillary stuff as well. All of the documentaries are in full screen, Dolby two-channel format. First up is the 22-minute Preload, the behind-the-scenes making-of with on-location footage and interviews with cast and crew. Mostly they talk pre-production issues and how this movie would be so much more so from the first. There's a lot of talk about the training involved for the actors, and building the sets.

The Freeway Chase is a 30-minute look at the whole freeway chase scene. The scene was almost filmed in Akron, Ohio, the one city that would let them hijack a freeway for a ten week shoot. But it was the dead of winter and the snow was not conducive to a movie shoot, so they went to Alameda, California and built a 1.6 mile stretch of fake freeway.

Jack, The Greatest of All Time?

It's the last issue before my fifth column anniversary. I'm really excited about the exclusive that's going to be published tomorrow. I hope you will all join me to celebrate that benchmark in my journalistic career. For now, here's my two cents on Something's Gotta Give.

Something's Gotta Give Script ReviewOne of the most memorable acting icons of my youth was Jack Nicholson. I first saw him in Batman. Very rarely in history has such a villain commanded the screen like Jack. The next brilliant encounter was A Few Good Men. Another show-stealing feat from him. Finally, my favorite performance of Jack was in James L. Brooks' As Good As It Gets. That film still ranks in my top fifteen of all-time and Jack was the cornerstone of that wonderful movie. I still am a very big fan of him. I adored the screenplay for About Schmidt. Both that film and Anger Management were good roles for Jack. He picked Something's Gotta Give, a dramatic comedy, written by Nancy Meyers (What Women Want) as his next project. It took me six months to finally grab that script.

HARRY
Ahhhh... The Sweet, uncomplicated satisfaction of the younger woman. That fleeting age when everything just falls into place. It's magic time and it can render any man, anywhere -- absolutely helpless. Some say I'm an expert on The Younger woman. Guess that's 'cause I've been dating them for over forty years...

Hardcore womanizer Harry Langer (Jack Nicholson) lives by only one rule: Never date a woman that's older then 30. His latest girlfriend Marin (Amanda Peet) brings him over to her family's Hampton residence. When her divorced mother Erica (Diane Keaton) and aunt Zoe (Frances McDormand) show up unexpectedly, the four of them are forced to co-exist for the weekend. Harry suffers a mild heart attack and has to recuperate at the Hampton residence. Erica is unwillingly forced to help him. Harry slowly starts falling for Erica, even though he's breaking his own rule. But wait, it turns into a love triangle because Erica is being courted by the younger and cuter Dr. Justin Mercer (Keanu Reeves), who saved Harry's life. Who will she pick?

Without any doubts, it's one of the best screenplays I've read this year. I liked Meyer's last film, What Women Want. It didn't win me over too much but I thought it was decent. This script is a serious improvement on that film. Nancy Meyers is probably one of the most exciting female voices I've heard in a longtime. We need more great writers like her. One of the things I loved about this script is how real it sounded. That genre has been filled with over-the-top ideas and stories lately. But this flawless tale is grounded really deeply into reality. There's some spectacular moments in Something's Gotta Give that makes you wonder how much it was taken from the writer's life. For the record, Ms Meyers is divorced like her lead character Erica. What percentage of her life experience did she put into this story? I'm extremely curious about that. Finally, I simply love the conclusion of this movie. It takes place in Paris (which I adore) and it just feels like pure perfection.

ERICA
So can I ask you something Harry? What's with all the young girls? I mean, what's the story there, really?

HARRY
I just like to travel light.

Jack is the man. This is another GREAT role for him. I keep wondering, how can so many writers invent these colorful and incredible characters for him. He barely needs to act with writing like this. I watched As Good As It Gets again shortly after reading this screenplay. I could only imagine how magnificent he will be. He's on a roll.

ERICA
Okay, here's the thing. I really don't want to play the part of the uptight Nurse to your bad boy patient. If you want to have another heart attack, go ahead, it's your life but I have work to do and I don't have time to make another run to the hospital because you're filling your already clogged arteries with smoke but more importantly, I'd rather not have my house smell like a pool hall.

