The Matrix Resurrections

You can run computer programs over and over again; it's their nature. So I suppose from that perspective, this sequel makes sense. From a viewers perspective, I'm not sure it's quite so sensible, as it doesn't seem to break any real, new ground. (I know, I know--what is real?) And, but for the two principle stars, most of the rest of those who made the original trilogy what it was--with one exception--are missing and presumed too expensive to buy back in. That's part of the problem here: suffering via comparison, and this outing actually shoots itself in the foot--presumably in slow motion--by making the comparisons itself explicitly. Still, it's not entirely bad; just overly familiar, no longer groundbreaking, and perhaps unnecessary. On the plus side, there's a cat, so hisses are not entirely in order. Fine for a brief diversion, but not exactly the best catnip available.

The Matrix Revolutions

Almost a PURR, but it's not quite that good. The story, particularly in the early part, is too muddled; it clears itself up in the end, but not much new is added to the tableau. On more positive notes, the visuals are phenomenal (naturally), the conclusion comes with some unexpected twists, and some of the philosophy is more clearly expressed (and actually fits in the movie, giving the story's thought-provoking dimensions). And the final confrontation even evokes something of Ragnarök--a nice touch for us mythology fans. Final analysis: not great, but nothing to be ashamed of.

Memento

The moral of this story: sometimes you can't even trust yourself. That's not a bad thing to keep in mind, even if your short term memory is not on the fritz. Besides that, this one is clever enough; you almost certainly will get lost in the rewind narrative at least once, but don't sweat it. And Guy Pearce once more makes the case that he's the Aussie with the heavy-duty acting chops.

Chocolat

Cute, mostly. It gets devalued some for indecision about what it wants to be (specifically, some awkward transitions from comedy to drama), but I don't want to fall into the trap of damning due to high expectations. This is, succinctly, a good movie, and that should be enough. But not worthy of a Best Picture nominee; it must have been a slow year. (NOTE: this is the Juliette Binoche/Johnny Depp/Judi Dench movie; there's another Chocolat out there, some movie about a chick returning to Africa. That other Chocolat is boring as hell. Don't be hoodwinked.)

The Matrix Reloaded

Hard to believe the hippest movie on the planet features a hero who spends most of his time wearing a dress. Sartorial disasters aside, this installment has its moments--some entertaining, some audacious--but not enough of them. As I said years ago, there was really not much more to say after the first movie; they probably should have quit while they were ahead. And don't bother spending brain cells on the philosophical ramblings, unless you get your jollies from tautologies.