Nancy Meyers wrote a superb role for Diane Keaton. She's been very under the radar since 1996's The First Wives Club. I believe this role will bring her back into the forefront of her acting peers. The trailer showcased a new look for her and she looks gorgeous. She would be the perfect choice to play the mother of Ashton Kutcher in Cameron Crowe's Elisabethtown.

ZOE
No, come on, listen, here's the rub for women. Look at what we have here with you and Erica. Harry, you've been around the block a few times. right? You're what? Around 60, never been married, which, we all know, if you were a woman, would be a curse, you'd be an old maid, a spinster, blah, blah, blah... Okay, so instead of pitying you, they write articles about you, celebrate you never marrying, it makes you illusive and ungettable. You're a real catch...

My favorite supporting role in this picture is played by Frances McDormand. She's going to steal the limelight from everybody in this movie. She has an exquisite speech at the dinner table early on. It will have everybody rolling in the aisles. Probably the hardest thing to imagine for this film is Keanu Reeves playing a doctor. I'm one of his greatest fans but he looks nothing like a physician. But his character serves a purpose and judging from the trailer, it looks like it works. Amanda Peet has a first-rate part that could take her career one step further. If she can nail that character perfectly it could probably make her a future female A-lister.

I seriously believe Nancy Meyers has a shot at breaking her own record for highest grossing film directed by a woman. This film will be HUGE. It will have a strong opening weekend but the word of mouth will have it showing its legs well into Valentine's Day. It's also a strong contender for the Golden Globes' Best Comedy too. If the trailer is any indication, it's going to be a riot. It's another movie to really look forward to in December.

"Matrix" Finale Set for "Zero Hour"

"Matrix" Finale Set for "Zero Hour"

by Josh Grossberg
Oct 2, 2003, 3:20 PM PT

Look out, the Matrix really is taking over the world.

Warner Bros. has announced that in a whoa-worthy bit of synchronicity The Matrix Revolutions, the concluding chapter in the Wachowski brothers' hit sci-fi trilogy, will be released simultaneously in nearly 70 countries.

The man-versus-machine epic starring Keanu Reeves will officially hit theaters on November 5 at what Warners execs call the "zero hour", the exact same moment across the globe. That means Revolutions will open at 6 a.m. in Los Angeles, 9 a.m. in New York, 2 p.m. in London, 5 p.m. in Moscow, and 11 p.m. in Tokyo.

"It was a thought that came up a long time ago about almost a year ago, and it did not come from the Wachowskis, it actually came from inside the studio," says Veronica Kwan-Rubinek, president of international distribution at the studio.

"It was something we were thinking about even before Reloaded came out and it took a lot of coordination to make sure all the pieces were in place."

Such a release strategy has never before been attempted by Tinseltown. The closest a studio has come to doing such simultaneous, synchronized release was in May, when Fox opened X2 on the same day in 80 countries, but not at the same hour.

But Hollywood studios have been headed in this direction for some time for two reasons--a global release helps thwart piracy (which tends to be higher in those countries that have to wait the longest for the latest blockbuster) and also ups the hype factor, helping ensure studios a monster opening weekend.

"The zero hour simultaneous opening of Revolutions once again positions the Matrix films as the cutting-edge experience in motion pictures," says Dan Fellman, president of Warner's domestic distribution. "Audiences came out to see The Matrix Reloaded in record numbers, and we appreciate the enthusiasm, collaboration and support of our exhibitors in helping us bring The Matrix Revolutions to audiences on November 5."

Revolutions will also screen at selected Imax venues, the first time a major Hollywood release has ever premiered concurrently on both 35mm and the large-screen format.

According to ・er-producer Joel Silver, it wasn't until studio execs saw the success of Reloaded, which had the biggest opening weekend ever for an R-rated movie, grossing $91.8 million, that they gave the go-ahead for the "zero hour" gimmick.

"We received such an overwhelming response to Reloaded from audiences around the globe that the Wachowski brothers wanted to give our fans the chance to experience the final piece of the Matrix puzzle at the same time in every major city worldwide," Silver said. "It's an incredibly complex and exciting venture that furthers the Wachowskis' vision and underscores the trilogy's theme of integration."

The Matrix Reloaded has become the highest grossing R-rated film in history, raking in more than $734 million worldwide. The second installment's DVD, including hours of behind-the-scenes footage, a breakdown of the freeway chase, interviews with the cast and crew and a featurette on the making of The Animatrix, hits stores on October 14.

And given Revolutions supposedly wraps up the fate of Zion and offers the final showdown between Neo and his virus-like nemesis Agent Smith, movie-biz observers say the final Matrix trip will do likely even brisker box office.

Whoa, indeed.

Keanu Believe it

Heartbreaking personal tragedies seem to have turned Keanu Reeves into a sad recluse whose strange behavior rivals legendary millionaire eccentric Howard Hughes. "Keanu has become the ultimate loner," says a worried friend. "With each day he acts more bizarre."

Although the actor earned $30 million for "The

Matrix" films, he dresses in old ragged clothes and walks around in worn-out Hush Puppies shoes held together with tape.

An exec on the set of Reeves' new movie mystery, "Constantine," made a joke recently when the superstar arrived wearing the forlorn footwear, but he didn't take the hint.

"Most people would have gone out and bought a new pair of shoes after the gentle put-down," said a source on the set. "But Keanu showed up the next day wearing the same shoes."

The offbeat hunk dislikes calls and e-mails so much he refuses to own a personal computer or cell phone, sources reveal.

Reeves spends most of his time by himself and even passed his 39th birthday September 2 by eating alone at Dan Tana's restaurant in West Hollywood.

"He sat in one of the red leather booths with a bottle of red wine and a steak looking lost," said an eyewitness. "Some playmates from the Playboy mansion invited him to join their party. But he declined. He seemed so unhappy on a day when he should've been celebrating."

Friends say the string of heartbreaks that has pushed the screen idol into his own private world began after his ex-con father Sam left Keanu's mom Patricia when he was a toddler.

In the '90s the rising star was rocked again when his beloved sister Kim was diagnosed with leukemia.

A few years later, on Christmas Eve 1999, his girlfriend Jennifer Syme, pregnant with a little girl they were going to call Ava, tragically gave birth to a stillborn baby.

Distraught Jennifer plunged into a deep depression. Then, a year later, she was killed in a violent car accident on a Los Angeles street.

"Keanu was devastated," said a close friend.

He became even more withdrawn after his sister Kim's leukemia, which had been in remission, returned recently.

"Her illness pushed him over the edge," added the friend. "He's taken her to the best specialists and beautiful places like Maui and the Isle of Capri in Italy for her to recuperate."

Published on: September 29, 2003

Real time challenge for Matrix

The Matrix Revolutions is to be released at exactly the same time in cities across the world next month, according to reports.
Industry newspaper Variety says this will mean a 6am start for fans in Los Angeles, 9am in New York, 2pm in London, 5pm in Moscow and 11pm in Tokyo on November 5.

It is the first time a film has been released in this way.

Distributors Warner Brothers say it is to capitalise on the final part of the trilogy's popularity and to ward off piracy.

"The zero hour simultananeous opening of Revolutions once again positions the Matrix films as the cutting edge experience in motion pictures," said Warner Brothers spokesman Dan Fellman.

The Matrix Revolutions is the final instalment of the successful sci-fi trilogy starring Keanu Reeves and Hugo Weaving.

Large screen

The second film, The Matrix Reloaded, was a box office hit around the world despite some poor reviews and disappointment among some fans.

The Matrix Revolutions will open in 65 countries and will debut in Imax cinemas in the US on the same day as standard cinemas.

Imax Corporation, which owns the technology behind the format, struck a deal with Warner Bros to simultaneously show the film on 5 November.

It will be the first time a Hollywood blockbuster has been released in two formats at the same time for the different-sized screens.

Imax offers both 2D and Imax 3D images on curved screens up to 10 storeys high, using the latest film technology.

The Matrix Reloaded opened in Imax cinemas three weeks after its general release earlier this year.

The Matrix: Reloaded

Warner Bros. // R // $26.98 // October 14, 2003

Review by Aaron Beierle | posted October 1, 2003 | E-mail the Author | Start a Discussion

the studio initially didn't have a great deal of confidence in the success of the film, the footage that was coming out of the Australia-based production was generating massive buzz for the picture. The Wachowski Brothers were the directors and writers. I'd guess that the majority of those who had seen their first feature, the small noir thriller "Bound", could definitely see a bright feature for the two. Despite that film's small budget, their visual style was extraordinary (the "Matrix" films use several of the same crew members) and the performances were terrific. The trailer for "The Matrix", a beautifully edited and thrilling clip that didn't give away too much, made audiences stand up and take notice. The result was a film that grossed a remarkable amount for an R-rated film, finding success both domestically and worldwide.

I liked the first film, although didn't quite love it. I appreciated the well-written story, enjoyed the advanced visual effects and liked the attempt to add philosophy into the middle of a sci-fi picture that could have simply been an action-fest. However, I've never felt that last part was entirely successful: the first feature never quite smoothly integrated the philosophical aspects of its story enough, making for somewhat uneven pacing in the middle.

The success of the original feature had the studio eager to greenlight two additional pictures and certainly, this is one time where that was quite agreeable - there was obviously potential for more tales of Neo (Keanu Reeves). The second and third features, however, reportedly cost somewhere around $150m a piece, which is a large jump from the budget of the 1999 original. This invites thoughts of visual effects overload - a sequel that uses its mega-millions to throw everything at the audience in the hopes that some of it works.

Thankfully, "The Matrix Reloaded", in my opinion, is not only bigger than the first feature, but better in some ways. The philosophical aspects (not the which, but the why is a big part) that took up a large part of the middle of the first feature are integrated into the story here in a way that I felt was largely smoother. Once again, some of the philosophy gets repetitive and once again, its not terribly deep, but at least some of it is rather thought-provoking here and there.

Early in the film, we find out that the last of humanity, lead by Neo (Reeves) has been more successful than ever in freeing humans from their enslavement in the Matrix. Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne) still believes that Neo is "the one" who will lead humanity to victory in the battle against the machines. However, some of those who live in Zion (the last city that holds humanity, built underground) believe that their only way to stop the machines (who, as the story opens, are burrowing their way towards Zion) is by military force.

The first hour also holds several other issues. The love between Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss) has grown stronger. A female captain named Niobe (Jada Pinkett-Smith) re-enters Morpheus' life, although on the arm of another - one against Morpheus's belief that Neo will save them all. Neo visits the Oracle (the late Gloria Foster), who once again offers guidance under layers of philosophy. Agent Smith (Hugo Weaving) makes a return appearance, only this time, Neo has quite a few more Smiths to contend with.

The second hour largely concerns attempts to free the Keymaker, who holds the (you guessed it) key to unlocking further understanding of the Matrix. If it seems like I'm not giving much away about the story...well, I'm not. "The Matrix Reloaded" entertained and often surprised me (especially towards the end) for its 150-minute running time and it's best for viewers to find those surprises out on their own.

The film does have flaws, although I didn't quite view some of them as such. "The Matrix Reloaded" may be an instance of trying for too much with not enough time. I'm sure that there was a limit for this film's running time to ensure the most screenings per day. However, an additional 15 minutes (more or less) might have helped fill in some scenes and add some additional character moments. Personally, I was able to come to my own conclusions about sudden events, but I felt that this was a well-paced and engaging film and that I would have gladly sat through another several minutes in order to go a bit deeper into the story or characters.

Some of the subplots could have gotten more focus, and Reeves and Moss are good enough together that I would have liked their romance to have a bit more screen time. Some of the supporting characters are so well-played in their few minutes (Bellucci is phenomenal and Pinkett-Smith is quite good) that I would have liked to have seen more of them, although I suppose they're maybe featured more in the third film.

Some aspects of the first quarter of the film are rather cheesy, as well. The most noticable instance of this is a dance sequence that seems to be endless and doesn't add anything much to the story. The residents of Zion, gathered together in a cavern, are told that the machines are burrowing down into the ground towards them and that they will have to face a massive battle. What do they do in response? Prepare? Nope, dance. A dance sequence, accompanied by what might not be considered the best of techno, seems to go on for something like five minutes. To be fair, there's some cutting to Neo and Trinity doing their own thing, but the sequence didn't work for me. Although meant to a celebration of humanity, the techno backing and slow-motion didn't convey that terribly well.

The effects of the first film were revolutionary on their own, leading to an invasion of copy-cats and even a few spoofs (a "Simpsons" bit involving Bart delivering menus still remains the best of those). This time, the effects budget has been upped considerably, leading to two enormous sequences (Neo fighting a crowd of Smiths, as well as a giant highway chase sequence that's larger than I could've imagined), as well as several smaller sequences. Rather than the action largely at the beginning and end, as it was in the first picture, there's quite a bit of action (both large and small) nicely spaced out throughout the picture. I liked the choreography of the fight sequences here even more, as it seemed even more elaborate and graceful. Although some moments employ a CGI Neo, the CGI characters in this feature were more convincing than a couple of moments in "Harry Potter" and other films that have employed the occasional CGI version of a character. Once again, I liked the look of the second feature (many of the remarkable talents behind the camera, such as cinematographer Bill Pope, return again here), and appreciated the design of everything down to the smallest details.

The acting is generally good, once again. While many still continue Keanu Reeves to be a mediocre actor (and, I admit, some of the "Mad TV" spoofs where the actor opened his own acting school were simply priceless), I can't imagine a different actor in the role of Neo. Fishburne is still wonderfully commanding as Morpheus and Carrie-Anne Moss is dynamic and compelling as Trinity, although she really doesn't seem to get quite as much focus here. Jada Pinkett-Smith, Harold Perrineau Jr and Monica Bellucci all manage to make an impression in a relatively small amount of time, which makes their lack of screentime all the more disappointing. Hugo Weaving is delightful as Smith, once again bringing his dry, darkly funny delivery.

Yes, "The Matrix Reloaded" does end with a "To Be Concluded". The third - and likely final - picture will be released to theaters in November. While some have complained that it is an "abrupt" ending, I was very pleased with how it concluded this section of the story. The film does end in a way that leaves us hanging, but lets just say that its not in the middle of a terribly intense sequence. The result was an ending that was satisfying for this part, while also heightening my excitement for the next feature.

Those who did not see the first one or don't remember the details should seek out the original before seeing the sequel, as the story jumps right in with no explanation of the events of the original or much of what's happened since. Overall, I found this to be a very satisfying movie. "Reloaded" offered generally good continuation of the story, unbelievable visuals and well-choreographed action. Although not without some concerns, I was entertained throughout. Recommended.

The DVD

VIDEO: "The Matrix Reloaded" is presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen. The transfer is simply stunning, possibly aided by the fact that all of the extra material is located on a second disc, leaving the film by itself on a dual-layer disc. Sharpness and detail are exceptional - definition throughout is consistent and remarkable, with fine details nearly always clearly present.

Flaws? Well, there really aren't many, if any. A tiny bit of edge enhancement was spotted a couple times, but it was so minor and brief that the couple of instances are hardly worth mentioning. The print is in pristine condition, with not a speck or mark on it. No compression artifacts were noticed, either.

The film's unique greenish/bluish color palette is quite perfectly portrayed here, with no concerns. Black level remained rock solid, while flesh tones appeared accurate. This is certainly a first-rate transfer that will impress many.

SOUND: "The Matrix Reloaded" is presented by Warner Brothers in Dolby Digital 5.1. Since the three "Matrix" features share the same sound designer (Dane Davis, who has worked on such films as "Swordfish" and "Treasure Planet"), one can be assured that all three films share the same "vision" when it comes to the sound design. Viewers of the first film will be familiar with some of the "signature" sound effects, too.

However, "Reloaded" is certainly a much bigger, bolder experience sound-wise than the award-winning soundtrack of first film. Surrounds are put into play much more frequently and maintain a near-constant presence throughout the picture. With more action this time around, there's plenty of instances where sound effects pan around the room or ping between speakers. In fact, I appreciated hearing the film's soundtrack in the close-up environment of a home theater to hear some of the sound work that I'd missed in a large auditorium, such as the word "inevitable" coming from all sides when the multiple Agent Smiths pile on Neo during the fight.

Sound quality is certainly what one would expect; strong, deep bass accompanies both much of the sound effects and Don Davis' score. Dialogue remained clear and easily understood throughout, with all the elements well-balanced in the mix. Certainly, "Reloaded" will have an easy time becoming the new sound demo for many home theater owners.

EXTRAS: The extras in the set are included on a single-layered second disc. There is no commentary, although I suppose that's to be expected, given the fact that directors the Wachowski Brothers have expressed their desire to not explain the films, they were probably working on completion of the third film and, well, response to the somewhat sparse commentary on the first film's DVD wasn't too positive. I'd also like to thank Warner Brothers for making straightforward menus. A few studios lately have been making needlessly multi-layered/multi-leveled/plain complex menus, and this certainly could have been one of those instances.

Preloaded: This is a fairly ordinary 22-minute "making of" that does finally get going a little further into the documentary. It starts off with the obvious - all involved talk about how they signed-on happily (well, duh.) and how great it was returning to make the second feature. After all the "happy talk" is out of the way, the documentary finally starts to go into detail about the fight training that the actors had to undergo before production. After that, the piece touches on the visual effects work, storyboarding and costume design.

Matrix Unfolded: A brief, 5-minute featurette that gives a "Matrix" overview, including information on the videogame and "Animatrix" features.

Highway Chase: Clearly far-and-away the best supplement on the disc, this thirty-minute documentary follows the Wachowski brothers and the film's crew through production on the film's famed highway chase sequence. We get interviews with the visual effects supervisors, the stunt coordinators and even are taken through aspects of pre-production and planning for the scene. Then the documentary moves into production, the scariest aspect of which is certainly Carrie Anne-Moss trying to learn to ride a motorcycle good enough to do so safely without helmet for the scene. We also watch as the stretch of freeway used in the film is being built (they couldn't find a usable stretch of freeway in the US that could be shut down for the film).

Give Me An Exit: Uh, the making of the phone and Poweraide drink ads. Seriously. That's all this is.

MTV Movie Awards: The parody - starring Sean William Scott, Wanda ("I'm the Oracle, dammit.") Sykes, Justin Timberlake and a brilliant Will Farrell - that opened the MTV Movie Awards this year. Uncensored version.

Also: Promo for "Animatrix" and brief featurette on the video game. No trailer.

Final Thoughts: Some gave "Reloaded" a mixed reception, but I found it to be an entertaining continuation of the "Matrix" trilogy. The performances are quite good and certainly, the remarkable visuals reflect the increased budget the sequels were working with. As for the DVD, the extras are somewhat lackluster (the "Highway Chase" documentary being the main highlight), but the audio/video quality for the film presentation is nothing short of outstanding. Recommended. Release Date: 10/14/03.

Wanting more after sampling new Keaton-Nicholson flick

Wanting more after sampling new Keaton-Nicholson flick
Liz Smith

Originally published October 1, 2003

THE OTHER afternoon, I was lured into the glamorous Four Seasons Hotel by the queen of all PR - one Pat Kingsley, whom I call Pat Queensley - to take a look at 30 minutes of a film, Something's Gotta Give, starring Jack Nicholson and Diane Keaton. The film from writer-director Nancy Meyers also stars the wonderful Frances McDormand as Diane's sister and Keanu Reeves, who appears as a doctor from Southampton Hospital. This is the perfect role for real-life roue Jack Nicholson. Here, he plays a noncommittal man-about-young-girls who has a heart attack and lives to appreciate the finer things in life. The finer things mean the delectable, delicious and adorable Diane Keaton. (If only Diane would wear in real-life the divine, simple clothes she sports in this movie, she'd become fashion's comeback kid.)

Not having seen the entire film, here's my verdict on the scrap of it screened for me. Every woman in America who hasn't slept with Nicholson - all 13 of us - can have a fabulous, vicarious experience watching this movie of post-middle-aged romance. It's quite graphic and terribly funny.

But what if I had disliked the snippet? I suppose Ms. Queensley would have tossed me right off the balcony. Well, I would have said, "Sorry, Pat," if I had, in spite of my fear of heights. The fact is, I can't wait to see the complete Something's Gotta Give and hope to by December, when it is released.